Nestled in the heart of Central Oregon, Drake Park becomes a serene haven every Tuesday evening, courtesy of Emily Tighe and her initiative, Do Yoga Outside. Offering a free weekly restorative yoga session from 5 to 6 PM, Tighe invites locals and visitors alike to unwind amidst the natural splendor of Bend’s outdoors.
Having relocated from the east coast over four years ago, Tighe found her calling as a full-time yoga instructor in Bend. Her passion for yoga in natural settings culminated in the launch of Weekly Yoga in Drake Park last April, drawing a diverse crowd eager to experience yoga amid nature’s embrace.
“This free class attracts a diverse group of people — those who have never practiced yoga, those who have never practiced yoga outside, and newcomers to Bend connecting with nature through yoga,” Tighe explains, beaming with enthusiasm. “As a yoga teacher who strives to be inclusive, this is a dream come true.”
Participants are encouraged to reserve their spot in advance and bring a mat and water bottle. The sessions focus on restorative flow, emphasizing gentle movements that foster grounding, mindfulness, and connection to the breath.
“Yoga is for every single body type and every single person — you do not need to be flexible,” Tighe emphasizes warmly. “You show up as you are, and whatever your body is capable of is enough.”
Reflecting on the community’s response, Tighe describes Drake Park as a gathering place where around 15 to 16 individuals gather weekly, creating a heartwarming atmosphere of shared wellness and connection.
Beyond Drake Park, Do Yoga Outside offers a range of experiences including Mom and Me events at Smith Rock State Park, Art and Yoga sessions, and Sunset Yoga and Sound Journey sessions. Each event aims to blend the tranquility of yoga with the natural beauty of Central Oregon, providing enriching experiences for participants of all backgrounds.
Join Emily Tighe at Drake Park this summer for an uplifting fusion of yoga and natural serenity, and discover firsthand the transformative power of practicing yoga in the great outdoors.
