Science Proves: Hot is Better!

Scientific studies support several health benefits of hot yoga, especially Bikram-style yoga, which is practiced in heated environments around 105°F (40°C) with high humidity. Research published in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry found that participants attending hot yoga sessions experienced significant improvement in these areas:

Emotionally: Significant reductions in depression symptoms, with over 60% showing marked improvement. Other mental health studies highlight reductions in anxiety and perceived stress, particularly in sedentary individuals.

Physically: Physiologically, hot yoga has been shown to increase heart rate to levels comparable to brisk walking, enhance cardiovascular fitness, and improve flexibility and joint mobility through heat-assisted stretching.

Bone density/weight loss: Additional research suggests that hot yoga may support bone density, particularly in premenopausal women, and help with weight management, with participants burning approximately 330–460 calories per session.

Brain: At the cellular level, hot yoga increases heat shock proteins and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which are involved in cellular repair and brain health.

Make sure to come to class well hydrated, listen to the body and rest when needed. It can take time to get used to the heat, so be patient.

Stay hot,

Your Hot Yoga Plus Team