Source: millennialmagazine.com
In Lizette Alvarez’s article, “CITY ROOM; Stretch | Hot Vinyasa; Flow, Sweat, Stink: Nirvana” from the New York Times she addresses what hot yoga is and why do it. Lizette Alvarez is a hot yogi herself and explains how it makes her feel. As she talks about what class is made up of (which is a vinyasa flow and cool poses) as well as the feelings one is overwhelmed with during class, she also admits that it is not for everyone.
In Alvarez’s article she describes hot yoga as, “hot power vinyasa yoga, a vigorous class taught in a room steamy enough to simulate the tropics in summer.” She is addressing the fact that yes, the room is very hot, but at the same time it is not just “yoga” it is “hot power vinyasa,” which implies that there are yoga flows and that it IS a workout. Also, Alvarez says that, “It would all be miserable if it weren't so intoxicating. Muscles melt. Flexibility comes willingly.” She is showing how it is really hard being in class everyday, but the benefits for your body make it worth it. Yoga is also hard on your wallet, but if you can afford it, the benefits for your body out rule the price in their importance. Alvarez sees that class everyday is a challenge; it challenges your body and mind intensely. However, the way you feel after that heated, vinyasa yoga class makes all that pain worth it.
Also, in regard to how hot yoga makes your body feel versus regular workouts, Seith Weisberg (co-owner of bottom state yoga) said, “Right off the bat it [hot yoga] releases more endorphins in your body.” So, hot yoga being in the heat it is in, leaves the yogis feeling refreshed and happier. Although, I, as well as Alvarez, recognize that hot yoga is not for everyone. Alvarez says, “There is no question that doing hot yoga in a hot, humid room is not for everyone.” If somebody is looking to train for a certain sport, say Wrestling, it is not likely that hot yoga is for them. They are better off lifting weights. Or for runners, hot yoga does not include much cardio challenge, so it most likely is not the best workout for them either. However, for those who are looking to improve flexibility, complexion, or slim down, it is for them. And lots and lots of people are looking for all three of these benefits.
Next Research Question: What are the costs of hot yoga?
Good job incorporating and comparing how hot yoga affects different kinds of activities, as well as explaining what it literally does to your body, chemically speaking. You could add more information about how the affects of hot yoga outweigh the pricey costs and why someone should do it regardless of the cost.
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