RESERVE A SPACE IN CLASS VIA MINDBODY

WHAT IS IT?

Hot 26 & 2 is a “fixed” routine (same order, same poses every time). The practice is not focused on movement from one posture to another (hence there is a pause between them). Rather it concentrates on proper alignment and purposeful breathing such that the practitioner can get deeper into each posture. 

By utilizing stretching, the development of strength, a focus on balance, and working every organ, gland, system, and cell, this approach to the body through yoga leaves nothing untouched.

Often it’s referred to as a physical open-eyed meditation. By that they mean it’s very much a workout with cardio strength and stretching, but with minimal movement. It is very grounding and safe. The entire routine, from the order of the postures, to its range of motions, covers the body from head-to -toe.

HOW DOES IT WORK?

Like an external massage whereby touch stimulates blood to rush to a particular area and increases circulation, when we hold a pose we create greater circulation to a concentrated area once we release the pose. Circulation is thus increased from when the pose began.

The entire routine has over 20 “tourniquets”. A tourniquet is when circulation is constricted. By purposely slowing down the blood flow, upon release, the blood rushes through the arteries, veins, and surrounding areas. Circulation is pivotal in reducing inflammation. 

WHY THE HEAT?

The heat aspect allows muscles, ligaments and tendons a further range, in a safer way. Everything from lower-back, shoulders, and tight hamstrings get stretched and become more flexible helping avoid injury and an inflexible body. The heat also has us burn more calories doing the same movements as compared to doing them a cooler room.  The poses strengthen & tone muscles, and when done in the heat allows toxins to flow from the pores. 

WHAT ARE ITS PHYSICAL BENEFITS?

Physical aspects of the routine are perfect for those seeking balance, strength, flexibility, or better cardio. It is great for those seeking weight loss, since it boosts the metabolism via the poses. Its cardio aspects are great for the heart and lungs.

After a Hot 26 & 2 class, your heart, lungs and muscles have worked harder giving your respiration, metabolism, and stamina a boost creating greater weight loss during and even after your workout. 

WHAT ARE THE MENTAL BENEFITS?

We all have stress. However, too much stress leads to poor mental and physical health.  “To control the emotions, you must control the breath” So much of our mindset is reflected in our breathing. Expressions like “I can’t catch my breath”, or “My heart was beating out if my chest” all reflect our bodies’ reaction to stressors. The breath is a key component to link the mind with the body. By consciously breathing with control, a physiological alteration of mental state can begin and a calming can take over. Thus the Hot 26 & 2 both begins & ends with breathing exercises: One to get you in a state for starting this physical routine, and the final one to that acts as a final detox and readies you to wind down.