There’s something about time spent outside that quiets our minds, something that's even more important of late.
Spending time out in nature, meditating, taking a wellness-focused walk, or doing yoga outside only adds to the relaxation component. Here are some ways to take a break from our noisy lives and soak up nature while practicing self-care.
Nature as therapy
The City of Fort Collins manages more than 50 natural areas encompassing over 40,000 acres and 100 miles of trails. The natural areas are the traditional lands of the Ute, Cheyenne, and Arapahoe Native American tribes. Visiting these natural areas can be therapeutic and relaxing. Fort Collins natural areas are generally open from 5 a.m. until 11 p.m. Bobcat Ridge, Gateway, Reservoir Ridge, and Soapstone Prairie natural areas, however, are open dawn to dusk.
A great resource for an outdoor activity calendar while visiting Fort Collins is the event calendar. Here you will find activities occurring all summer long and details for registration.
Outdoor Yoga and Tai Chi
Yoga at The OBC Wine Project
On select Saturday mornings, you can wake up and look forward to attending an outdoor yoga class at The OBC Wine Project in partnership with Core Power Yoga. This class is beginner-friendly and takes place from 10:30 AM-2 PM featuring a mimosa bar, Jersey Cowboy food truck and other rotating pop up shops.
Baby Goat Yoga at The Old Town Square
Come find community and experience this cuteness overload while we playfully challenge our focus in an all levels beginner flow class. We'll be surrounded by the cutest baby goats bouncing and bleating around!
Tai Chi and Forest Bathing in The Gardens
Tai Chi, often called meditation in motion, is a traditional Chinese practice that benefits the heart, bones, nerves, muscles, immune system, and the mind. Local Tai Chi practitioner and instructor, Min Fan, will teach the outdoor Tai Chi in The Gardens, suitable for all levels. Classes are subject to cancellation if there is inclement weather. Tai Chi classes take place Saturdays.
Forest Bathing is based on the Japanese practice of “Shinrin Yoku”. It is a multi-sensorial, nature mindfulness experience that uses grounding exercises to connect with nature leaving you refreshed and relaxed. During this experience, you will be guided mindfully around The Gardens and invited to unplug, engage your senses, talk less and listen more. Take a quiet, contemplative walk that integrates gratitude, reflection, and creativity.
Click here to learn more and register for any of the classes.
