img_6443

How ironic is it that the style of yoga that I once claimed to hate is the style of yoga that ultimately led me to practice multiple times a week? Hot yoga is now my most treasured workout, and I look forward to stepping onto my mat prior to each and every class. Now that it’s a constant in my life, I can’t imagine my wellbeing without it.

Now, let me give you a little background as to why I came to the conclusion that I “hated” hot yoga. Once upon a time, I decided to check out a new yoga studio without taking the time to read the class description, and low and behold, I arrived at a hot yoga studio. I went into that class with the mindset that the heat would make me feel claustrophobic, and what do you know? It did. This was when I was practicing yoga sporadically, averaging about one class per month, so this experience did little to encourage me to practice more regularly.

Then, one random day, I had the overwhelming desire to attend another hot yoga class, and the rest is history. To this day, I can’t explain what came over me, but I’m so incredibly grateful that I listened to my heart. I went into that class with the mindset that it would make me feel grounded in a way that I never had before, and what do you know? It did. You see, mindset is everything.

Spirituality aside, there are several other reasons why my love for hot yoga runs deep. I am not an innately flexible person, so the heat is a game changer for my flexibility. I can touch my toes, for crying out loud! While that may seem like a small feat for some, it’s a huge accomplishment for someone who hasn’t been able to do so since elementary school. Secondly, the heat makes me sweat like a maniac, allowing for an intense detox that makes me feel completely refreshed. Last, but certainly not least, the heat allows for some intense breath work. Yep, you read correctly! The reason that I once “hated” hot yoga is now one of the reasons that I love it. It is undoubtedly more challenging to breathe amidst the heat, which forces me to be more mindful about my breathing. In turn, I feel more meditative and connected.

As with all hobbies, investing in high-quality products can make the world of a difference. See below for some products that have rocked my yogi world!

Sacred Frankincense Essential Oil by Young Living
The (Small) Towel by lululemon
eKO Mat by Manduka
Insulated Water Bottle by Hydro Flask
Breathe Again Roll-On by Young Living

eKO Mat by Manduka

I did a ton of research before I took the chance on a yoga mat, and this was the lucky winner. It has yet to disappoint! There are a few reasons why I’m obsessed with it. Its density is not too thin or too thick; instead, it’s juuust riiight. It’s also got excellent grip to it, which is particularly important for hot yoga. I’m sweaty and clumsy AF, so I need all the help I can get in that department. Perhaps the reason why I love it the most is that it’s made from non-Amazon natural tree rubber. This means that it is made from both sustainable and non-toxic material, and you know I’m all about that life.

The (Small) Towel by lululemon

Have I mentioned that I’m a sweater? These incredibly absorbent towels allow me to look somewhat presentable after class. However, they serve a purpose during class as well! Made of microfiber, they allow for additional grip. Because my hands tend to slip the most, I keep one of these towels at the top of my mat. For being as absorbent as they are, I was pleasantly surprised by how little room they take up in my bag.

Insulated Water Bottle by Hydro Flask

While drinking water during yoga practice is generally discouraged due to its interference with the ushna (heat) that the body has worked to generate, there are times in which pausing to drink water feels necessary. In these instances, I want my water to be cool and refreshing. That’s why I’m obsessed with my Hydro Flask. It keeps my water chilled for an absurd number of hours, so the higher temperatures of hot yoga studios have nothing on this bad boy. I have the 32 oz wide mouth bottle, but the world is your oyster!

Sacred Frankincense Essential Oil by Young Living

Although similar, traditional Frankincense (Boswellia carteri) and Sacred Frankincense (Boswellia sacra) are two distinct plant species. Traditional Frankincense is indigenous to Somalia and is considered the “workhorse” of the two because it’s so versatile. Sacred Frankincense, on the other hand, is indigenous to Oman and is thought to be the variety that is referred to in the Bible. Outside of Oman citizens and Saudi royalty, Gary Young (the founder of Young Living) is the only individual with access to this sacred crop. How freaking cool! As it has a higher vibrational frequency than traditional Frankincense, it is most commonly used for spiritual and meditation purposes. This is precisely why I use it just prior to engaging in yoga practice. First, I add a couple drops to the palms of my hands and rub it onto the back of my neck. Then, I cup my hands around my nose and mouth, taking several deep inhalations. It is incredibly grounding, and it shifts my state of mind from overdrive to calm within minutes.

Breathe Again Roll-On by Young Living

This powerhouse essential oil blend is comprised of Peppermint, Myrtle, Copaiba, Blue Cypress, and four varieties of Eucalyptus. In combination, these oils are known to open up respiratory channels and aid in effective breathing. Because breath work is a foundational component of yoga practice, I’m sure it’s a no brainer as to why I incorporate this essential oil blend into mine. I especially love that it comes in a roller bottle so that I can quickly roll it onto my chest just prior to class.