Wednesday, February 16, 2011

Hot Yoga: A New You

Hot yoga is a version of Hatha yoga performed in a warm and humid environment. The temperature of the room ranges from 95-105 °F. Although Bikram yoga is practiced in a hot room the term Hot yoga and Bikram yoga are not interchangeable. The practices are different and an instructor does not have to be trained in Bikram to teach Hot yoga. The heat may be intense for newcomers, some instructors advise sitting through a few sessions to acclimate to the heat before participating in the physical postures. Through a regular practice in Hot Yoga one can experience:
• Improved flexibility, further than that of a non-heated room. The heat promotes deep stretching and as the muscles and ligaments warm up they become more elastic and agile.
• Increased weightloss
• Improved muscle tone
• Detoxification
• Improved immune system
• Improved metabolism
• Increased circulation
• Relaxation and calmness of the mind

It is crucial to be properly hydrated before and after practice. Some practitioners hydrate themselves with coconut water as well as their regular amount of water. The excessive sweating will call for you to bring water with you to practice as well a mat, proper clothing, and a towel to place over your mat. For more information on what to expect and what to bring to your first hot class check out Yoga For Beginners

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