If you’re thinking about trying hot yoga, stop thinking about it; just do it! I get it, you’re worried that it’ll be too hot and you don’t like to sweat. Take a deep breath and let all of that go. It will take a class or two to get used to the heat, but your mind and body will thank you.

I began practicing vinyasa yoga and hatha yoga three years ago, and I had always wondered how hot yoga would make me feel. Luckily, there was a Real Hot Yoga studio nearby. Although I am known to overheat easily, I took the 95 degree studio as a challenge and a new adventure. It was a challenge indeed and put my limbs and pores to the test.

I had anticipated that I would sweat, but I didn’t expect to get such a workout in those 75 precious minutes. With that being said, it took me some time to adjust to the new yoga environment and build my mental and physical endurance. In this way, I was able to get more out of the time as I could integrate it into my fitness routine.

In hot yoga, you don’t have to worry about taking the extra time to get limber; you’re already warmed up! The added heat not only allows you more flexibility, it also increases your metabolism and flushes out toxins. At the same time, you’ll be getting a cardiovascular workout.

If your day job involves you hunching over a computer, reversing this process will be heavenly. If you’re sitting like this for hours, I am willing to bet that you have plenty of knots hiding. Allowing your body more flexibility will allow you to reverse this process and pamper your body with relaxation.

You will become aware of your body and find it easier to tune into tension and pains that you hadn’t noticed, and relieve them. The heat has a way of detoxifying your body, but also your mind. If you had been stressed or anxious before beginning your practice, you will feel like a sense of confidence when you are finished. It does not make your worries disappear by any means, but it offers a method of coping with it all in a healthy way.

There are many benefits to reap, but it is important to do so in a safe place. Since you will be sweating so much, be sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day, and bring a bottle (or two) with you. It is likely that you’ll be in a class among yogis who are holding advanced poses. There is no need to emulate them if you’re not ready. Be sure to know your body so that you can get the most out of your practice.

By tuning into you, you can find the best way to be the best version of yourself. The best part about yoga is that it’s not a competition. Everyone practicing is there for the same, positive reason, and that in itself is beautiful.

Namaste.