Yoga with horses and in botanical parks

Two outdoor yoga classes are coming up this weekend but they are not just any alfresco yoga sessions as both will be held in rather unusual and enchanting locations. On Friday, the In the Horse Club will host a relaxing hatha yoga evening in the company of horses. The horse riding school in Pano Deftera is collaborating with Carpe Diem events and certified yoga instructor Darina Savchenko to bring a calming yoga class surrounded by nature and the horses of the riding centre.

“Being around horses brings calmness,” say organisers, “yoga movement on hay bales will ground you and release stress and tension from your body. Bringing nature into your everyday life can benefit both your mental and physical wellbeing, like exercising outdoors or being around animals can have many positive effects.”

A mood-booster is one of them as well as making a deeper connection with nature. “It will be an experience you will always remember,” they add. The class will start at 6.45pm and last for an hour. After the yoga flow participants can enjoy a beautiful view with refreshing drinks. As there is limited availability, payment and bookings should be made in advance via message on the riding school’s Facebook page (@inthehorseclub) or by messaging Darina Savchenko.

Saturday will bring another outdoor yoga class, this one in the charming forest of CyHerbia Botanical Park. The class will start at 10am and it will be a dynamic flow of yoga connecting movement with the breath. The yoga practice will be based on the Ashtanga Primary Series sequence helping participants discover the fundamental principles of yoga. As such, the class will include a victorious breathing technique, a practice of standing and sitting postures as well as having fun exploring the world upside-down.

Led by yoga teacher, personal trainer and certified nutrition coach Nora Meldere, her yoga flow is suitable for all fitness levels with beginners being especially celebrated. After the class ends at 11.30am, yogis will be offered refreshments and an exploration of the botanical gardens.

Outdoor Yoga Around Horses

One-hour hatha yoga by Darina Savchenko surrounded by horses. June 11. 6.45pm-8pm. In the Horse Club, Pano Deftera. €10. Tel: 97-789752

Yoga in Cyherbia Botanical Park

Outdoor yoga flow with Nora followed by an exploration of the botanical gardens. June 12. 9.45am-11.30am. €25 including entrance to the park. Bookings at norameldere.lv/contact-me