Daily time outside is my life line. Whether moments or minutes, noticing the details of nature around me slows my breathing, increases my gratitude, and reduces my stress. Plus, it's FREE.
So where does yoga come in? I wish I could say I am on my mat every morning with the sunrise. On rare occasions that happens. But for me, daily time in nature and yoga - whenever I make it to my mat - go together as essential components to my well being.
I made time to learn yoga just as I was getting my business off the ground and writing my first book, 15 Minutes Outside: 365 Ways to Get Out of the House and Connect with Your Kids. I wanted to share with the world how a New Year's challenge to myself to get outside every day with my family had brought us closer together and improved our well being.
My yoga teacher, Peg Mulqueen, pushed me to my edge every time I was on my mat. With every yoga practice, my comfort zone stretched a little further. The growth that happened off my mat too mirrored the personal strides I was making in yoga. I was more easily able to kick my fears to the curb and reach for what was important to me no matter how seemingly big and scary.
Since learning yoga and encouraging all families to take the fifteen minutes outside challenge, nature and yoga are still my sanctuary to reflect and renew in any moment. They are available to me every day if I make a choice to make time for them. I've watched my kiddos grow from tots into teens who still invite me to go outside (and I'll keep inviting them to yoga too until they say yes).
I am grateful every day for the gift time outside and yoga continue to bring into my daily life, and the immediate retreat they afford me in the ups and downs of life.
About Rebecca P. Cohen
Rebecca P. Cohen believes time outside transforms our lives for the better. Rebecca has worked with over 6,000 children around the world helping them make outdoor connections for a healthier life.
Rebecca is author of 15 Minutes Outside: 365 Ways to Get Out of the House and Connect with Your Kids, the children's series PJ's Backyard Adventures, and creator of Rebecca Plants Curiosity Cards available for iPhone and on Google Play. She is also host of the video series, Get Out of the House, which shows fun ideas for time outside in every season. For Rebecca's inspiring blog and free downloads, visit BeOutsideAndGrow.com
Book Trailers
Fifteen Minutes Outside, PJ’s Backyard Adventures
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