Tree Hugging Yoga was created by Carrie during the COVID-19 pandemic. During COVID-19, we experienced a lack of physical touch between humans as we had to social distance, stay 6 feet apart and wear masks when around each other. This led people to have many feelings of isolation, depression, and loneliness.
Carrie researched what ways would be helpful to bring healing and connection to our communities. Having always loved trees and yoga, and the feelings of wholeness and oneness she felt when among trees, she created Tree Hugging Yoga, combining two of her favorite pastimes! The research showed that hugging a tree increases levels of the hormone oxytocin which in turn helps us feel calmer and helps us to emotionally bond. Serotonin and dopamine are also released, making us feel happier!
Tree Hugging Yoga is held outdoors, among the trees in various parks and public lands in the Twin Cities. We will connect with the trees for support in our postures, making more difficult postures accessible to our bodies. Not only is Tree Hugging Yoga helpful to our emotional well-being, but it is also nurturing to our physical bodies!
