Yoga is not just a fad that seems to be here to stay. It is an ancient discipline that is growing in acceptance largely in thanks to the rise in alternative medicine and eastern health practice.
See also: How (And Why) To Start Meditating in St. Louis
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There are several types of yoga practice, so let’s do a quick vocabulary lesson:
- Vinyasa: This type of yoga is the most common style taught on the yoga DVDs. It is a fluid several poses in a laid-back style that is good for beginners and anyone who wants to find get centered and become more limber.
- Bikram: Developed by its namesake Bikram Choudhury, Bikram yoga is a sequence of 26 poses performed with precision in a hot room affectionately called the “torture chamber.” Bikram is for the more experienced and hardcore yogis. As it says on bikramyoga.com, “99% right is 100% wrong.”
- Hot yoga: Using the principles of Bikram yoga (but without the intimidation of referring to your space as a torture chamber or the emphasis on exacting precision,) hot yoga is a must-try for yogis of all levels. The heated rooms allow for your muscles to relax and accept the poses, but the beginner can enjoy a class just as much as the expert.
Yoga is a beautiful practice and there is a style for every person. Hot yoga’s rich practice is grounding, stretching, and empowering. If you are looking to start a yoga practice for the first time or want a change of pace, give hot yoga a chance.
St. Louis is home to an ever-growing list of yoga studios, but there are three hot yoga studios that stand out from the crowd.
Prana Yoga is centrally located in Des Peres and is known in the area for the Bikram-inspired hot yoga sessions, but you won’t find any torture chambers here. The instructors are warm and welcoming and learn your name quickly. While the specialty is a more intense style, the studio also leads relaxed group sessions, with or without the hot room. 11771 Manchester Road, Des Peres.
Looking for something closer to the city? Hot Yoga St. Louis is the place to go. With an impressively diverse class schedule, you can be sure there is a class that fits your calendar. Last year the owners added juicing to their studio’s offerings, so after your class replenish your nutrients with a bottle of fresh juice. (Psst! Right now there is a deal on Living Social – 30 days unlimited yoga for $30!) 3121 S Grand Blvd, St. Louis.
Are you up for the challenge of traditional Bikram, but don’t want to submit yourself to a torture chamber? BYC is for you. The instructors here are engaging and encouraging, and classes are open to yogis of all levels. While there aren’t as many classes offered in the early morning like other studios, evening classes are available as late as 8:30pm, so you can definitely get your Bikram on after work. If you’re new, be sure to take advantage of the introductory offer of unlimited yoga for $49. 16231 Baxter Road, Chesterfield.
Reminder: Always check with your doctor before starting a new fitness regimen.
Namaste.
Amanda Kintz is a registered nurse, a veggie-loving wife and mom, and author of the blog Crunchy Hippie Life. She can usually be found eating delicious food or drinking yet another cup of coffee.
