This page will focus monthly, on a different health product ranging from the latest sneakers to a new fitness DVD. The purpose is to keep you informed about those items you are using to stay healthy. I invite recommendations, suggestions and feedback about any item. It’s sometimes nice to have other people be the guinea pigs or give their feedback, as we determine “will this work for us?” I enjoy providing people with information and resources to help them make informed decisions about their health and wellness, whether they decide to use the information or not.  

This month’s “product” of the month is Bikram Yoga otherwise known as Hot Yoga. I have often been very curious about this form of yoga. I know a few people who have taken it and loved it. But I am still skeptical. It is probably due to the 105 degree temperature in the room and the smell of sweaty people all breathing heavy and pushing the air out of their mouths. Yep, that probably has a lot to do with it.  But, I think I may try it this summer to see what the hype is all about. There is something to be said for sweating out all of the toxins in your body WITHOUT having to get on the treadmill. It can’t be all bad. 

So what is Hot Yoga? It is a series of yoga poses done in a heated room. The room is usually maintained at a temperature of 95-100 degrees. This type of vigorous yoga session at this temperature promotes profuse sweating which rids the body of toxins. It also makes the body very warm, and therefore more flexible.

What is Bikram Yoga? Living yoga master Bikram Choudhury is a Hot Yoga innovator. His method of Hot Yoga is a set series of 26 yoga poses, including two pranayama exercises, each of which is performed twice in a single 90 minute class. The class is ideally held in a 105 degree heated room with 40% humidity. 

Keep in mind the following things when doing Hot or Bikram Yoga:

- It is essential to have your own yoga mat and towel when doing Hot Yoga since you will be sweating so much. Students tend to wear very little clothing for the same reason.

- Make sure to drink plenty of water before and after class so you don’t get dehydrated. It is not advisable to eat during the two hours before class.

- If you want to try Bikram’s method, make sure the Hot Yoga studio you choose has been certified to teach Bikram Yoga.

- Hot Yoga is not advised for pregnant women, since it can raise the core body temperature.

If anyone has tried it and wants to share their positive experiences, please send me a comment. I would be interested in hearing more as I go in search of a studio. Also, if you leave in the DC area and have a recommendation of a good studio that I should try, please let me know.