Mountain yoga in Alpe d'Huez

Welkeys, your bnb concierge service, invites you to discover the practice of yoga in the mountains, specifically in the Alps at Alpe d’Huez. Thanks to Laurasana Yoga, learn to let go through breathing amidst majestic mountain ranges. Restore your physical and mental well-being by performing the postures of this ancient way of life.

This new Welkeys Experience is the perfect addition to your stay at Alpe d’Huez. Take this opportunity to vary your vacation activities while finding a bit of inner peace. Whether alone or with others, there are plenty of possibilities with Laura!

Practicing yoga in the mountains

In general, yoga is known for providing daily benefits. But what are they, really? Truth be told, regardless of the type of yoga practiced, you will notice improvements both physically and psychologically. For some, it is primarily about gaining flexibility, strengthening the entire body, improving balance, and reducing recurring pain, especially in the back. All of this is achieved through the various postures used, which stimulate all muscle groups in the body with varying degrees of intensity depending on the style of yoga applied.

For others, it is often about reducing stress and anxiety through breathing, which aims to regulate the vital energy flows present in the human body. Indeed, by focusing the mind on the body, movements, and breath, practitioners anchor themselves in the present moment. This allows, as in meditation, for attention to be shifted away from the anxiety being felt. Over the course of sessions, people learn to accept their thoughts and gain greater concentration. In the long term, this helps reduce stress because yogis are able to step out of the negative thought patterns of these states of mind and return to the "here and now" through their breathing.

When we think of a winter mountain vacation, we think of skiing, snowboarding, or snowshoeing, but mountain yoga is a winter sport in its own right that is still too little known to vacationers. Indeed, practicing yoga in the mountains brings a few extra benefits compared to more common practice. You find the same postures combined with breathing, but everything is amplified in this timeless setting.

In the middle of this majestic scenery, symbiosis and connection with nature are more conducive to a complete union between your body and mind via varied sensory stimuli: the sounds of birds and water, the feeling of the breeze on your skin, the outside temperature, or even watching the sunset. Facing the power of the peaks, far from urban and noise pollution, the introspection that yoga implies manifests differently—for many, more intensely. At the same time, the fresh, pure mountain air allows you to relax further and open your chakras. It also facilitates oxygenation, stimulates the cardiovascular system, and strengthens the immune system. The cold, meanwhile, will help tone your muscles even more.

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Mountain yoga with Laurasana

Who is Laura?

By now, you may be wondering where and how to practice this discipline in the mountains? We invite you to Alpe d’Huez to learn this sport with Laurasana, our local partner who provides Vinyasa Yoga classes.

Having been immersed since childhood in the Asian culture where she lived from a young age, Laura has always been drawn to different methods of seeking inner well-being, including Tai Chi, massage, dance, and meditation. While working in marketing and communications for international groups, she traveled to China, and it was there that she truly discovered yoga and realized the benefits the discipline could have on the body and mind.

Upon returning to France, Laura decided to train as a Vinyasa Yoga instructor. Driven by a desire to share her experience and with great kindness, she has since been teaching this sport that changed her life in Alpe d’Huez.

What does Laura offer?

Laura teaches Vinyasa yoga, which is a dynamic form of yoga. During the sessions, you will combine asanas, pranayama, and savasana to reach a state of great tranquility. Laura explains it better than we do: "Vinyasa yoga is an energetic yoga based on movement, which allows you to gain mobility and flexibility. The practices follow a sequence of postures; the movements are harmonized and initiated by the breath, while working on body alignment. The session always ends with a well-deserved relaxation/meditation period."

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Depending on your preferences, she offers group and individual outdoor classes. In December, you can practice snow yoga (yoga in the snow) every Monday and Thursday. On Wednesdays in December, pair your snow yoga with a "hot drink"—a restorative and well-deserved warm beverage after a complete and intense session. Laura has also managed to find a special location for yoga sessions at 2,700 meters.

For the less adventurous, she also offers indoor Vinyasa classes at the Hôtel Le Castilla, with an incredible view of the mountains that is inspiring even from inside. You can also arrange for private classes and do them with your friends or family directly from your vacation rental in Alpe d’Huez. Indeed, Laura also provides private home lessons, both indoors and outdoors. Finally, this can also be a gift idea to give or enjoy during your stay. Book your session now to avoid missing out when you arrive.

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How do you practice mountain yoga with Laura?

To make the most of the outdoor sessions, Laura advises wearing comfortable, warm clothing, as weather conditions can change quickly in the mountains. Also, bring sunglasses and sunscreen. The sessions are suitable for everyone; posture variations can be offered depending on each person's level. Yoga mats are provided.

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Testimonials from satisfied clients

Still not convinced by this mountain experience? Who better than Laura's students to tell you about what they experienced alongside this passionate instructor:

“My first experience with yoga was a revelation, thanks in no small part to Laura. Gentle, clear, open, and inspiring, she made every student feel comfortable and encouraged everyone to be their best self. The outdoor class I attended was fantastic. I highly recommend her.” - Olivia 

“A superb experience that I would love to do again. A hike and yoga class in an idyllic setting. Laura was attentive and adapted the session to my needs and questions. Everything was perfectly organized, right down to the music. Honestly, it was pure joy!” - Damienne

In short, take advantage of your mountain getaway to experience yoga in the Alps at Alpe d'Huez with Laura. Book your stay now and, whether you are a beginner or an experienced practitioner, take some time for yourself and recharge by practicing this unique discipline in the heart of nature.