Maintaing habits while you are traveling can be difficult, and your yoga practice is no exception. If you’re anything like me, the absence of a regular schedule can wreak havoc on even your best intentions. Add sightseeing, long travel days, and time changes into the equation, and it can be easy to let days, or even weeks, go by without getting your namaste on.
Once you reach that point, it can be difficult to roll out your mat again. To paraphrase Newton’s First Law of Motion, a body at rest tends to remain at rest.
So what can a traveler do to recharge her motivation for yoga?
Find a class.
There’s a reason that group fitness works. Practicing with other people is motivating, and you’re less likely to abandon the session after a few sun salutations if you’ve paid for a class. If you need help locating a studio abroad, check out my previous article for tips on finding classes.
Watch a virtual class.
Even if you can’t make it to a local class, a virtual class can help you get back in the swing of things by following a pre-defined routine. You can use a streaming service, like YogaGlo or YogaWorks, or a more traditional video. While I’m traveling, I keep a Kathryn Budig Aim True video loaded on my computer.
Organize a small group.
If you’re traveling with other people or staying social, like a hostel or resort, try to organize a small group of other yoga enthusiasts. You’ll get some of the same moral support benefits as attending a class.
Reach for some digital inspiration.
Sometimes all you need is a little digital inspiration. Scroll through healthy living Twitter or Instagram accounts for motivation. In order to avoid getting sidetracked, create a special Twitter list for such a purpose.
Image Credit: David Urbanke