Yoga has been a part of my weekly routine for many months. I tend to practice for 15-20 minutes a few times a week in my bedroom, using YouTube yoga teachers such as @YogawithAdrienne. Though practising yoga in your own home is undoubtedly a cheaper and more convenient option for students, like myself, it is nice to experience an in-person class once in a while.
When I first heard about 'Hot Yoga,' I couldn't wait to try it out! I downloaded the Hotpod Yoga app and booked my first 3 sessions at the Jesmond studio using a starter membership (£15 for the opportunity to attend classes for 10 consecutive days).
The idea of attending an in-person yoga class (especially one in a climate-controlled environment) was intimidating and well out of my comfort zone. Before booking my first session I felt apprehensive about many different things, from the heated pod, to not having the right level of experience or the right yoga clothes/equipment. Yet as soon as I got inside the pod, all of my anxiety and apprehension dissipated. The warmth was less of an intense sauna heat and more of a warm embrace, like a lovely calming bath, and the diffused essential oils, purple lighting and tranquil music helped to create a peaceful space.
I was surprised by the range of different people attending the class. Women of all different ages and body types, and even some younger men attended my first session! The difference in everyone's physical ability made it easier to relax and not get caught up in thoughts of whether I was 'fit' or 'flexible' to be in the pod. It felt like a completely non-judgemental space that was welcome to everyone.
The actual classes have been amazing. Though it can get a little intense halfway through when the heat starts to get to you (and the instructor keeps asking you to get into downward dog), it feels incredible to be completely in your body and present in the moment.
Disclaimer: you will sweat A LOT. The pod's temperature is set to 37 degrees Celsius, so whilst it may feel like a warm hug at first it does start to take effect as you're moving your body. The heat makes you feel more flexible and grounded and makes it difficult for your mind to wander, as you're so focused on your next movement. It feels unnatural at first, but the key is to embrace the heat instead of resisting it. With a towel and a bottle of cold water, you'll be ready to take on the pod!
Of course, as students, the question of affordability is always at the front of our minds. A single session at Hotpod Yoga, without any pre-paid memberships or starter prices, is £14. For 5 class pass it's £60 and for 10 classes it's £100. There are many membership options available, which you can explore through the Hotpod website or app. Personally, I believe that the starter offer of £15 for a possible ten consecutive days of yoga was a great option- I only booked 4 sessions within my 10-day window but that has already saved me £40. Additionally, if you refer a friend with your unique member code they get a free session and you get £10 credit added to your account!
So, while Yoga classes may seem unaffordable for university students, somewhere like Hotpod Yoga has start-up options that are amazing for people with less disposable income. Practising yoga from the comfort of your own home will indeed save you a lot of money and time, but the experience of an in-person hot yoga class is unique and transformative. Even if it's just a one-time thing or once a month, hot yoga is the perfect way to sweat it out!