By kkhealthcarecentre 
Hot yoga involves performing exercises in a room with high heat and humidity. This setup mimics the climate of India, where yoga originated. Often referred to as “Bikram yoga,” named after its creator Bikram Choudhury, this practice is typically done in a room heated to about 40.6 degrees Celsius. The session includes 26 different postures and two breathing exercises, although many instructors modify these routines based on their experiences.
Health Benefits of Hot Yoga
1. Detoxification
Our bodies produce toxins as a byproduct of metabolism, which can lead to health issues if not eliminated. Hot yoga, or Bikram yoga, is an effective way to cleanse the body. Exercising in a temperature of 105 degrees Fahrenheit increases sweating, which helps flush out these toxins. After a 90-minute session, you’ll likely feel both relaxed and rejuvenated. The heat also helps your body adapt to warm climates, which is beneficial if you’re used to cooler environments.
2. Increased Focus
Hot yoga is excellent for enhancing focus and concentration. If you struggle with staying on task, regular hot yoga sessions can be incredibly helpful. Although demanding, this type of yoga rewards your efforts by improving your mental resilience. The exercises typically start with physical postures followed by deep breathing exercises, repeated several times until exhaustion. Over time, this practice can make you more focused and determined, qualities that carry over into your personal and professional life.
3. Flexible Body
Hot yoga significantly boosts flexibility and strength. If you spend long hours sitting, this practice can help relieve muscle tension and stress. It prevents muscle injuries and accelerates their healing by keeping muscles and joints flexible and well-lubricated. Practicing hot yoga for 90 minutes once a week can enhance your flexibility. Some beneficial poses include downward-facing dog, child’s pose, and seated forward bend.
4. No More Shallow Breathing
In hot yoga, postures are synchronized with rhythmic breathing. Proper breathing is crucial for gaining the full benefits of the practice. For instance, many Bikram yoga moves require you to inhale and exhale at specific times. With practice, your lungs and diaphragm become stronger, allowing you to breathe deeply with ease. For beginners, it’s important to follow the instructor’s guidance carefully. Hot yoga is a scientifically proven method for managing respiratory conditions like asthma. It helps improve breathing naturally without relying on inhalers.
5. Relief from Chronic Pain
Chronic pain from injuries like plantar fasciitis or hip flexor strain often requires ongoing pain management. While diet changes and physical therapy can help, hot yoga is also clinically proven to reduce chronic pain. Recent studies show that hot yoga practitioners have more grey matter in brain areas related to pain management. The National Institutes of Health affirm that hot yoga can positively impact the brain concerning chronic pain.
Conclusion
Hot yoga offers detoxifying, strengthening benefits, and, as a social exercise, it can be a fun and motivating group activity. Since it is safe for all ages, you can practice it once or twice a week without concerns over adverse effects.