Toronto Uncovered

If this week’s cool temperatures are an indication of anything, its that Torontonians will not be blessed with an Indian Summer. This time of year is always a little bit difficult for me – I don’t adjust well to the lack of sunlight and cold weather. Staying active and warm has always helped – hot yoga is the perfect remedy for my winter doldrums.

I first started practicing hot yoga while I was living in the Annex during University and recently picked it up again in the East end. I am no stranger to yoga, having taken some form for years.  Hot yoga, which is done at a temperature of 100 degrees Fahrenheit, has certain benefits which I find are absent in other forms.

First, I am completely in ‘the moment’ for the entire 90 minutes of class. My mind is fully focused on the different movements and poses, never drifting to other topics. In other forms of yoga, I find my mind wanders and I am rarely in a truly meditative state. Clearing my head of daily distractions allows me to recharge and gives me a much better outlook and perspective.

Second, the physical benefits are unmatched by any other form I have taken. In one 90 minute class you can burn anywhere between 1000 and 1700 calories. The class is intense and challenging from beginning to end, providing a true sense of accomplishment when completed. Hot yoga also increases my metabolism, flexibility and overall strength more than any other form. I have even noticed improvements in the health of my skin and hair.

Third, because of the heat, you will sweat more than you ever believed possible – if you’re not dripping from head to toe within a few minutes, you’re not human! This provides an amazing detox and flush of your system, unparalleled in any other exercise I have encountered.

There are two main forms of hot yoga: Bikram and Moksha.  I have taken both and prefer Bikram. The main difference is that Bikram is the same every class. You go through 26 predefined poses, holding them for a specific amount of time each. Each pose has its place in the sequence for a reason. Good Bikram instructors will explain the different poses and their benefits as you go through them. Moksha is more flexible, with similar poses as Bikram, but not necessarily and any predefined order. I found Bikram to be more difficult, and therefore, I had a greater sense of achievement after class. It really comes down to your own personal preference.

If you’re looking for good studios to go in and around town check out the following – I have tried all of these, and find them to be clean, well priced, and above all else staffed with excellent instructors.

Bikram Yoga Centre (42 Colborne Lane)

Bikram Yoga Annex (720 Spadina Avenue)

Moksha Yoga Downtown (577 Wellington Street West)

Namaste!