{"id":53,"date":"2026-02-02T11:12:21","date_gmt":"2026-02-02T11:12:21","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/sokhafitness.com\/?p=53"},"modified":"2026-02-02T14:59:48","modified_gmt":"2026-02-02T14:59:48","slug":"i-did-60-minutes-of-hot-yoga-for-6-months-heres-what-happened-to-my-body","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/sokhafitness.com\/?p=53","title":{"rendered":"I did 60 minutes of hot yoga for 6 months \u2014 here&#8217;s what happened to my body"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"hero\" class=\"clear-both widget widget-hero widget-hero widget-hero-hero widget-hero widget-hero-fter-news\" data-widget-type=\"hero\">\n<div class=\"news-article\">\n<header data-component-name=\"Article:Hero\">\n<div class=\"byline-social\">\n<p class=\"strapline\" data-bordeaux-hook-loaded=\"sponsored-by\">I&#8217;ve been hitting the hot yoga studio more regularly<span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.\u00a0<\/span><a style=\"background-color: white; font-size: 1rem;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.tomsguide.com\/reference\/about-us#section-affiliate-advertising-disclosure\" data-before-rewrite-localise=\"https:\/\/www.tomsguide.com\/reference\/about-us#section-affiliate-advertising-disclosure\">Here\u2019s how it works<\/a><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/header>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"content\" class=\"clear-both widget widget-contentparsed widget-content widget-contentparsed-content widget-content-parsed widget-content-parsed-content_document \" data-widget-type=\"contentparsed\">\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<section class=\"content-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"box less-space hero-image-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"relative w-full\">\n<div class=\"hero-image-padding-wrap padding-on\">\n<div class=\"hero-image-padding\"><picture data-new-v2-image=\"true\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/U6WwzmJU6hyR8qfAosVH7X-1920-80.jpg.webp 1920w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/U6WwzmJU6hyR8qfAosVH7X-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/U6WwzmJU6hyR8qfAosVH7X-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/U6WwzmJU6hyR8qfAosVH7X-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/U6WwzmJU6hyR8qfAosVH7X-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/U6WwzmJU6hyR8qfAosVH7X-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/U6WwzmJU6hyR8qfAosVH7X-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" type=\"image\/webp\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 600px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"block-image-ads hero-image\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/U6WwzmJU6hyR8qfAosVH7X.jpg\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 600px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/U6WwzmJU6hyR8qfAosVH7X-1920-80.jpg 1920w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/U6WwzmJU6hyR8qfAosVH7X-1200-80.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/U6WwzmJU6hyR8qfAosVH7X-1024-80.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/U6WwzmJU6hyR8qfAosVH7X-970-80.jpg 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/U6WwzmJU6hyR8qfAosVH7X-650-80.jpg 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/U6WwzmJU6hyR8qfAosVH7X-480-80.jpg 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/U6WwzmJU6hyR8qfAosVH7X-320-80.jpg 320w\" alt=\"Woman performing a low lunge from shoulders down view and hands on blocks either side\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/U6WwzmJU6hyR8qfAosVH7X.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/U6WwzmJU6hyR8qfAosVH7X.jpg\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" \/><\/picture><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"article-body\" class=\"text-copy bodyCopy auto\">\n<div id=\"utility-bar\" class=\"flex justify-between items-center py-2 border-t border-b border-gray-300 border-solid mb-5 mx-auto\" data-analytics-id=\"utility-bar\" data-component-name=\"UtilityBar\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"utility-bar\">\n<div class=\"flex gap-2 text-[#333] subcontainer\">\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\">\n<p><button id=\"utilitybar__button--share\" class=\"relative text-inherit leading-none text-xs flex items-center gap-1\" type=\"button\" aria-label=\"Share this article\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"utilitybar__dropdown--share\" aria-haspopup=\"true\" data-analytics-id=\"article-social\" data-component-name=\"UtilityBar:ShareArticle:Button\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-social\">Share<\/button><\/p>\n<div id=\"tooltip-share-this-article\" class=\"max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">Share this article<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\">\n<div id=\"tooltip-join-the-conversation\" class=\"max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">Join the conversation<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flex gap-2 text-[#333] subcontainer\">\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\">\n<div id=\"tooltip-add-us-as-a-preferred-source-on-google\" class=\"max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">Add us as a preferred source on Google<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\">\n<p><a class=\"no-underline hover:no-underline relative text-inherit leading-none text-xs flex items-center gap-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.tomsguide.com\/newsletter\" data-component-name=\"UtilityBar:Newsletter:Button\" aria-label=\"Newsletter\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-social\" data-analytics-id=\"article-social\" data-before-rewrite-localise=\"\/newsletter\" data-url=\"https:\/\/www.tomsguide.com\/newsletter\" data-hl-processed=\"none\" data-hawk-tracked=\"hawklinks\" data-mrf-link=\"https:\/\/www.tomsguide.com\/newsletter\">Newsletter<\/a><\/p>\n<div id=\"tooltip-subscribe-to-our-newsletter\" class=\"max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">Subscribe to our newsletter<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"e16a3896-186c-4fe7-b652-5ff571ffa7ac\">I\u2019ve been dipping my tentative toes into yoga for roughly 10 years now, but my hot yoga practice has developed over six months into a weekly exercise routine that no-one who knows me dares interrupt.<\/p>\n<div id=\"ad-unit-1\" class=\"ad-unit\"><\/div>\n<p>Hot yoga carries a wealth of benefits. Regular practice could improve your balance, flexibility and range of motion, build functional strength and increase lean muscle mass, depending on the intensity and consistency of your practice. But any yogi can tell you that the benefits for breath, mind and body are what really sends us back to our mats each time.<\/p>\n<aside class=\"hawk-root\" data-block-type=\"embed\" data-render-type=\"fte\" data-skip=\"dealsy\" data-widget-type=\"seasonal\" data-widget-id=\"df9418b8-4ad5-48d2-b490-64701edf3415\" data-result=\"missing\"><\/aside>\n<p id=\"e16a3896-186c-4fe7-b652-5ff571ffa7ac-2\">Here\u2019s what happened when I turned up the heat on my yoga classes consistently for six months, physically and mentally, while bedding my sweaty paws down on one of the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.tomsguide.com\/best-picks\/best-yoga-mats\" data-analytics-id=\"inline-link\" data-url=\"https:\/\/www.tomsguide.com\/best-picks\/best-yoga-mats\" data-hl-processed=\"none\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"inline-link\" data-before-rewrite-localise=\"https:\/\/www.tomsguide.com\/best-picks\/best-yoga-mats\" data-hawk-tracked=\"hawklinks\" data-mrf-link=\"https:\/\/www.tomsguide.com\/best-picks\/best-yoga-mats\">best yoga mats<\/a>\u00a0to do it (Lululemon Take Form, if you\u2019re interested).<\/p>\n<div class=\"van_vid_carousel vid-present\">\n<div class=\"van_vid_carousel__padding\">\n<div class=\"van_vid_carousel__container\">\n<div class=\"future__jwplayer--carousel\">\n<div class=\"jw-carousel\">\n<div class=\"carousel__title\">Latest Videos From Tom&#8217;s Guide<\/div>\n<div class=\"carousel--background\"><\/div>\n<div id=\"botr_Q1UC4oov_uW7D3ySO_div\" class=\"jwplayer jw-reset jw-state-playing jw-stretch-uniform jw-flag-aspect-mode jw-breakpoint-1 jw-floating-dismissible jw-flag-user-inactive jw-flag-floating jw-flag-small-player\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"application\" aria-label=\"Video Player - Best Gifts for Gamers\" data-compass-listening=\"true\" aria-describedby=\"jw-botr_Q1UC4oov_uW7D3ySO_div-shortcuts-tooltip-explanation\">\n<div class=\"jw-wrapper jw-reset\">\n<div class=\"jw-media jw-reset\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"jw-captions jw-reset jw-captions-enabled\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"jw-overlays jw-reset\">\n<div id=\"botr_Q1UC4oov_uW7D3ySO_div_googima\" class=\"jw-plugin jw-reset jw-plugin-googima jw-ad-linear\">\n<div id=\"botr_Q1UC4oov_uW7D3ySO_div_ad\" class=\"jw-ads-view\">\n<div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"jw-float-bar jw-reset\">\n<div class=\"jw-float-bar-title\" aria-label=\" \"><\/div>\n<div class=\"jw-float-bar-icon jw-float-icon jw-icon jw-button-color jw-reset\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\" aria-label=\"Close\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"jw-controls jw-reset\">\n<div class=\"jw-display jw-reset\">\n<div class=\"jw-display-container jw-reset\">\n<div class=\"jw-display-controls jw-reset\">\n<div class=\"jw-display-icon-container jw-display-icon-display jw-reset\">\n<div class=\"jw-icon jw-icon-display jw-button-color jw-reset\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\" aria-label=\"Pause\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"jw-nextup-container jw-reset\">\n<div class=\"jw-nextup jw-background-color jw-reset jw-nextup-thumbnail-visible\">\n<div class=\"jw-nextup-tooltip jw-reset\">\n<div class=\"jw-nextup-body jw-reset\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"jw-controlbar jw-reset\">\n<div class=\"jw-slider-time jw-chapter-slider-time jw-background-color jw-reset jw-slider-horizontal jw-reset\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"slider\" aria-valuetext=\"0 of 1 minute, 30 seconds\" aria-valuenow=\"0.022772\" aria-label=\"Seek\" aria-valuemin=\"0\" aria-valuemax=\"90\">\n<div class=\"jw-slider-container jw-reset\">\n<div class=\"jw-reset jw-old-rail\">\n<div class=\"jw-timesegment jw-reset\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n<div class=\"jw-timesegment-resetter jw-reset\">\n<div class=\"jw-timesegment-container jw-reset\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"jw-icon jw-icon-tooltip jw-tooltip-time jw-button-color jw-reset\">\n<div class=\"jw-overlay jw-reset\">\n<div class=\"jw-time-tip jw-reset\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"jw-reset jw-button-container\">\n<div class=\"jw-icon jw-icon-tooltip jw-icon-volume jw-button-color jw-reset jw-off\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"group\" aria-label=\"Unmute button\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"jw-icon jw-icon-inline jw-button-color jw-reset jw-icon-fullscreen\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\" aria-label=\"Fullscreen\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<aside class=\"clear-both pt-3 pb-4 mb-4 border-solid border-y border-neutral-300\" data-component-name=\"Recirculation:ArticleRiver\" data-recirculation-type=\"inline\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"Trending Bar\" data-nosnippet=\"\"><span class=\"font-article-heading block pb-3 !text-base font-bold uppercase sm:text-sm text-[#333]\">You may like<\/span><\/p>\n<ul class=\"flex flex-col gap-3 m-0\">\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-1\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-1\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-1\"><a class=\"flex flex-row gap-2 \" href=\"https:\/\/www.tomsguide.com\/wellness\/workouts\/too-cold-to-exercise-outdoors-this-8-minute-yoga-routine-resets-your-energy-boosts-mood-and-strengthens-joints\" data-before-rewrite-localise=\"https:\/\/www.tomsguide.com\/wellness\/workouts\/too-cold-to-exercise-outdoors-this-8-minute-yoga-routine-resets-your-energy-boosts-mood-and-strengthens-joints\" data-url=\"https:\/\/www.tomsguide.com\/wellness\/workouts\/too-cold-to-exercise-outdoors-this-8-minute-yoga-routine-resets-your-energy-boosts-mood-and-strengthens-joints\" data-hl-processed=\"none\" data-hawk-tracked=\"hawklinks\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"[Tomsguide] Article - You May Like\" data-mrf-link=\"https:\/\/www.tomsguide.com\/wellness\/workouts\/too-cold-to-exercise-outdoors-this-8-minute-yoga-routine-resets-your-energy-boosts-mood-and-strengthens-joints\"><picture class=\"w-[--article-river-thumbnail-width,100px] flex-shrink-0\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/xDKq8MbiR69TA2tHLsMXHQ-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/xDKq8MbiR69TA2tHLsMXHQ-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" type=\"image\/webp\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] object-cover w-[--article-river-thumbnail-width,100px] flex-shrink-0\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/xDKq8MbiR69TA2tHLsMXHQ-840-80.jpg\" sizes=\"150px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/xDKq8MbiR69TA2tHLsMXHQ-250-80.jpg 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/xDKq8MbiR69TA2tHLsMXHQ-150-80.jpg 150w\" alt=\"woman doing seated twist yoga exercise \" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/xDKq8MbiR69TA2tHLsMXHQ.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/xDKq8MbiR69TA2tHLsMXHQ.jpg\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" \/><\/picture><span class=\"hover:text-inherit font-article-heading text-[14px] font-bold text-[#333] leading-5\">This 8-minute yoga routine resets your energy, boosts your mood and strengthens joints (perfect if you hate outdoor workouts)<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-2\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-2\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-2\"><a class=\"flex flex-row gap-2 \" href=\"https:\/\/www.tomsguide.com\/wellness\/workouts\/i-tried-a-15-minute-pilates-core-routine-for-14-days-and-my-posture-isnt-the-only-change\" data-before-rewrite-localise=\"https:\/\/www.tomsguide.com\/wellness\/workouts\/i-tried-a-15-minute-pilates-core-routine-for-14-days-and-my-posture-isnt-the-only-change\" data-url=\"https:\/\/www.tomsguide.com\/wellness\/workouts\/i-tried-a-15-minute-pilates-core-routine-for-14-days-and-my-posture-isnt-the-only-change\" data-hl-processed=\"none\" data-hawk-tracked=\"hawklinks\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"[Tomsguide] Article - You May Like\" data-mrf-link=\"https:\/\/www.tomsguide.com\/wellness\/workouts\/i-tried-a-15-minute-pilates-core-routine-for-14-days-and-my-posture-isnt-the-only-change\"><picture class=\"w-[--article-river-thumbnail-width,100px] flex-shrink-0\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/iKaben2oSGVc2ydVme9DfF-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/iKaben2oSGVc2ydVme9DfF-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" type=\"image\/webp\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] object-cover w-[--article-river-thumbnail-width,100px] flex-shrink-0\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/iKaben2oSGVc2ydVme9DfF-840-80.jpg\" sizes=\"150px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/iKaben2oSGVc2ydVme9DfF-250-80.jpg 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/iKaben2oSGVc2ydVme9DfF-150-80.jpg 150w\" alt=\"a woman holding a yoga mat with strong abs\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/iKaben2oSGVc2ydVme9DfF.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/iKaben2oSGVc2ydVme9DfF.jpg\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" \/><\/picture><span class=\"hover:text-inherit font-article-heading text-[14px] font-bold text-[#333] leading-5\">\u2018I tried a 15-minute Pilates core routine for 14 Days \u2014 and my posture isn\u2019t the only change.\u2019<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-3\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-3\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-3\"><a class=\"flex flex-row gap-2 \" href=\"https:\/\/www.tomsguide.com\/wellness\/workouts\/i-did-triangle-pose-every-day-for-2-weeks-and-my-entire-body-opened-up\" data-before-rewrite-localise=\"https:\/\/www.tomsguide.com\/wellness\/workouts\/i-did-triangle-pose-every-day-for-2-weeks-and-my-entire-body-opened-up\" data-url=\"https:\/\/www.tomsguide.com\/wellness\/workouts\/i-did-triangle-pose-every-day-for-2-weeks-and-my-entire-body-opened-up\" data-hl-processed=\"none\" data-hawk-tracked=\"hawklinks\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"[Tomsguide] Article - You May Like\" data-mrf-link=\"https:\/\/www.tomsguide.com\/wellness\/workouts\/i-did-triangle-pose-every-day-for-2-weeks-and-my-entire-body-opened-up\"><picture class=\"w-[--article-river-thumbnail-width,100px] flex-shrink-0\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/BnT29EQ4krbUtD9oy4DRbc-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/BnT29EQ4krbUtD9oy4DRbc-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" type=\"image\/webp\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] object-cover w-[--article-river-thumbnail-width,100px] flex-shrink-0\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/BnT29EQ4krbUtD9oy4DRbc-840-80.jpg\" sizes=\"150px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/BnT29EQ4krbUtD9oy4DRbc-250-80.jpg 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/BnT29EQ4krbUtD9oy4DRbc-150-80.jpg 150w\" alt=\"A woman performing a triangle pose \" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/BnT29EQ4krbUtD9oy4DRbc.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/BnT29EQ4krbUtD9oy4DRbc.jpg\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" \/><\/picture><span class=\"hover:text-inherit font-article-heading text-[14px] font-bold text-[#333] leading-5\">I did triangle pose every day for 2 weeks, and my entire body opened up<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/aside>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"hot-yoga-benefits-3\">Hot yoga: Benefits<\/h2>\n<p id=\"eab555de-8ae6-498b-b3db-3d667029725e\">Unlike Bikram, hot yoga doesn\u2019t follow the same asanas every time. Your teacher will have free reign on how he, she, or they sequence a hot yoga class. That means you could be in for anything from dynamic flow to a more gentle\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.tomsguide.com\/features\/i-did-yin-yoga-every-day-for-a-week-heres-what-happened\" data-analytics-id=\"inline-link\" data-url=\"https:\/\/www.tomsguide.com\/features\/i-did-yin-yoga-every-day-for-a-week-heres-what-happened\" data-hl-processed=\"none\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"inline-link\" data-before-rewrite-localise=\"https:\/\/www.tomsguide.com\/features\/i-did-yin-yoga-every-day-for-a-week-heres-what-happened\" data-hawk-tracked=\"hawklinks\" data-mrf-link=\"https:\/\/www.tomsguide.com\/features\/i-did-yin-yoga-every-day-for-a-week-heres-what-happened\">Yin yoga class<\/a>, and this also determines whether you leave class sporting a dewy glow or, like me, looking like you\u2019ve just jumped in the bath.<\/p>\n<div id=\"ad-unit-2\" class=\"ad-unit\"><\/div>\n<p>Despite the sweat-laden sessions, hot yoga \u201cdoes not sufficiently increase aerobic intensity or caloric cost,\u201d according to the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC7241641\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" data-analytics-id=\"inline-link\" data-url=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC7241641\/\" data-hl-processed=\"none\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"inline-link\" data-hawk-tracked=\"hawklinks\" data-mrf-link=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC7241641\/\">International Journal of Exercise Science<\/a>. In other words, you\u2019re not guaranteed to burn many calories or increase your heart rate significantly. However, the same research does suggest that exercising in a heated environment could \u2018contribute to favorable metabolic changes over time.\u2019 So, if you want to lose weight, adding hot yoga to your exercise routine is a good choice and could even increase the flexibility in those who adopt it.<\/p>\n<figure id=\"d695c1b2-92ae-4f6b-b5a6-65666c008232\" class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\"><picture data-new-v2-image=\"true\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/VNyVayrayT2sa69YAEd6oC-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/VNyVayrayT2sa69YAEd6oC-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/VNyVayrayT2sa69YAEd6oC-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/VNyVayrayT2sa69YAEd6oC-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/VNyVayrayT2sa69YAEd6oC-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/VNyVayrayT2sa69YAEd6oC-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" type=\"image\/webp\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/VNyVayrayT2sa69YAEd6oC.jpg\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/VNyVayrayT2sa69YAEd6oC-1200-80.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/VNyVayrayT2sa69YAEd6oC-1024-80.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/VNyVayrayT2sa69YAEd6oC-970-80.jpg 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/VNyVayrayT2sa69YAEd6oC-650-80.jpg 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/VNyVayrayT2sa69YAEd6oC-480-80.jpg 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/VNyVayrayT2sa69YAEd6oC-320-80.jpg 320w\" alt=\"Yoga vs Pilates: woman on her exercise mat in her living room in a pigeon pose with right leg bent leaning backwards\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/VNyVayrayT2sa69YAEd6oC.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/VNyVayrayT2sa69YAEd6oC.jpg\" \/><\/picture><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p id=\"8304e4e9-39b1-47c0-bb6e-d37fb77f788d\">Other research by the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/22592178\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" data-analytics-id=\"inline-link\" data-url=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/22592178\/\" data-hl-processed=\"none\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"inline-link\" data-hawk-tracked=\"hawklinks\" data-mrf-link=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/22592178\/\">Journal of Strength and Conditioning<\/a>\u00a0has shown that participants who practiced heated yoga for eight weeks benefited from better shoulder, lower back, and hamstring flexibility compared with those who did not. And you don\u2019t need to stand on your head or twist yourself into a pretzel to notice other benefits, like improving your mind-body fitness.<\/p>\n<p>One\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC3193654\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" data-analytics-id=\"inline-link\" data-url=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC3193654\/\" data-hl-processed=\"none\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"inline-link\" data-hawk-tracked=\"hawklinks\" data-mrf-link=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC3193654\/\">study<\/a>\u00a0suggests you could build strength, flexibility and balance, improve blood flow, muscle endurance and function, and promote better oxygen delivery to your muscles by practicing yoga. Yoga connects movement and breath \u2014 it\u2019s a focal component of the practice, and as we know, breathwork forms the foundation of meditation. A regular yoga routine could be a spiritual practice for many, helping to ease anxiety and improve mood.<\/p>\n<div id=\"slice-container-newsletterForm-articleInbodyContent-VEoUnmyziS47u2PHPc3Phi\" class=\"slice-container newsletter-inbodyContent-slice newsletterForm-articleInbodyContent-VEoUnmyziS47u2PHPc3Phi slice-container-newsletterForm\">\n<div class=\"newsletter-form__wrapper newsletter-form__wrapper--inbodyContent\" data-hydrate=\"true\">\n<div class=\"newsletter-form__container\">\n<section class=\"newsletter-form__top-bar\">\n<div class=\"newsletter-form__header\">Sign up to get the BEST of Tom&#8217;s Guide direct to your inbox.<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section class=\"newsletter-form__main-section\">\n<p class=\"newsletter-form__strapline\">Get instant access to breaking news, the hottest reviews, great deals and helpful tips.<\/p>\n<form class=\"newsletter-form__form newsletter-form__form--inbodyContent\" action=\"https:\/\/newsletter-subscribe.futureplc.com\/v2\/submission\/submit\" method=\"POST\" data-hydrate=\"true\"><input class=\"form__email-input form_input form__email-input form__email-input--inbodyContent\" name=\"MAIL\" required=\"\" type=\"email\" value=\"\" placeholder=\"Your Email Address\" data-hydrate=\"true\" \/><label class=\"form__checkbox-label\"><input class=\"form__checkbox-input form_input form__checkbox-input form__checkbox-input--inbodyContent\" name=\"CONTACT_OTHER_BRANDS\" type=\"checkbox\" value=\"\" data-hydrate=\"true\" \/>Contact me with news and offers from other Future brands<\/label><label class=\"form__checkbox-label\"><input class=\"form__checkbox-input form_input form__checkbox-input form__checkbox-input--inbodyContent\" name=\"CONTACT_PARTNERS\" type=\"checkbox\" value=\"\" data-hydrate=\"true\" \/>Receive email from us on behalf of our trusted partners or sponsors<\/label><\/form>\n<footer class=\"newsletter-form__footer\">By submitting your information you agree to the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/futureplc.com\/terms-conditions\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-url=\"https:\/\/futureplc.com\/terms-conditions\/\" data-hl-processed=\"none\" data-hawk-tracked=\"hawklinks\">Terms &amp; Conditions<\/a>\u00a0and\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/futureplc.com\/privacy-policy\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-url=\"https:\/\/futureplc.com\/privacy-policy\/\" data-hl-processed=\"none\" data-hawk-tracked=\"hawklinks\">Privacy Policy<\/a>\u00a0and are aged 16 or over.<\/footer>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>But despite bold claims around transformative health, remember that, as with all exercise, consistency is key with hot yoga, and progression happens over months and years, not days.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"i-apos-ve-been-doing-hot-yoga-every-week-for-6-months-x2014-here-apos-s-what-has-happened-to-my-body-xa0-3\">I&#8217;ve been doing hot yoga every week for 6 months \u2014 here&#8217;s what has happened to my body<\/h2>\n<p id=\"299f24fd-d006-49fd-be7d-70e026f2850d\">\u00a0Here\u2019s what I\u2019ve noticed six months in.<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"section-my-shoulder-mobility-has-improved\" class=\"article-body__section\">My shoulder mobility has improved<\/h3>\n<p id=\"0607da88-0e1e-4186-906d-5bbde23f339a\">Having learned that regular practice could improve your range of motion and bone and joint health, I was excited to see what hot yoga could do for my dodgy shoulders. Since a young age, I\u2019ve had hypermobility, which, to my chagrin, has caused endless instability in my shoulders.<\/p>\n<aside class=\"clear-both pt-3 pb-4 mb-4 border-solid border-y border-neutral-300\" data-component-name=\"Recirculation:ArticleRiver\" data-recirculation-type=\"inline\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"Trending Bar\" data-nosnippet=\"\"><span class=\"font-article-heading block pb-3 !text-base font-bold uppercase sm:text-sm text-[#333]\">You may like<\/span><\/p>\n<ul class=\"flex flex-col gap-3 m-0\">\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-1\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-2-inline-1\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-2-inline-1\"><a class=\"flex flex-row gap-2 \" href=\"https:\/\/www.tomsguide.com\/wellness\/workouts\/too-cold-to-exercise-outdoors-this-8-minute-yoga-routine-resets-your-energy-boosts-mood-and-strengthens-joints\" data-before-rewrite-localise=\"https:\/\/www.tomsguide.com\/wellness\/workouts\/too-cold-to-exercise-outdoors-this-8-minute-yoga-routine-resets-your-energy-boosts-mood-and-strengthens-joints\" data-url=\"https:\/\/www.tomsguide.com\/wellness\/workouts\/too-cold-to-exercise-outdoors-this-8-minute-yoga-routine-resets-your-energy-boosts-mood-and-strengthens-joints\" data-hl-processed=\"none\" data-hawk-tracked=\"hawklinks\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"[Tomsguide] Article - You May Like\" data-mrf-link=\"https:\/\/www.tomsguide.com\/wellness\/workouts\/too-cold-to-exercise-outdoors-this-8-minute-yoga-routine-resets-your-energy-boosts-mood-and-strengthens-joints\"><picture class=\"w-[--article-river-thumbnail-width,100px] flex-shrink-0\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/xDKq8MbiR69TA2tHLsMXHQ-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/xDKq8MbiR69TA2tHLsMXHQ-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" type=\"image\/webp\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] object-cover w-[--article-river-thumbnail-width,100px] flex-shrink-0\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/xDKq8MbiR69TA2tHLsMXHQ-840-80.jpg\" sizes=\"150px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/xDKq8MbiR69TA2tHLsMXHQ-250-80.jpg 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/xDKq8MbiR69TA2tHLsMXHQ-150-80.jpg 150w\" alt=\"woman doing seated twist yoga exercise \" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/xDKq8MbiR69TA2tHLsMXHQ.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/xDKq8MbiR69TA2tHLsMXHQ.jpg\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" \/><\/picture><span class=\"hover:text-inherit font-article-heading text-[14px] font-bold text-[#333] leading-5\">This 8-minute yoga routine resets your energy, boosts your mood and strengthens joints (perfect if you hate outdoor workouts)<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-2\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-2-inline-2\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-2-inline-2\"><a class=\"flex flex-row gap-2 \" href=\"https:\/\/www.tomsguide.com\/wellness\/workouts\/i-tried-a-15-minute-pilates-core-routine-for-14-days-and-my-posture-isnt-the-only-change\" data-before-rewrite-localise=\"https:\/\/www.tomsguide.com\/wellness\/workouts\/i-tried-a-15-minute-pilates-core-routine-for-14-days-and-my-posture-isnt-the-only-change\" data-url=\"https:\/\/www.tomsguide.com\/wellness\/workouts\/i-tried-a-15-minute-pilates-core-routine-for-14-days-and-my-posture-isnt-the-only-change\" data-hl-processed=\"none\" data-hawk-tracked=\"hawklinks\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"[Tomsguide] Article - You May Like\" data-mrf-link=\"https:\/\/www.tomsguide.com\/wellness\/workouts\/i-tried-a-15-minute-pilates-core-routine-for-14-days-and-my-posture-isnt-the-only-change\"><picture class=\"w-[--article-river-thumbnail-width,100px] flex-shrink-0\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/iKaben2oSGVc2ydVme9DfF-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/iKaben2oSGVc2ydVme9DfF-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" type=\"image\/webp\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] object-cover w-[--article-river-thumbnail-width,100px] flex-shrink-0\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/iKaben2oSGVc2ydVme9DfF-840-80.jpg\" sizes=\"150px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/iKaben2oSGVc2ydVme9DfF-250-80.jpg 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/iKaben2oSGVc2ydVme9DfF-150-80.jpg 150w\" alt=\"a woman holding a yoga mat with strong abs\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/iKaben2oSGVc2ydVme9DfF.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/iKaben2oSGVc2ydVme9DfF.jpg\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" \/><\/picture><span class=\"hover:text-inherit font-article-heading text-[14px] font-bold text-[#333] leading-5\">\u2018I tried a 15-minute Pilates core routine for 14 Days \u2014 and my posture isn\u2019t the only change.\u2019<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-3\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-2-inline-3\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-2-inline-3\"><a class=\"flex flex-row gap-2 \" href=\"https:\/\/www.tomsguide.com\/wellness\/workouts\/i-did-triangle-pose-every-day-for-2-weeks-and-my-entire-body-opened-up\" data-before-rewrite-localise=\"https:\/\/www.tomsguide.com\/wellness\/workouts\/i-did-triangle-pose-every-day-for-2-weeks-and-my-entire-body-opened-up\" data-url=\"https:\/\/www.tomsguide.com\/wellness\/workouts\/i-did-triangle-pose-every-day-for-2-weeks-and-my-entire-body-opened-up\" data-hl-processed=\"none\" data-hawk-tracked=\"hawklinks\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"[Tomsguide] Article - You May Like\" data-mrf-link=\"https:\/\/www.tomsguide.com\/wellness\/workouts\/i-did-triangle-pose-every-day-for-2-weeks-and-my-entire-body-opened-up\"><picture class=\"w-[--article-river-thumbnail-width,100px] flex-shrink-0\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/BnT29EQ4krbUtD9oy4DRbc-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/BnT29EQ4krbUtD9oy4DRbc-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" type=\"image\/webp\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] object-cover w-[--article-river-thumbnail-width,100px] flex-shrink-0\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/BnT29EQ4krbUtD9oy4DRbc-840-80.jpg\" sizes=\"150px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/BnT29EQ4krbUtD9oy4DRbc-250-80.jpg 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/BnT29EQ4krbUtD9oy4DRbc-150-80.jpg 150w\" alt=\"A woman performing a triangle pose \" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/BnT29EQ4krbUtD9oy4DRbc.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/BnT29EQ4krbUtD9oy4DRbc.jpg\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" \/><\/picture><span class=\"hover:text-inherit font-article-heading text-[14px] font-bold text-[#333] leading-5\">I did triangle pose every day for 2 weeks, and my entire body opened up<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/aside>\n<p>My upper body feels freer, translating into better mobility and a stronger upper body overall. Asanas that felt unreachable before, like turbo downward dog or wheel, feel far more comfortable, and I can hold them for longer. I\u2019ve also noticed improvements during weighted strength exercises and\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.tomsguide.com\/news\/this-6-move-calisthenics-workout-builds-functional-muscles-and-endurance-in-12-minutes\" data-analytics-id=\"inline-link\" data-url=\"https:\/\/www.tomsguide.com\/news\/this-6-move-calisthenics-workout-builds-functional-muscles-and-endurance-in-12-minutes\" data-hl-processed=\"none\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"inline-link\" data-before-rewrite-localise=\"https:\/\/www.tomsguide.com\/news\/this-6-move-calisthenics-workout-builds-functional-muscles-and-endurance-in-12-minutes\" data-hawk-tracked=\"hawklinks\" data-mrf-link=\"https:\/\/www.tomsguide.com\/news\/this-6-move-calisthenics-workout-builds-functional-muscles-and-endurance-in-12-minutes\">calisthenics<\/a>\u00a0outside hot yoga, like my\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.tomsguide.com\/how-to\/how-to-overhead-press-to-build-upper-body-strength-and-muscle\" data-analytics-id=\"inline-link\" data-url=\"https:\/\/www.tomsguide.com\/how-to\/how-to-overhead-press-to-build-upper-body-strength-and-muscle\" data-hl-processed=\"none\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"inline-link\" data-before-rewrite-localise=\"https:\/\/www.tomsguide.com\/how-to\/how-to-overhead-press-to-build-upper-body-strength-and-muscle\" data-hawk-tracked=\"hawklinks\" data-mrf-link=\"https:\/\/www.tomsguide.com\/how-to\/how-to-overhead-press-to-build-upper-body-strength-and-muscle\">barbell overhead press<\/a>\u00a0and kipping headstands.<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"section-the-heat-helps-my-joints-and-flexibility\" class=\"article-body__section\">The heat helps my joints and flexibility<\/h3>\n<p id=\"6dd23474-aa80-4850-914f-16f5005ca9a3\">I feel more flexible and mobile since practicing hot yoga regularly. Heat helps your body to relax and deepen postures, improving flexibility and encouraging you to move further into poses. Everyone has a stretch reflex, when the muscle contractions during a passive stretch, preventing you from rapidly overstretching. If you\u2019ve noticed a hesitancy in your muscles when stretching, it\u2019s likely your stretch reflex. After holding a stretch for more than 15 seconds, the muscles begin to relax, and a stretch can deepen or progress.<\/p>\n<p>The research shows that the heat is brilliant for your joints and flexibility, and can even improve symptoms of arthritis. My achy joints have responded well to hot yoga, far more than I imagined, and I\u2019m appreciating the heat even more during winter months. I\u2019m not surprised, as the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.arthritis.org\/health-wellness\/healthy-living\/managing-pain\/pain-relief-solutions\/heat-therapy-helps-relax-stiff-joints\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" data-analytics-id=\"inline-link\" data-url=\"https:\/\/www.arthritis.org\/health-wellness\/healthy-living\/managing-pain\/pain-relief-solutions\/heat-therapy-helps-relax-stiff-joints\" data-hl-processed=\"none\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"inline-link\" data-hawk-tracked=\"hawklinks\" data-mrf-link=\"https:\/\/www.arthritis.org\/health-wellness\/healthy-living\/managing-pain\/pain-relief-solutions\/heat-therapy-helps-relax-stiff-joints\">Arthritis Organization<\/a>\u00a0says heat therapy can help relax stiff joints.<\/p>\n<p>Moreover, heated yoga classes relax soft tissue, and the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/22814453\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" data-analytics-id=\"inline-link\" data-url=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/22814453\/\" data-hl-processed=\"none\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"inline-link\" data-hawk-tracked=\"hawklinks\" data-mrf-link=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/22814453\/\">Physical Therapy in Sport<\/a>\u00a0study found that applying heat to muscles could enhance stretching efficacy.<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"section-it-improves-my-mood\" class=\"article-body__section\">It improves my mood<\/h3>\n<p id=\"577c90e9-b0b2-4c93-aa10-97fb58e6d09e\">Over time, mainstream appeal has shifted the intention to a more physical fitness-based practice. People are looking for a workout that raises the heart rate and challenges the muscles, such as power yoga or rocket. I prefer an intense, dynamic class, but I\u2019ve noticed that the mindfulness and\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.tomsguide.com\/news\/you-only-need-five-minutes-to-reduce-stress-with-chris-hemsworths-breathing-exercise\" data-analytics-id=\"inline-link\" data-url=\"https:\/\/www.tomsguide.com\/news\/you-only-need-five-minutes-to-reduce-stress-with-chris-hemsworths-breathing-exercise\" data-hl-processed=\"none\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"inline-link\" data-before-rewrite-localise=\"https:\/\/www.tomsguide.com\/news\/you-only-need-five-minutes-to-reduce-stress-with-chris-hemsworths-breathing-exercise\" data-hawk-tracked=\"hawklinks\" data-mrf-link=\"https:\/\/www.tomsguide.com\/news\/you-only-need-five-minutes-to-reduce-stress-with-chris-hemsworths-breathing-exercise\">breathwork<\/a>\u00a0element has provided more of a pull over the last six months, drawing me back to the studio more than the physical side.<\/p>\n<figure id=\"922f1f8b-7b31-44ab-af6c-b04193383d56\">\n<blockquote class=\"vanilla-quoteblock\"><p>All yoga teachers will tell you, \u2018It\u2019s the journey, not the destination,\u201d that matters, but I dare you to find many yogis who don\u2019t do a mental fist pump when they nail a pose they\u2019ve been working toward.<\/p><\/blockquote>\n<\/figure>\n<p id=\"3dd8656f-dc5f-497f-bf70-4b9a68c34b34\">The combination of movement, heat and controlled breathing makes me feel grounded and calm immediately after practice. Sure, it doesn\u2019t last long enough to not care about the muddy paw prints on the sofa when I get home or a delayed subway service on my way to work, but regular meditation (and this is a form of that) prepares you for when you might need it most in the future, not always immediately after.<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"section-my-breathing-feels-easier-to-control\" class=\"article-body__section\">My breathing feels easier to control<\/h3>\n<p id=\"41ddc6b1-7778-4c52-b684-86789fd7a877\">Having been told over and over again how important the breath is during yoga, I\u2019ve always been frustrated that I can\u2019t seem to find the rhythm or connection between breath and body. Having now developed a routine, I\u2019m beginning to see what all the fuss is about.<\/p>\n<p>It translates to any workout, where you\u2019ll exhale as your muscles meet the most resistance. For example, the exhale during a push-up should be timed with the pushing-up phase, not while lowering. According to Esther Eckhart of\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.ekhartyoga.com\/articles\/practice\/the-importance-of-breath-in-yoga\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" data-analytics-id=\"inline-link\" data-url=\"https:\/\/www.ekhartyoga.com\/articles\/practice\/the-importance-of-breath-in-yoga\" data-hl-processed=\"none\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"inline-link\" data-hawk-tracked=\"hawklinks\" data-mrf-link=\"https:\/\/www.ekhartyoga.com\/articles\/practice\/the-importance-of-breath-in-yoga\">Eckhart Yoga<\/a>, breathing \u2018has everything to do with our structural alignment and the patterns in which we hold, perceive and move the body\u201d and helps the body flow through a sequence better. From an emotional standpoint, breathing helps cultivate awareness or the \u2018present moment.\u2019<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"section-my-yoga-practice-has-developed\" class=\"article-body__section\">My yoga practice has developed<\/h3>\n<p id=\"f4e8e82f-0989-4e22-a201-8e7998974d85\">All yoga teachers will tell you, \u2018It\u2019s the journey, not the destination,\u201d that matters, but I dare you to find many yogis who don\u2019t do a mental fist pump when they nail a pose they\u2019ve been working toward. After all, we\u2019re human.<\/p>\n<p>Sticking to my hot yoga routine for the last six months has helped me to hone the postures I love the most, and I\u2019m finally seeing progress. I\u2019m possibly the most impatient person I know, and even I\u2019ve learned to slow down and enjoy the process rather than the end goal. It has helped me enjoy my practice more, but still, getting within touching distance of the firefly pose was a fist pump moment \u2014 and I\u2019m not afraid to say it!<\/p>\n<figure id=\"4c5d9aa8-1761-4597-a411-0d94c408d067\" class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\"><picture data-new-v2-image=\"true\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/aUcsXB2GFtNP5uYgZ6EfiU-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/aUcsXB2GFtNP5uYgZ6EfiU-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/aUcsXB2GFtNP5uYgZ6EfiU-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/aUcsXB2GFtNP5uYgZ6EfiU-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/aUcsXB2GFtNP5uYgZ6EfiU-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/aUcsXB2GFtNP5uYgZ6EfiU-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" type=\"image\/webp\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/aUcsXB2GFtNP5uYgZ6EfiU.jpg\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/aUcsXB2GFtNP5uYgZ6EfiU-1200-80.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/aUcsXB2GFtNP5uYgZ6EfiU-1024-80.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/aUcsXB2GFtNP5uYgZ6EfiU-970-80.jpg 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/aUcsXB2GFtNP5uYgZ6EfiU-650-80.jpg 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/aUcsXB2GFtNP5uYgZ6EfiU-480-80.jpg 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/aUcsXB2GFtNP5uYgZ6EfiU-320-80.jpg 320w\" alt=\"Firefly pose outdoors\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/aUcsXB2GFtNP5uYgZ6EfiU.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/aUcsXB2GFtNP5uYgZ6EfiU.jpg\" \/><\/picture><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Shutterstock)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p id=\"5c5385a2-4875-46a6-8dc7-2770d1f54703\">I also feel stronger, which I didn&#8217;t expect and wasn&#8217;t seeking. Bodyweight exercises can build strength, and hot yoga slots into that category. So long as your muscles meet with a challenge, you can expect the results to follow. Let&#8217;s see what the next six months bring.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>I&#8217;ve been hitting the hot yoga studio more regularlyWhen you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.\u00a0Here\u2019s how it works. (Image credit: Getty Images) Share &hellip; <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[10],"tags":[11,12],"class_list":["post-53","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-yoga-fitness","tag-yoga-fitness","tag-yoga-girl"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/sokhafitness.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/53","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/sokhafitness.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/sokhafitness.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sokhafitness.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sokhafitness.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=53"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/sokhafitness.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/53\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":64,"href":"https:\/\/sokhafitness.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/53\/revisions\/64"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/sokhafitness.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=53"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sokhafitness.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=53"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sokhafitness.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=53"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}