Finding Inspiration by the Waves: How the Beach Fuels My Yoga and Meditation Practice as a Busy Mum
As a busy mum juggling family, work, and personal responsibilities, finding moments of tranquility and inspiration can be challenging. For me, the beach has always been a sanctuary—a place where I can reconnect with myself and find the peace I need to thrive in my yoga practice, meditation, and business.
Growing up in Sweden, the beach has always been a central part of my life. Living in Malmo, Sweden the ocean is nearby, and you can feel the power throughout all the seasons of the year. The ocean gives me freedom a place where I can breathe and regain my energy when times are hectic. No matter what time of year it is the ocean, the sounds and the atmosphere around it that brings peace to my soul and gives me clarity on the big questions in life. I have fond memories of spending all my childhood summers at our family beach house. Packing the car as soon as school had finished and there, I was at the beach all summer spending time with my family, cousins and grandmother. Cycling down to the beach as soon as I had breakfast and spending all day swimming and having fun with my friends and family. Only home to eat and then down again. We also had evening swims and coming home to have tea and sandwiches afterwards was the highlight of the day. These memories are so special to me and something that I cherish in my heart forever.
The Beach: A Source of Serenity
There's something incredibly calming about the sound of waves crashing against the shore, the feel of sand beneath my feet, and the salty breeze on my skin. These sensory experiences ground me, providing a perfect backdrop for my yoga and meditation routines. The beach offers a natural, serene environment that helps me clear my mind, focus on my breath, and deepen my practice. It’s also a way to connect with my roots and my childhood memories wherever I am in the world. Australia offers some great beaches, although a bit further away from my home than usual, it’s a wonderful way to go and regain the energy after a busy week.
Yoga by the Shore
Practicing yoga on the beach is an entirely different experience compared to being indoors. The uneven surface of the sand challenges my balance, engaging my muscles in new ways. The vast horizon inspires me to stretch further, breathe deeper, and truly be present in the moment. The beach's natural beauty enhances my practice, making each session feel like a mini retreat. Doing yoga at the beach feels like a very sensory experience and more intense than an at home practice. I feel more connected to my yoga, and it becomes like a meditation as you flow through each asana. The sun and wind enhance the feeling of energy, peace and empowerment. You will get the important Vitamin D kick from the sun which is essential for overall wellbeing and bone health. The fresh salty sea air is cleansing, invigorating and enhance your breathing making you feel more alive and energised.
Tips for practicing at the beach
Choose the right time – early mornings or late afternoons, so you avoid the strong sun
Stay hydrated – ensure you drink plenty of water before and after your session
Embrace the elements – be prepared for the sun, wind and the uneven sand, adapt your practice accordingly.
Bring essentials – sunscreen, water, sunglasses and a hat can make it more comfortable and safer.
Listen to your body – the beach is a different environment than your usual studio or at home so pay attention to how you feel and change your practiced to suit.
Kajsa’s beach practice
Start your practice with some gentle stretches and include some breathing exercises to tune into your body and surroundings to ground yourself.
Sun salutations – flow through a few sun salutations syncing your body with the rhythm of the waves.
Standing poses – practice grounding poses Warrior II, Tree Pose, and Triangle Pose, feeling the sand beneath your feet.
Balancing poses – this can be a challenge when on the beach but it’s a great way to stabalise and strengthen your muscles. Try half-moon or dancer’s pose.
Seated poses – move to a seated position with a seated forward bend and butterfly pose, feel the sand supporting you.
Cool down – lay down in savasana feel the sun on your body and listen to the ocean sounds.
Meditation and Mindfulness
Meditating by the ocean allows me to tune into nature's rhythms. The consistent ebb and flow of the tide mirrors the natural flow of my breath, helping me to stay mindful and focused. This practice not only enhances my personal well-being but also inspires new ideas and perspectives for my business. It reminds me of the importance of staying grounded and present, even amidst the chaos of everyday life. As mum the beach is a way for me to relax and build my strength and balance to fuel my body, mind and soul. I want to teach my daughter that you need to look after yourself and find your balance in life to ensure you are healthy and happy. If you are a good role model for your kids, they are more likely to feel calmer and at ease in their life too as you create an environment that is more peaceful.
Inspiration for My Business
As a mum and entrepreneur, my time at the beach fuels my creativity and motivation. The tranquillity and inspiration I find there directly translate into my work, whether I'm designing a new yoga class, writing content, or strategising for my business. The beach has inspired me when creating my business both when it comes to the colours but also the imagery and the feeling I want to create to my followers and clients. I want to provide a sense of calm and empowerment that the ocean symbolises to me. The beach is a reminder of the balance I strive for—between work, family, and self-care. This is something that I want to provide to other busy mums that often neglect their own wellbeing to look after their family’s best. It should be a place to connect with other likeminded mums and create a community of people that can support each other.
The beach is more than just a place to relax; it's a vital source of inspiration and serenity that enhances my yoga practice, meditation, and overall approach to life. As a busy mum, these moments of connection with nature are essential, helping me to stay balanced, focused, and inspired in my daily life and in my business. I encourage other mums to find their own sanctuaries, whether it's the beach or another special place, to nurture their well-being and fuel their passions. It’s important to follow your dreams and desires and listen to your inner voice of how you want to live your life. Don’t wait start today!
