Outdoor Yoga in January, seriously?

It’s winter time, slowly but surely, temperatures are dropping here in Gozo. Stronger winds, big waves and occasional rain. So who in her or his right mind is thinking about outdoor Yoga in January? Well, me for one and I will tell you why!

This picture was taken of me last week, in the beginning of January. Yes, it was colder than in autumn, but still, the sun was shining, and we were practising yoga in a sheltered place by the sea in Qbajjar Bay. So “outside” the wind was blowing, but under the roof of this beautiful yoga place, we hardly felt any wind at all. So we started with jackets on, but after 10 minutes we were exercising in t-shirts.

Which brings me to rule number one: wear layers! For winter time in Gozo, the right yoga or fitness gear could be something like this: a) tight fitness leggings or yoga pants, with an extra pair of jogging pants if you are afraid to be cold. You won’t need them during the dynamic part, but you might appreciate the extra layer during Savasana, the relaxation part of the end of your session. Then, for the top layer: a t-shirt or dry fit shirt, a long sleeve sports shirt and a jacket. With three layers you can be absolutely sure you won’t feel cold. Oh, and socks. I do the dynamic part of the yoga barefoot, but for savasana, socks are recommended, and if you fear to get cold, you could try “yoga socks” as well for the dynamic parts. Yoga socks have a non-slip grip layer, some people like them for hygienic reasons as well.

Oh, and for Savasana: use two blankets  instead of one. It keeps you comfortable for sure!

Rule number two: stay in the sun & bring sunglasses and wear some sunscreen. Yes, that’s right, sunscreen. When sheltered from the wind and with the sun on your face, your practice could feel like in summer. Get the free vitamine D, luxuriate in the warm sun, but make sure your skin and eyes get the protection they need. At this moment I have a bit of a sunburn because of a long hike with the dog without sunscreen on my face. In January, yes!

Rule number three: bring water. You may not feel as thirsty as in summer time, but still, as we are exercising or doing yoga, you could use the rehydration. Warm tea is a good alternative.

Rule number four: just enjoy your outdoor practice! Nothing can boost your energy levels more than exercising or doing yoga outdoors. Enjoy the sound of the waves rolling in, the smell of the sea, the sun on your skin and that brilliant feeling of being alive in every cell of your body.

Want to give it a try? Check out the Schedule & rates page!