Walnut Canyon Yoga

There are many ways to use public land to promote health and wellness. Many of these rich, outdoor spaces invite sensations of awe, curiosity, and deep connection, but incorporating intentional movements into the experience allows for an opportunity to connect back inward.Yoga provides an excellent opportunity to increase strength, mindfulness, and flexibility through movement. Many animals and plants also make shapes. Their bodies and our bodies are all different, and we invite you to always listen to the wisdom of your individual body, only making shapes that benefit you. We hope you enjoy exploring some of these nature-inspired movements with us.

Elk Pose

NPS / Cass Hall

Elk Pose

Did you know that elk grow a new set of antlers every year? When they first grow in Spring, they're covered in a coating called "velvet." They become solid bone by the end of Summer, in preparation for breeding season in Fall. In this shape, there is an invitation to imagine your palms as a new set of elk antlers, growing in Spring.

Coyote Pose

NPS / Cass Hall

Coyote Pose

Coyotes are very vocal, in fact their scientific name (Canis latrans) means "barking dog." They are also fast runners, normally cruising at around 25-30 mph. As you press the forearms into the mat and lift the head, you may imagine letting out a howl into the night.

Canyon Tree Frog Pose

NPS / Cass Hall

Canyon Tree Frog Pose

Canyon Tree Frogs are the most commonly found amphibian at Walnut Canyon. They are tiny (about 2 inches), and like to hang out near standing water at the bottom of the canyon. They munch on small invertebrates, such as insects. What would it be like to be an amphibian in a place with so little water?

Mule Deer Pose

NPS / Cass Hall

Mule Deer Pose

What would it be like to have ears that are 3/4 the length of your head? Imagining for a moment how well you'd be able to hear other animals approaching in the forest. Mule Deer enjoy foraging for sticks, twigs, and plants on the rim of Walnut Canyon. In this shape, there is an invitation to imagine the weight of your antlers as your draw your chin up from your chest.

Bobcat Pose

NPS / Cass Hall

Bobcat Pose

Bobcats are solitary, small predators. They are most active at twilight (right after the sun sets, or right before it rises). They rely mostly on the element of surprise as a hunting tactic, watching and stalking their prey thoughtfully before ambushing it. At Walnut Canyon, their primary food sources are small mammals, like rabbits. As you press your palms into the mat, you may imagine your fingertips as retractable feline claws.