Yoga class is a gathering place for people from all walks of life. In the studio, niche interests are exchanged for conformity and collective attention to breath and postures—at least on the surface. However, a closer look reveals that your go-to hobby influences how you show up on the mat.

Sure, it’s best to keep your focus on your own practice. But what if we were to observe how specific active-minded subcultures approach yoga in a nature documentary style?

Take the backpacker, for example. They may be moving through a Sun Salutation, but their mind is likely on the sunrise they’ll witness during their next out-and-back.

We spoke to Backpacker editor Emma Veidt for some insight into the mind of a hiker-slash-yogi.

15 Thoughts a Backpacker Has in Yoga Class

1. Do these props come in ultralight? 
2. Are my hips supposed to pop in Triangle Pose?
3. Tiny muscles I didn’t even know I had are sore from my heavy pack.
4. Hot yoga? No, thank you. I start hiking at 2 a.m. to avoid the heat.
5. This box breathing thing could be helpful in high altitudes…
6. You can stretch your toes?
7. This mat is pretty thick. Maybe I can make camp here tonight.
8. I can’t wait to try King Dancer on my next 14er.
9. I know this class is technically an hour, but maybe an FKT is possible.
10. I wonder if I could tie my hiking boots in Downward-Facing Dog.
11. This strap could make a great (and handy) luxury item for future backpacking trips. 
12. I already have a trail name. Can I get a yogi name too? (It’s probably “Creaky.”)
13. Look at all that branded gear. They’re definitely sponsored.
14. Huh. I’m missing two toenails.
15. Ah, Mountain Pose! Another peak to bag!

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