Hot Yoga: What is it about? Insights from a non-Yogi

I read an article (original not found) years ago about hot yoga.

Alexis L, the writer of the article at the time, wrote about her experience with Bikram (hot) Yoga. Not a stranger to yoga, Alexis wasn’t really a regular doer of the practice. But, with a coupon for 5 sessions, glowing reviews of the exercise and her ability to withstand a 45-minute spinning class, why not?

Here’s the low-down:

Bikram yoga, is more than just a recent trend. It does, however, have something about it that is unique: a 105° room! HOT HOT HOT! At the core, hot yoga is comprised of 26 poses over 90 minutes in a hot room. Sounds like a good workout, with all the benefits and balance that yoga has to bring.

This core characteristics of Bikram yoga can be intimidating to some. In fact, Alexis mentions in her article that the warnings for lightheadedness and nausea are really no joke. Her advice for beginners like herself: Take a break if you feel “off” and don’t be worried about being the odd one out in a group. Do not strain and breathe it out.

Next experience: S W E A T. Who wouldn’t, in such a hot room doing physical exercise? Her advice: Don’t sweat it. Just let the sweat roll and drip. Everyone else is just as sweaty as you are. Focus on the poses and getting through the 90 minutes, because the poses are not all easy. There are some that are easy enough, others that are manageable, but take comfort in knowing that a lot of people in the room will be wobbling and slipping, just like you. 

Alexis describes the yoga room to initially have had a funky smell, but it’s definitely one that you get used to. Especially when you’re focused on other things, like the mirror. It is advised that you focus on yourself in the mirror, to make sure you are doing the poses correctly, but it would be even better if you picked a neighbor who isn’t new to Bikram for reference.

After the class, Alexis pointed out that there definitely is a sort of buzz to your body after the class. This is because, as you go deeper into a pose, the heat seeps into your muscles. She describes it as feeling like coming out of a massage and sweating out 500+ calories! Sounds, great, which is exactly why Alexis recommends Bikram to yoga lovers.

Here are some things to remember when going to your first Bikram Yoga session:

1. Stay hydrated: bring a water bottle. Freezing the water bottle before the class helps for you to cold water after the class. The instructor gives cues as to when you should drink water, so as not to distract your classmates.
2. There is no talking at the studio. You will definitely be shushed, whether it’s before, during, or after the class.
3. Bring only what is necessary. You can’t take anything into the studio except a large towel, a water bottle, and a large towel.
4. Wait for cues. It is generally frowned upon to towel off while in a pose because it can be distracting to classmates.
5. Beginners are recommended to take their first two classes in consecutive days to avoid soreness and to reap the most benefits out of Bikram.
6. The instructor gives instructions and does not practice with the class. This can be difficult, especially for beginners. Stay closer to your more experienced classmates!
7. Sweat makes you slippery, and makes it difficult to hold on to your hands, arms, feet, and legs. Don’t worry about falling out of a pose and coming back into it!
8. Lastly, in order to enjoy shavasana or quiet time after the class, make sure to avoid positioning yourself near the door lest you want to get trampled during your peaceful meditation time.

Phew. Bikram is not easy, but it is a really fun and challenging experience just waiting to happen!

Have you tried a Bikram class? What are your tips? Add them in the comments below!

Wishing you the best in all that you do.

Rochel Marie Lawson

The Queen of Feeling Fabulous