Yoga Conference Tips
I am very excited about leaving for Colorado, and full of anticipatory energy. Yoga conferences can provide a multitude of benefits for any yogi: They're great places to meet in sangha (community) with folks on a similar path *and* they're wonderful opportunities to taste a style of practice that is out of your usual practice routine. Ultimately, they're places to connect deeply to your heart while stretching your hamstrings.
Here are a few simple tips that can help you make the most of your experience. We have written about this before (tip # 1... don't forget your mat).
1. Be weather aware. If your conference is in Miami bring sun-screen. If you are going to Boston, know that the weather changes a lot. If you are coming to Colorado, the weather forcast says be prepared for warm days and cold nights. When travelling in the mountains, it is always a good idea to be ready for changable weather. Multiple layers of clothes can be one way to be ready.
2. Stay hydrated. Drink an appropriate amount of water. The Colorado Conference is at 8010 feet above sea level. Altitude can play a factor in your enjoyment. Drinking lots of water is the best way to avoid getting sick. Thinking about the life supporting nature of water can also deepen your yoga practice. Bring a canteen and fill up on the delicious mountain water to avoid contributing to the plastic-bottle waste stream.
3. Take time out to browse. It is really a lot of fun to walk through the bookstore and the marketplace. Save up a little shopping money before you go, and then cut yourself loose on the cool organic-cotton yoga pants, nifty hemp shirts, or deeply philosophical books.
4. Smile. Take a deep breath and drink in all the good vibes. Look around and notice all the other smiling faces. Know that you are in the right place at the right time.
If you've been to a yoga conference or retreat and have tips to share, send me an email and I will do my best to add it here.
