Calling all yogis: These are the best places to say 'namaste'

Yoga in Bali. (Shutterstock)

June 21 is a big day. It’s the first day of summer in the Northern Hemisphere, National Indigenous Day in Canada, World Giraffe Day, and a whole lot of other random days because people love to make days about things.

But for the yogi world, June 21 is significant because it is… say it with us… “Ooooommmmm”… International Day of Yoga.

Yoga is an all-encompassing practice for the mind, body, and soul. It strengthens and tones muscles, increases flexibility, provides peace of mind, improves cardio and circulatory health, as well as respiration, energy, vitality, metabolism, and the list goes on.

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Any traveller knows that sometimes being on the road can take a toll on your health, and setting aside some time to reap the benefits of yoga can be the best thing you can do for yourself.

There are plenty of destinations around the world offering incredible yoga settings, mindful retreats, and cutting edge classes. Or you can just pull up a piece of land and practice sun salutations anywhere you like — the world of yoga has no borders.

Here are some of the most serene, motivating, spiritual, and overall best places to practice yoga across the globe.

Ubud, Bali

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A post shared by The Yoga Barn, Bali (@theyogabarn) on Dec 6, 2018 at 8:46pm PST

It’s no surprise that the remote jungles of Bali make a great backdrop for peaceful yoga practice. Since spirituality is so prominent many places in Bali, it is a prime spot for yoga retreats. Ubud is considered a yoga Mecca, with the tranquil Yoga Barn being one of the most well-known yoga studios in the world.

Take a look at our Bali Travel Guides, including where to eat, where to drink, things to do, a lay of the land, and all the Instagram inspiration for this serene land.

Rishikesh, India

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In the foothills of the Himalayas lies Rishikesh: the birthplace of yoga. The area is home to many temples and ashrams where people come from near and far to study yoga and meditation. Between the holy river and the traffic-free, alcohol-free, vegetarian enclave on the outskirts of the city, it will be near impossible to leave here without an altered sense of spirituality.

Take a look at our tips for a smooth and rewarding trip to India to enhance your experience.

Vancouver, Canada

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You know you’re a true a Vancouverite when you’re walking to your yoga class in your lulus with a green juice. Boutique fitness classes are always popping up in Vancouver, but as the home of world-renowned yoga brand lululemon, yoga is one activity that’s not to be missed. With its fresh air, mountainous backdrop, and ocean breeze, the city is all about keeping fit and healthy. There are a variety of yoga studios to choose from, and in the summer you can even join in on the free outdoor yoga classes.

Check out our Vancouver Travel Guides for where to eat, where to drink, things to do, and a neighbourhood guide for this modern city.

Christ Church, Barbados

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There is no better background music than the sound of crashing waves, and you might as well go to the site of some of the most beautiful ocean waves while you’re at it. The picture-perfect paradise of Barbados has plenty of spots to unwind for some much-needed R&R, and is a perfect getaway destination to focus on your health and wellness. Check for classes at Ocean Spray Beach Apartments for the most peaceful oceanside yoga pavilion.

Costa Rica

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With lush rainforests, serene beaches, volcanic backdrops, and rushing waterfalls, it’s no wonder Costa Rica is one of the top destinations in the world for a “find yourself” retreat. Yogis are flocking to namaste in these views, and you can easily find a peaceful patch of paradise just for yourself. If you’re lucky, you might even share it with a sloth!

New York, USA

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All cool things start in New York (just ask any New Yorker and they’ll be sure to tell you) so you better believe there are a wide variety of cutting edge yoga offerings to choose from. Try out a boutique yoga class like Y7, which is candlelit hot yoga to hip hop music, or escape the hustle and bustle of the city and practice your poses in Central Park.

Check out our New York Travel Guides for where to eat, where to drink, things to do, a neighbourhood guide, and Instagram inspiration for the city that never sleeps.

Jinja, Uganda

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Jinja is known as the adventure capital of East Africa, and offers everything from white water rafting to kayaking to quad biking to get your adrenaline pumping. But after all that adventure, you owe it to yourself to stretch out and zen out.

Jinja is the start of the Nile River (arguably the longest river in the world), and we have never had a more peaceful yoga session than while overlooking the Nile at sunrise. Stay at Explorers River Camp to flow through your practice with an unbeatable ambience.

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Where are your favourite places to practice yoga? Share your photos with us using #dailyhivemapped.