YOGA FLAME – DO YOU LIKE IT HOT?

YOGA FLAME – WHY YOU SHOULD TRY HOT YOGA 

by Chené Koscielny

A new yoga studio, Yoga flame, has opened in Geneva offering a range of classes, including hot yoga practised in temperatures of up to 38 degrees, body conditioning and meditative sessions.

Whether you’re new to yoga or a seasoned yogi, this studio in the centre of town, could be a game changer, particularly if you like your yoga to be a good physical workout too.

As a yoga teacher and convert, I tried the studio to remind myself why I used to love hot yoga so much when I lived in London.  One class and I was hooked!

TOTAL BLISS

I know all the benefits of yoga, but I’d forgotten the absolutely blissful feeling – both physically and mentally after 90 minutes of intense physical postures in 38 degrees Celsius: The sense of calm and wellbeing – not to mention how slim you feel after losing about 2 kilos in sweat! It’s like someone had pressed the reset button in your mind and you feel beautiful and perfect, in harmony with yourself and the world.

I’d also forgotten how tough it is incidentally – but it’s so worth it.

If you’re worried about the heat, it’s good to note that not all Yoga flame classes are practised in the same heat and there are many to choose from, so you have a chance to pace yourself. The schedule proposes a blend of established hot yoga series such as Bikram, Ashtanga and Rocket, as well as more creative dynamic Vinyasa flows, body conditioning and mindful practices.

IS HOT YOGA FOR EVERYONE?

The hot yoga classes are open and accessible to all and every teacher I’ve tried so far has been brilliant in cueing the class and creating a welcoming and warm environment where everyone feels at ease. No pressure. You can pace yourself. Child’s pose and Corpse pose are always options if you start to overheat.

Do you need to be an expert yogi or super fit? No, but you need to come with an open mind and be prepared to try new things.

Oh and be prepared to sweat during a hot yoga class. A lot.

THE SEQUENCES

ASHTANGA

This sequence is at the core of many modern yoga forms and was invented in 1948 by Patthabi Jois at Mysore, India.

It is demanding and probably not for first-time yogis.

ROCKET

Rocket is a more advanced, acrobatic yoga sequence developed in the 80s by Larry Schultz in California and based on the original Ashtanga series.  Loads of fun arm balances, but no pressure!

BIKRAM

Bikram created hot yoga (38 degree Celsius, 40% humidity) in America in the 70s, and it was said to be an attempt to recreate the conditions of his hometown of Calcutta.

The course became well-known as a healing sequence for people with back or knee problems.

Good for all levels.

BARKAN

Barkan flow was created by one of Bikram’s students, Fierce Grace, who introduced it to studios in London.

Good for all levels.

VINYASA/FLOW

Vinyasa means a flowing sequence of movements linked through breathing. This is often practised to music.

These courses do not have set postures and is dynamic and creative.

Good for all levels.

YIN

The most gently of yoga sequences featuring postures on the floor which often held for 5 minutes and focuses on releasing the fascia.

Good for all levels.