I went to Bikram Yoga for the first time yesterday. If you are unfamiliar, Wikipedia to the rescue:

Bikram yoga is done in a room heated to 105°F (40.5°C) and accompanied by specific dialogue. People of all levels, ages and body types usually practice together with a teacher acting as a guide, taking the class through the ninety-minute series. More…

Until a week ago, I was only vaguely familiar w/ ‘hot yoga,’ and having never really done yoga in general, it may have been a little aggressive to start with Bikram. That being said, it was an amazing experience. It was incredibly relaxing, but very physically demanding. I have never sweated so much in my life, my clothes were completely soaked through by the time I left.

The instructor told me that because it was my first time, my only goal should be to stay in the room. We started slow and it wasn’t until after the 4th or 5th pose (of 26) that I had the sudden and uncontrollable urge to pass out or throw up. Where did THAT come from?! I sat down, took a few breaths and realized my goal for the class was shot. I have never appreciated 68 degrees as much as I did when I walked out of that room. I rested for a few minutes in the locker room and went back in with the understanding I had to pay better attention to my body.

I got home and told Jef my clothes were soaked to the bone, I was dazed and sore and couldn’t wait to go back.

It’s hard to explain. Even the girl who asked me to the class is surprised I want to go again. The stretches were amazingly satisfying and the atmosphere was so relaxing and still. I can see how much strength and flexibility could be gained by regular classes.

Also, being able to lay down in the middle of an exercise class and not get funny looks is really appealing.