Last Updated on February 5, 2025 by Jeremy

Introduction: Yoga Beyond the Studio

Yoga is one of those practices that seems to belong in nature. Whether it’s practiced on a remote beach, deep in the forest, or in the middle of a vast desert, there’s something about combining movement, breath, and the outdoors that just makes sense.

While I haven’t personally practiced yoga, I’ve traveled enough to see its appeal in some of the world’s most breathtaking landscapes. From the sandy beaches of Costa Rica to the red rock energy vortexes of Sedona, many travelers seek out outdoor yoga destinations for both relaxation and self-discovery.

If you’re looking for beginner-friendly yoga poses and the best places to practice them in nature, this guide will point you in the right direction.

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Best Outdoor Yoga Destinations

Looking to take your yoga practice outside the studio? These destinations are known for their scenic beauty, peaceful environments, and immersive yoga retreats.

🌿 Costa Rica – Jungle & Beach Yoga

• Costa Rica is one of the world’s top destinations for yoga retreats.
• Popular spots: Nosara, Santa Teresa, Uvita.
• Viator offers beachfront yoga experiences with jungle backdrops.

🏜️ Sedona, Arizona – Yoga Among Energy Vortexes

• Sedona’s stunning desert landscapes and “energy vortexes” make it a spiritual hub for yogis.
• Many travelers visit for hiking-yoga tours that combine movement with nature.

🏝️ Hawaii – Volcanic Energy & Ocean Breeze Yoga

• Whether it’s sunrise yoga on Maui’s beaches or meditative stretching near an active volcano, Hawaii blends adventure and relaxation.
• Expedia features eco-resorts with dedicated yoga spaces.

🌾 Bali, Indonesia – The World’s Yoga Capital

• Bali is home to some of the most famous yoga retreats on the planet.
• The Ubud rice terraces and Canggu beaches are among the most popular outdoor yoga spots.

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6 Beginner Yoga Poses to Connect with Nature

Even as a non-yogi, it’s easy to see how these simple poses can enhance an outdoor experience. Whether it’s sun salutations on a beach or a tree pose among actual trees, these beginner-friendly movements help connect the body with the natural world.

1. Sun Salutations (Surya Namaskar) – Welcoming the Sunrise

☀ Best done in: Costa Rican beaches, Bali rice terraces, Sedona red rocks.
🌿 Why? Practicing in direct sunlight enhances focus, breathing, and energy.

🧘 How to do it:

1. Stand tall, hands in prayer.
2. Inhale, reach arms toward the sky.
3. Exhale, fold forward.
4. Flow through plank, cobra, and downward dog.

👉 Where to try it: Many beach yoga retreats start with morning sun salutations.

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2. Child’s Pose (Balasana) – Surrender to the Earth

🌎 Best done in: Forest retreats, beside a river, grassy fields.
🌿 Why? This pose encourages grounding and deep relaxation.

🧘 How to do it:

1. Kneel, sit back on heels, extend arms forward.
2. Rest forehead on the ground.
3. Focus on breathing deeply and relaxing.

👉 Where to try it: Forest meditation retreats in B.C. or Hawaii.

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3. Warrior Pose (Virabhadrasana) – Strength in the Elements

💪 Best done in: Mountains, open meadows, or desert landscapes.
🌿 Why? Warrior pose symbolizes resilience and connection to the earth.

🧘 How to do it:

1. Stand with feet wide apart.
2. Extend arms, bend one knee into a lunge.
3. Feel stability from the ground beneath you.

👉 Where to try it: Yoga-hiking experiences in Arizona or Peru.

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4. Tree Pose (Vrikshasana) – Balance Like a Forest

🌳 Best done in: Forests or jungle settings.
🌿 Why? Practicing this pose near actual trees enhances balance and focus.

🧘 How to do it:

1. Stand tall, shift weight onto one leg.
2. Place the sole of the opposite foot on your thigh.
3. Extend arms overhead like branches reaching for the sky.

👉 Where to try it: Jungle retreats in Costa Rica or Thailand.

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5. Cobra Pose (Bhujangasana) – Embracing Transformation

🐍 Best done in: Beach settings, desert environments.
🌿 Why? This pose symbolizes renewal, like nature’s constant transformation.

🧘 How to do it:

1. Lie on your stomach, hands under shoulders.
2. Inhale, press into palms, lifting your chest.
3. Exhale, release back down.

👉 Where to try it: Beach yoga classes in Bali or Hawaii.

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6. Savasana (Corpse Pose) – The Ultimate Nature Connection

🌅 Best done in: A quiet meadow, a mountaintop, or beside an ocean.
🌿 Why? Savasana allows full-body relaxation and connection with surroundings.

🧘 How to do it:

1. Lie on your back, arms open, palms up.
2. Close your eyes, listen to the sounds of nature.
3. Let go of tension and focus on deep breathing.

👉 Where to try it: Meditation-focused retreats in Indonesia, Costa Rica, or Mexico.

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Final Thoughts: Transform Your Yoga Practice with Nature & Travel

Outdoor yoga isn’t just a trend—it’s a way to deepen your connection with both yourself and the natural world. If you’ve ever wanted to take your practice beyond the walls of a studio, these destinations and beginner poses are the perfect place to start.

Ready to take your yoga beyond the mat?
🌿 Book a yoga retreat through Viator or Expedia.
🌍 Explore top-rated eco-resorts designed for outdoor yoga.
🧘 Invest in a lightweight travel yoga mat.

Where will your yoga journey take you next?