This year has been all about healing and finding balance for me. For my new year resolution, I decided I wanted to go on a social media cleanse, specifically from my biggest guilty pleasure, instagram. It is going on four months now and it has really allowed me to get more out of my days, be more productive with my free time, spend quality time with the people I love, be present in the moment, and focus with a clear mind. I have truly began to feel much more fulfilled in my day to day. It’s been tough keeping up with deadlines while also giving myself to others to bring smiles to their faces and be there for those special moments like, birthdays, out of state visits, and being at the finish line to see my friend finish running the LA Marathon. But, I have made those moments a top priority to the best of my ability and I have slowly, but surely been finding a balance. Side note: planning ahead and physically writing in my planner has been a life saver.
What better way to help me get centered, find balance, and really let go than yoga, something I have been wanting to do for a very long time. I was encouraged by a friend and we did Modo Flow hot yoga at the Modo Yoga LA studio in Venice, which was recommended to me by my co-worker. Modo flow is quick paced and rooted in vinyasa yoga, consisting of one breath. I went to 4:30 PM Friday class with Mark and he was amazing at instructing the class. It was challenging, but not bad considering it was my first time ever taking yoga, let alone HOT yoga.
What to bring? Yoga mat, face towel to wipe the dripping sweat, yoga mat towel so you don’t slip, and an aluminum water bottle.
What to wear? For Women, I’d suggest wearing nylon leggings, a tight fitting tank, and/or a sports bra. Nylon is a much better material for the heat versus cotton, because the sweat will not show up and cotton will cling to the body more.
For men: nylon shorts and a short sleeve shirt or no shirt. Entirely up to you.
How to prep? Drink lots of water and stay hydrated beforehand to decrease chances of feeling dizzy or light headed during class. Take small sips during class and drink lots of water after class as well. Avoid heavy comfort foods before coming to class. Fuel your body with snacks instead. Fruit is a great option.
Why HOT yoga? There are so many health benefits of doing yoga in a 100 degree room. For one, it increases pulse rate and metabolism and allows the blood vessels to become more flexible and burn calories. The heat makes circulation easier and increases blood flow to the limbs. It tones the muscle and develops the lymphatic system, flushing out toxins. The heat allows you to push further into the poses, increasing flexibility and boy, it is so good for relieving stress.
For those of you who want to try out hot yoga or just try out a new studio, check out Modo . They offer the first month of unlimited classes for $50. (You can do this for each location, for a total of 3 months.) Free yoga and yoga towel rental for the first class. Also, they recommend as a beginner to go 2-3 times a week until you gain a higher tolerance.
I'm really excited to go to class again this week. How are your New Year Resolutions coming along?
Namaste. Xo!
