One of the biggest criticisms Youtube star and author JP Sears has about Boulder is that we don’t do enough public yoga. While he was joking (maybe?) (maybe not), I think he’s onto something.
Not that yoga was designed by ancient wise ones to enhance our Insta streams, or that we should seek out the most prominent location in every city we visit to show off our sweet flow.
But that there is some value in community.
Lately, I’ve been posting more videos of my own fitness endeavors on social media. In the past, I was hesitant because I didn’t want to either A) look ignorant or B) look arrogant. But when I started sharing, I noticed more of my friends began sharing, too. And it created a tiny plume of inspiration and support.
Social media contains the power to do great things, to create movements and even change the world, yet we mostly use it for tiny, mindless things. In that, I guess, social media is a curious reflection of how we use our minds.
While PDY (public displays of yoga) can be annoying, they can also unite, inspire and spread peace. And if someone thinks your yogagram is ignorant or arrogant, perhaps that says more about them than it does about your sun salutation.
If you’re interested in more creative ways to do yoga in public, on my Boulder bucket list this year is Yoga in the Dome: a yoga class in the Fiske Planetarium at 10 a.m. on Sundays. Participants do a rejuvenating Yin Yoga class with the magical, 360-degree backdrop of a nature video.
Yes, you could just do yoga outside in the park for a real 360-degree nature immersion. But there, you won’t have art and music by Colorado artist and musician Sam Stevens. And you can’t fly through deserts, forests and mountains. Although if you can, you’d better Instagram it like now.
Another creative yoga class: Rainforest Yoga at the Butterfly Pavilion, just a short drive east in Westminster. Do yoga in the butterfly habitat 8 a.m. Saturday.
A more relaxing option is Yoga Storytime at 4 p.m. on Thursdays. This kids’ yoga class at the George Reynolds Branch of the Boulder Public Library is free. Kids age 3 and older will dance, read and find zen in guided postures.
Not feeling flexy? There’s plenty of off-the-mat fun in Boulder this week.
Plant Night at West Flanders. Here’s another item on my personal Boulder bucket list. At 7 p.m. on Thursday, head to the West Flanders brewery for a free class with a master gardener. You’ll learn how to make your own tabletop garden, while you sip cold beer.
Face Vocal Band at the Dickens. Face is one of Boulder County’s most popular bands and one of the most legendary a cappella groups in the world. Face never puts on a bad show. Catch the band 6:30 p.m. at the Dickens Opera House in Longmont.
Adult Coloring at Settembre Cellars. If plants and beer aren’t your thing, maybe coloring books and wine are. All afternoon (1-6 p.m. Sunday), pony up $12 for a glass of wine, coloring sheet and pencils. Color away in the tasting room.
