Infrared Yoga: Coming in Hot
FAR infrared yoga is not your typical blazing, forced air, “hot” yoga situation. It’s different. It’s soothing, it’s penetrative, it’s relaxing to your soul. The research tends to agree that FAR infrared heat elicits its healing effects in very vital ways. You’re likely wondering how this differs from the average “hot” yoga class. The major difference is forced hot air. The type employed during a “hot” yoga class tends to blow allergens and debris into the very space you’re manifesting healing from. And, because it’s forced air, oxygen levels are depleted leaving you to feel fatigued. The heat emitted during a FAR infrared yoga class is the same as what you experience under the sun, minus the harmful UVA/UVB rays. So have you tried it? If not, fall is the perfect time to allow your body to honor inward reflection and transformation by creating “space” through FAR infrared healing (by expelling toxins, heavy metals, and pollutants) to prepare your body to welcome new information for the season ahead. But How Do I Know It’s “Working?”Well, how do you feel? If you once woke with creaking joints in the morning, do you still? Have you tried this style of yoga for a specific health concern? What variables have shifted or improved? Has your energy increased? Are you sleeping better? Are you happier? Ask yourself, “How am I feeling deep within and how is that a reflection of each layer of myself?” Benefits for General Wellness
- Improved flexibility
- Increased focus & mindfulness (blasts anxiety)
- Reduction and elimination in metabolic waste, making it great to combine with a weight management plan
- A mini facial-- think tinier pores, plump hydrated skin, and reduced acne (go regularly and you may even see a decrease in fine lines and depth of wrinkles)
Immunology
- Autoimmune complications such as pain, depression, and emotional concerns are reduced (if you experience autoimmune rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and thyroid conditions, you’re a good candidate)
- Oncology & hematology (depending upon the type of cancer you’re experiencing, FAR infrared may be an excellent option to improve cellular wellness)
Sports-Related
- Improves injury healing rate
- Helps prevents injury by strengthening soft tissues and their communication with one another
One of the most popular, unexpected benefits I’ve had people tell me about is the effect it’s had on their relationships by improving coping and problem-solving strategies. When we create space to tune in, we allow ourselves the enriching opportunity to respond to all of the cues. Where to Try ItWe like to get our FAR infrared vibe on at Y7, the “original hip-hop studio”, which has locations in West Hollywood, Brooklyn, and Manhattan. (There’s just something about doing yoga in the heat while listening to Kendrick Lamar over the speakers.) Depending on whether you’re hoping to fill the well with energy or slow down after a long day, drop in on “We Flow Hard” or “Slow Burn”. And if that’s not cutting it, try a class by candlelight.For those of you who just plain don’t like yoga but still want to experience FAR infrared, many pilates studios, gyms, and holistic healing centers now offer FAR infrared sauna therapy. In this environment you’ll be relaxing in a sitting position for 15 to 20 minutes. While I often suggest to my clients to use a FAR infrared sauna at least twice per week for specific health concerns, it’s always best to align with your trusted integrative health specialist to see what they suggest first. Do you have a favorite FAR infrared studio you like? Please share your experience with us!
*Research, coupled with FAR infrared yoga participants, reported the above information regarding benefits.
Christine has dedicated her career to helping others understand the science of happiness and its powerful effects on everyday human health by harnessing the power of the epigenetic landscape. She is available for both private and professional consultations. Please contact her here.
