Nursing professional Devon Berry is a Midwest native who recently put roots down in the Pacific Northwest. After occupying leadership and faculty roles at Wright State University, University of Cincinnati, and Cedarville University, he has most recently served as the executive associate dean at Oregon Health and Science University (OHSU) School of Nursing. An experienced associate dean in nursing, Devon Berry prioritizes health in his daily life by trying different exercises such as yoga.
For the uninitiated, yoga can be intimidating. There are twisty positions like pigeon and frog, and with many studios being brightly lit with wall-to-wall mirrors—you can see every move you and everyone else makes, good and bad. Hot yoga classes add another layer of complexity. With a heated environment comes new benefits (deeper stretching, greater flexibility) and challenges (lots of sweat and feeling hot). Below are four things to know before attending a hot yoga class.
Time Hydration and Eating
For rooms that range from 98-100 degrees, hydrating up to 24 hours beforehand is ideal to dispel heat more efficiently during class time. Eating at least two hours beforehand will also help prevent lightheadedness. Make sure to keep the food light, especially the closer you get to class time. Think fruit, nuts, and peanut butter toast, less pasta and pizza.
Read Up on the Lingo
Crow pose, pigeon, child’s pose—the instructor can help you with these positions and more if you’re unfamiliar. But going in with some knowledge beforehand will help your confidence, which in turn may help you focus more on how you feel and less on mechanics.
Arrive Early
Regardless if it’s your first time, try to arrive 10-15 minutes early so you can have enough time to find a locker, fill your water bottle, and grab a spot you’ll feel comfortable practicing. If the instructor is available, it’s also a good time to ask them any questions you may have.
Come Equipped
Bring a water bottle, towel, and mat if you can. Most places have mat rentals and water if you prefer to travel minimally. Wear sweat-wicking clothes that won’t billow out when moving through poses, and make sure to bring clothes to change into after or a towel to put on your seat if driving home.
Devon Berry 