outdoors

OUTDOORS Nature calls: get out to go within

Hong Kong’s top yogis share their favourite hikes out of the city to find peace within. By Melanie Cox

Getting into a meditative state to cultivate inner peace doesn’t require a yoga mat. Put on your hiking boots and head on one of these recommended hikes for a completely zen, moving meditation.

enjoyable and interesting activity, there are many beautiful things to pay attention to and stay focused in the present moment.

Do you feel the need to “escape” the city?

Yes definitely, I feel too much time in the city without any access to some form of nature can cause extra stress and anxiety, being in nature is very healing for my body and mind.

Since Covid-19, do you feel the need to get out more often?

The current situation definitely makes me feel confined but I have my morning practices to deal with feelings that arise. Additionally, meditation, pranayama, asana and studying yoga philosophy are my daily practices that give me all the inner peace I need, plus so much more.

Luke Graeber

Yoga Teacher & Photography

@lukegraeber

Where is your favourite hike in Hong Kong to cultivate inner peace?

Long Ke Wan Beach in Sai Kung District. I love water, especially being by the ocean.

When I go hiking I don’t bring my phone with me, so it’s a chance to shut off from the many distractions I have and enjoy being fully absorbed in life. The beauty of being out in nature is that it is easy to acquire a feeling that everything in existence is inherently interconnected, from us humans to the trees, we are all just small parts that make up the whole.

Does hiking compliment yoga and mindfulness?

Yoga is a system to connect with the all encompassing underlying reality, to eradicate the boundaries of individuality and flow with existence, hiking in nature can assist in the feeling of boundlessness. Hiking is a very

Siena T

Yoga and Pilates Teacher, Reiki Practitioner

@siiiena

Where is your favourite hike to cultivate inner peace?

My ultimate favorite would be Lantau’s Sunset Peak. This hike in particular, is deeper into the green of Hong Kong with panoramic views. Whether it’s to catch a sunrise or a sunset every time I go, I’m always taken away by the beauty of it.

Is hiking a form of meditation and mindfulness to you?

Yes, definitely. There is a form of meditation or therapy called forest bathing where one can surround themselves in nature, stimulate the senses to revitalise the mind, body and spirit within us.

Yoga practices mindfulness and my take on this is being grateful for the present moment. When I immerse myself in such breathtaking surroundings, it is hard not to appreciate the nature that this hike embodies within me. This is a friendly reminder and a treat for myself to take those deeper breaths of gratitude, particularly when feeling overwhelmed by city life.

What is your favourite thing about being out in nature?

Disconnecting with the convenience of technology and our modern world. To take a break from the norms and routines of everyday life and just breathe.

Hiking and nature are always available to us. It’s us, who are often too busy and distracted with our everyday lives to appreciate it’s offering. By recognising that we need to get some fresh air or exercise, we are taking

For those that cannot easily access nature, what tools do you use to be mindful during Covid-19?

The one thing I have learned from isolation and social distancing is to feel okay with doing nothing. To appreciate slowing down and taking the time to do things that I normally wouldn’t have time to do if I were on my usual packed schedule. Me time.

Victor Chau

Yoga Teacher, IRIS: Your Escape Programme co-director

Where is your favourite hike to cultivate inner peace?

Violet Hills and the Twins. It is easy to get to, relatively physically challenging, beautiful scenery and I can always end up on a beach or have fish and chips and a beer in Stanley. When I climb up those 1,000 plus steps on the Twins, one has to go into a trance, count the steps and breaths in order to endure the steps. When you count your steps, it’s the equivalent of counting your breath. This promotes a meditative state and ultimately inner peace.

How does hiking compliment yoga and mindfulness?

I’ve climbed mountains all over the world and there’s an element of appreciation of nature wherever I go. Sometimes when people go hiking, they listen to music on their bluetooth speaker, chat loudly, or take a selfie. Yes, this can satisfy our socialising needs. But it is really worthwhile to stay quiet, notice our surroundings. Be aware of the number of steps you take, notice the plants and birds chirping around you. See the change in the colour of the bushes. All these can help you be more aware of nature, and your thoughts, feelings and emotions. Gradually you will notice things you have never noticed before, about the hike or better still, about yourself.

Do you feel the need to “escape” the city?

Yes and no. Thanks to yoga, I have learnt how to stay calm and positive in almost every situation. I have this unwritten rule that when the sun’s out, I will go out a little - take a walk, do yoga or go for jog. I think if we keep a curious mind, there’s much to explore in Hong Kong’s countryside and even different neighbourhoods.

Is hiking a form of meditation to you?

Most definitely. One form of meditation is counting one’s breath. Meditation by definition is bringing your focus onto one thing, not to empty the mind. And breathing is one of the easier focal points to rest on. Especially when hiking at a steady pace, knowing that you’re not in a rush, you can count your breath, or your steps (think of the 1,000 plus steps!). You will finish the hike with a clearer mind and two sore legs.