Tonnie from Idaho: Is hot yoga better for the body than regular yoga? I’m new to yoga. I have only attended a body flow class at my gym that they say is a mixture of yoga and pilaties, so I’m not very experienced. I have gone through three surgeries in the last year and have done nothing, so it is time to get serious now. Thank you for your time.
Susan: Thank you for your interest in Yoga for the Young at Heart and your new dedication to a yoga practice. I know you’ll find it to be an amazing adventure into yourself and your body will love it.
Regarding “hot yoga”… My approach is different than that of the “hot yoga” perspective. I feel that the heat in the practice should come from inside our bodies, not outside. I don’t really recommend it, especially for women going through menopause. Its just too much heat…inside and out!
Yoga isn’t just about doing the poses and getting hot and sweaty, although the sweating is a good detox. It’s also a process of awakening and coming into conversation with your body, respecting its limitations, and being encouraging and gentle with yourself. There’s a lot of inner learning that takes place; its a body-mind-spirit practice.
How you approach the physical practice part of yoga can be a mirror into how you approach your life. Noticing where you push too hard, where you get competitive or where you back away from challenging poses. Every class is different because we are different every day, and every teacher is different. I’d suggest shopping around for a teacher that inspires you. If “hot yoga” feels good and right for you, maybe it is.
Whatever yoga path you choose, I wish you health, vitality and blessings.
Namaste’
Susan