Updated April 2019.
Whistler’s active lifestyle, free-spirited community and downright soul-satisfying views make yoga a natural fit for this place. It is not uncommon to see a Downward Dog or Warrior II at the beach, on the lush grass of Whistler Olympic Plaza or on a mountain top. It is believed the original yogis, the Vedics, took deep into the woods and caves to hone their practice. But before you get the headlamp out, keep in mind the development of contemporary asanas (postures) took place much later, likely both indoors and outdoors. So it begs the questions – where is the BEST place to practice yoga?
At a Studio
Studio owners put a lot into making their space peaceful and free of distractions so that you can really tune-in and unify the body, breath and mind – the intention of yoga. Basics like a level floor and available props are just the beginning of the benefits of practicing yoga in a controlled environment. Instructors are able to communicate clearly, make adjustments and create an atmosphere using lighting, music and sometimes scents. Studios also provide a hub for community and many people enjoy having a ‘home’ studio where they feel comfortable and supported to grow.
Whistler has one yoga studio in the Village, Yogacara and the Whistler Core Climbing and Fitness Centre also offers classes. Drop-in passes are a great option for visitors.
In the Great Outdoors
A healthy yoga instructor population and more beautiful outdoor spaces than indoor studio space have given rise to a strong outdoor yoga trend in Whistler. Your senses receive a lot more input outside – making it more challenging to truly practice. While making shapes with your body is still fun, it is important to realize if you can’t tune-in with distractions present (like flying Frisbees or friendly dogs) you can open yourself up to potential injury. Especially if the ol’ ego makes an appearance, encouraging you to unsafely push your limits or rush through your practice self-consciously.
At the same time, heightened senses and aligning with nature can greatly enhance your experience. The key to practicing outdoors is picking your location (and time) carefully and starting with shorter sequences until your focus improves. There is nothing like breathing in the fresh mountain air during pranayama or feeling the grounding energy of the earth beneath your feet. Locals’ favourite outdoor yoga spots include Alpha Lake, on-mountain along the snow walls of an ancient glacier and by the Fitzsimmons Creek at Rebagilati Park. For those who love the calming effect of water, stand up paddleboard yoga or SUP Yoga is a totally unique way to practice that can be done on any of Whistler’s lakes, with classes offered by Backroads Whistler, The Adventure Group and Whistler Eco Tours all summer long.
At a Festival or Event
Inspiring backdrop? Check. World-class instructors? Yep. Warm fuzzies from the energy of the crowd? Guaranteed. Attending a yoga event is a one of a kind experience, and can be a great introduction to practicing outdoors. It also gives you the chance to learn from instructors you wouldn’t otherwise have the chance to.
Yoga’s history is steeped in myth and mystery and we may never determine the BEST place to practice but the gurus have always made one thing clear – it is the intention behind your practice that counts. However or wherever you practice, there is no ‘bad’ yoga!
If you want to immerse yourself in yoga in Whistler – you can find accommodation and more at Whistler.com.
