Participants in Redwood Rx Yoga in the Redwoods carry their mats and other props to a clearing for class.

Yoga practitioners connect with their practice and nature during Redwood Rx.

Yoga in the Redwoods at Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park is led by Sonya, who teaches in the Iyengar Yoga tradition. The yoga class is part of Redwood Rx, one of dozens of new programs sponsored by Mountain Parks Foundation that are taking place at Henry Cowell, Fall Creek and Big Basin Redwoods state parks to promote participant health and wellness. “We are very thrilled to introduce Redwood Rx, which aims to provide something for everyone to experience the healing power of nature,” said Brenda Holmes, executive director of Mountain Parks Foundation. “We know that spending time in nature has a wide range of benefits, from reducing stress to boosting immunity.” Redwood Rx programs are led by experienced instructors who offer a variety of health and wellness opportunities to manage stress, lower social isolation, regulate blood pressure, promote mindfulness, alleviate depression, reduce anxiety, boost immunity and have fun. Upcoming events include: A Moment in Time at Big Basin on Sept 26; Naturally Creative: Writing in Partnership with Nature on Oct. 4; Men’s Nature Retreat on Oct. 7; Drawing New Relationships with Nature on Oct. 22 and Sunset Yoga on Oct. 26. Mountain Parks Foundation is a nonprofit partner of California State Parks working to “inspire the next generation of stewards of Henry Cowell and Big Basin Redwoods State Parks by connecting people to the natural wonders and healing properties they contain.” Advanced registration for the classes is required and space is limited. For registration and information, visit mountainparks.org.

LEFT: Caryn Crawford and Dawn Byrum practice tree pose at Henry Cowell Redwoods during a Redwoods Rx yoga class. Tree pose, also known as Vrkshasana (from the Sanskrit words “vrksa” meaning “tree,” and “asana” meaning “pose”) is a standing pose in yoga that requires balance and coordination. ABOVE: Sonya, who teaches in the Iyengar tradition holds her hand in “Namaste” during class.