Forest preserve yoga classes help connect people to nature

Visitors can relax and rejuvenate while connecting to nature with the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County during "Yoga: Sun Salutations for Weekend Warriors" at the scenic overlook at Greene Valley Forest Preserve in Naperville.

Sitting in a natural area for five minutes improves mood and reduces stress. Connecting with nature for one hour improves memory and 10 minutes of sunshine can help fight osteoporosis.

Here's a look at opportunities to practice yoga in the preserves:

• Yoga: Sun Salutations for Weekend Warriors. Soak in the surroundings at the top of the scenic overlook while doing sun salutations and warrior poses. One hour classes meet at 8 a.m. Saturdays, Aug. 18 and Sept. 15, at Greene Valley. For ages 18 and older. Cost: $10 per person. Register online at dupageforest.org or call (630) 850-8110.

• Yoga: Senior Strength for Bone Health. Learn safe yoga practices and ways to move through everyday chores while improving flexibility and increasing bone density. One-hour classes begin at 10 a.m. Tuesdays, Aug. 14 and Sept. 11, in Fullersburg Woods. For ages 50 and older. Cost: $10. Register online at dupageforest.org or call (630) 850-8110.

• Shinrin-Yoku. Deepen your relationship with nature and open your senses to the physical and mental health benefits of the outdoors known as "Shinrin-yoku" on a relaxing, therapeutic guided walk at sunrise or sunset. One-hour program offered at 9 a.m. Sunday, Aug. 19, at Fullersburg Woods; and 6 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 29, at Greene Valley. For ages 18 and older. Cost: $10 per person. Register online at dupageforest.org or call (630) 850-8110.

• Poetic Prompts to Mindfulness. Soak in the bucolic beauty of Kline Creek Farm at dusk as you muse on poems of nature, life and self by Walt Whitman, Emily Dickinson, Li Po, Rumi and others in an hourlong program at 6 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 2, at Kline Creek Farm. For ages 18 and older. Free. Register online at dupageforest.org or call (630) 876-5900.

• Mindful Nature Walking for Seniors. Experience the healing benefits of nature on a relaxing 1-mile (or shorter) guided walk beginning at 1:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 6, in York Woods. Get tips on mindfulness and tidbits about nature. The trail can accommodate people with walkers, canes and wheelchairs. For ages 60 and older. Free. Register online at dupageforest.org or call (630) 933-7248.

For information, call (630) 933-7200 or visit dupageforest.org.