Salty Air and Sun Salutations
The blissful benefits of practising yoga by the sea
There’s something truly magic about rolling out your mat by the ocean as it stretches out before you and the salty breeze brushing your skin. If you’ve ever practised yoga by the sea, you’ll know it’s a whole different vibe. And if you haven’t tried it yet—my friend, you’re in for a treat.
In Australia we’re lucky to be spoilt for choice when it comes to stunning coastal spots. Whether it’s a quiet sunrise session on the beach or a breezy afternoon flow by the cliffs, practising yoga by the ocean isn’t just beautiful and powerful — it’s incredibly good for you too.
1. Natural Stress Relief
There’s no better remedy for a frazzled mind than the sound of waves crashing and the scent of the sea. The ocean has a calming effect on our nervous system, helping us to drop into our practice more easily. It’s like Mother Nature’s version of savasana—soothing, grounding, and deeply relaxing. And if you’re practicing to an incredible sunrise…. well it’s a whole other level of awe - and finding moments of awe in your life?… well that’s a whole other blog!
2. Boosts Your Breath & Energy with Negative Ions
One of the biggest perks of being near the ocean is something you can’t see but definitely feel: negative ions. These are tiny, naturally occurring molecules that are abundant in sea air, especially where waves crash and water moves.
Negative ions are believed to:
Help increase oxygen flow to the brain
Improve mental clarity and alertness
Boost serotonin levels (hello, happy hormones!)
Support deeper, more relaxed breathing
When you combine yoga with these natural mood-lifters, it’s like giving your body and mind a big, salty recharge. The result? You’ll feel more energised, more centred, and genuinely uplifted.
3. Connects You to Nature
There’s something incredibly grounding about having your bare feet in the sand, feeling the warmth of the sun on your skin, and tuning into the rhythm of the tides. Yoga is all about connection—body, mind, spirit—and nature brings that connection to life in the most powerful way.
4. Improves Balance and Strength
Practising on uneven ground like sand challenges your stability in all the best ways. It activates your core, improves proprioception (your body’s sense of positioning), and makes even the simplest poses feel fresh and engaging. Down dog in the dunes? Yes please.
5. Vitamin D Hit
Soaking up some sunshine (with a bit of SPF, of course) boosts your Vitamin D levels, which is essential for bone health, mood regulation, and immune function. A little outdoor yoga session can go a long way—just don’t forget your hat and water bottle!
6. It's a Mood-Lifter
Between the movement, the natural beauty, the fresh air, and the effects of those amazing negative ions, you’ll walk away from your seaside yoga session feeling lighter, brighter, and more connected. It’s like pressing a reset button for your soul.
Final Thoughts
Yoga by the sea is more than just a pretty backdrop—it’s a full-body, full-spirit experience that taps into the healing power of nature. So next time you feel the call of the coast, pack your mat, kick off your thongs, and let the ocean be your studio.
See you by the sea shore 🧘♀️🌊
Shel x