Annie Vail: Hot yoga is one of my core life tenets, having discovered it during a very challenging time eight years ago. It has transformed my entire body, including losing weight and gaining muscle. More importantly, it has enabled me to be in touch with my body and my mind-body relationship, in a way I had never known before. I looked all over Portland for a studio that teaches hot yoga, but does so in a way that is mindful, has an atmosphere of zen-like positivity, and allows the teachers to lead the class in the way they choose. I finally found it in HYFL! Thank you!!
Claire Gauntner: I've spent a lot of my life doubting myself and worrying about outcomes. Can I do that? I don't think so. Well, maybe. No, I won't even try. About a month ago I did my first tripod headstand. It was during Jill's 60 minute power vinyasa class. I didn't even realize that we were working up to it and then all of a sudden she said 'Ok, now tripod headstand.' And I just did it! There wasn't time for doubt or worry or fear. Just time to breathe and go.
Becky Lerner: You know tree pose, where you stand on one leg and bring your palms to touch at your heart? I was hopeless at it. I used to falter every time. Id cringe when I heard the instructor announce it because I knew Id soon be swaying this way and that, hopping awkwardly around; trying but inevitably failing to balance. Enter Hot Yoga For Life. One recent evening, as the sweat seeped from my pores, the teacher explained the minute mechanics of the posture. It worked, and I feel like a new woman. No more embarrassment. Success!
Ken Bonnin: I've always been impressed with the staff at HYFL, and in the last few weeks took some classes by Kyra and Sara which were off the charts. Sara's class had about 5 last minute students drop in, and with grace and ease packed the noon class. Everyone was a bit off-center with all the delays and she started us gently in some seated meditations, breathing, then we eased into moving, and next thing you know were off and running. Very skillful reading of the room! These are very accomplished teachers and I dearly enjoy the classes. See you around the studio...
Each month HYFL will publish a story of the power and impact of yoga and HYFL in your life. Please submit your story along with a photo for chance to win 2 weeks of unlimited free yoga. Submit your story in maximum 100 words to info@hotyogaforlife.com
It can be story of how you felt when you first touched your toes, or when you overcame your personal challenge, or tried a new posture, or ways in which yoga impacted your life, relationship, health, or anything else that inspires you.