5 Ways to Turn Up the Heat

A yoga practice isn’t static. It’s constantly moving, evolving and progressing – and that’s just how it should be! But just like with other workouts, it’s easy to fall into a rut if you don’t constantly make it a point to challenge yourself. Fall is the perfect time to focus on progressing even more on the mat. Here are five things that you can start doing right now to turn up the heat on your own practice!

Switch up your routine

One of the most tried and true methods for getting out of a workout rut is to switch up your routine, and the same holds true with yoga. Over time, your body becomes accustomed to performing the same exercises, and the workout that once challenged you can stop yielding the same results. Confuse your body by throwing something new at it. Try a different class format. Attend class at a different time of day. Take class with a new instructor whose teaching style is different than what you’re used to.

Build heat with Ujjayi breath

Ujjayi breath has a ton of benefits, from helping you maintain focus to setting the rhythm to your practice to signaling you when it’s time to slow down. One of the other great benefits of Ujjayi breathing is that it creates internal body heat! This helps to prepare your body for a rigorous class, so it’s especially important to focus on your breathing at the start of class. Nothing will literally turn up the heat on your practice like your Ujjayi breath!

Add inversions to your practice

We know inversions are difficult, but that’s precisely why you should add them to your practice! Start slow at first – Crow Pose is a great starting place. From there, expand into Side Crow or Flying Squirrel. With help from your instructor, begin adding even more difficult inversions like Forearm Stand and Hand Stand. Inversions require lots of core strength, upper arm strength and focus. Did we mention that they’re really fun, too?!

Take advanced modifications

When you’re in class and your teacher calls out an opportunity to take an advanced modification – go for it! Take that half-bind, grow your branches and fly!

Improve your alignment

Attaining the proper alignment can make all the difference in the world. When you’re in proper alignment, you take stress off of your joints and provide your muscles with the maximum benefit that the posture offers. Pay particular attention to the cues your teacher gives when guiding you into a posture. Make small adjustments and notice how those adjustments feel in your body.