hot yoga

so i tried something new . hot yoga. i had callously dismissed this previously. the idea of sweating while doing stretches sounded more revolting than actual exercise. however the opportunity came up, so i decided to challenge my preconceived notions.

NOTE: hot yoga (according to yoga life studios):
An energetic class in a room heated to around 38-40 degrees Celsius. Hot Yoga is famous for the detoxifying and cardiovascular effects on your body. The heat facilitates a  deep stretch, enhances your physical workout and allows your body to remove toxins through perspiration. Hot Yoga is a unique Yoga experience and you will leave feeling like you`ve never felt before!
What you can expect: Those who practice Hot Yoga generally enjoy a challenging practice. Your body and mind will definitely be challenged, and you will enjoy the benefits of a detoxifying sweat

the co-worker that was giving free yoga classes is now working at this studio. because i enjoyed her classes so much i decided to go to yoga life and support her. i noticed that they had quite a bit of hot yoga classes. my co-worker told me it wasn't too bad. when i asked if i would be okay if i just wore my t-shirt, and capris her response was, "yeah, you should be fine." HILARIOUS! i have never sweat so much in my life. i was hot, exhausted, and my shirt was dripping within the first 15 minutes. all i could think was: a) when will this be over and b) when are we taking a break. ahhhh. not to mention the lack of materials i failed to bring as the people around me seemed to have towels, face clothes and were dressed for the beach rather than yoga.

because of my ill prepartion in my first trial, i knew i had to try a second time. i forgot my towel, but i wore a tank top, shorts, had ice cold water, and a cold compress. ahhh the sauna experience of hot yoga was a success! my mat was a little slippery near the end (hence where the towel would have come in handy), however the overall stretching was fantastic. the heat allowed for a deeper stretch than i could have ever done in hatha. i felt like gumby in the end. added bonus it was a chilly outside from the rain, so it was refreshing to be all hot coming out into that weather!

i will definitely be going back for the next three months!

lesson: my parents are right: it's always great to try something new...never quit...try, and try again! :)

love