The stress of the winter months can leave all of us a little tight in the neck. While some turn to stretching to relieve the discomfort, others are experimenting with hot yoga.
Bikram is one type of hot yoga practiced in a room heated to 80 to 105 degrees Fahrenheit, with humidity around 40 percent. Vinyasa, also known as “flow yoga,” is another type with a faster pace.
At first glance, performing yoga in sauna-like temperatures may sound less than appealing. But with a bit of practice, hot yoga can improve your flexibility, help you burn more calories, and reduce stress level. Other benefits include building bone density, easing depression, and getting a heart-pumping workout.
Siri Om Yoga Studio and Wellness
Located in the heart of Old Town Fairfax, this studio was founded by Siri Om Trosper, a yogini with decades of experience as a practitioner. Hot Vinyasa-style classes are held on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, with occasional time slots on the weekend. New student discounts are offered. 3950 University Dr., Fairfax, drop-in classes start at $35
YogaSix Burke
Owned by Xponential Fitness, the parent company behind StrechLab, YogaSix offers a multitude of classes in several yoga practices. For newbies, start with Y6 Hot, a course focused on improving flow while strengthening and stretching your body. When you’re ready to kick it up a notch, try Y6 Sculpt & Flow, which uses dumbbells and bodyweight exercises for a strength and cardio workout in a hot yoga environment. 5765-U Burke Centre Pkwy., Burke, membership required
Beyond Hot Yoga
This studio offers comprehensive classes that range in length from 60 to 90 minutes, each performing a 26-posture sequence with two breathing exercises. Try the 60-minute FLOW with music class, concluding with a brief meditation to shake things up. Strength and conditioning classes are also offered, as well as non-heated yoga. 5673 Stone Rd., Ste. A, Centreville, drop-in classes start at $30
Sol to Soul Yoga
With hot classes offered throughout the week, even those with the busiest schedules will find convenient options for getting their stretch on. Sol to Soul also offers a handful of traditionally non-heated practices in heated environments, like its heated Yang & Yin class. 671 Garrisonville Rd., Stafford, drop-in classes start at $22
My BodYoga
Committed to nurturing your conscious awareness, this studio offers a wide range of classes, memberships, and even Reiki energy healing sessions. Newcomers are always welcome and can take advantage of the $29 new student price for a week of unlimited classes. 2570 Dynasty Loop, Woodbridge, drop-in classes start at $20
Five Peaks Power Yoga
Two area locations and a wide selection of classes make Five Peaks an option for both beginners and hot yoga pros. Take your practice a step further with yoga therapy, Tibetan singing bowl healing, or a traditional Thai massage. 19357 Diamond Lake Dr., Leesburg; 201 N. Maple Ave., Ste. G, Purcellville, drop-in classes start at $25
Feature image courtesy LIGHTFIELD STUDIOS/stock.adobe.com
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