Not for the Faint of Heart

Last week I mentioned I was taking a hot yoga class this weekend and I wanted to share a bit of my experience with you. If you have never done Bikram yoga before, let me assure you, it is not for the faint of heart! While I absolutely loved it, don't let me fool you-it was intense!

Upon arriving 20 minutes early with an empty stomach, I was told that my yoga for the day would be to stay in the room for the entire 90 minutes-um, yikes! I must admit that it was tough feat adjusting to the 105 degree room while getting through all 26 poses, but when all was said and done, I felt invigorated, challenged and totally exhausted! I would rank it up there with one of the single most challenging exercises I've ever done, and one I will certainly do again!

And did I mention that studies have shown you can burn up to 630 calories an hour? And keep in mind these are 90 minute classes! Just be prepared to be drenched from head to toe by the time you finish (think hot sauna for an extended period of time).

All in all, I would definitely recommend trying one out if you're looking for something fresh to throw in your workout routine. Classes can be pricey, but look for local specials and keep an eye out for groupon and livingsocial deals like the one I found. That way if you hate it, you aren't out much money and you still tried something new. Happy exercising!

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Have a Fun Weekend!

I love how short this week felt, though I definitely have some catching up to do around the house this weekend! But on a fun note, I'm trying out a new hot yoga class tomorrow. Generally hot yoga studios are really pricey, but thanks to a livingsocial deal I purchased a few weeks ago, I got 10 sessions for less than half the normal price! I'm looking forward to uping the intensity with a 90-minute sweat session! And if all goes as planned, I may also have a painted bedroom to share next week!

Hope your weekend is lovely!  

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Sick Me Out!

I am generally an extremely clean person. Though I must admit, I completely shocked myself when the other day during yoga class I realized I have never actually cleaned my yoga mat. This realization came to me as I was in what should be a relaxing child's pose and it hit me, "Hmm, my sweaty feet touch the same surface I am resting my forehead on." {Insert intense shudder!}

I immediately went searching for the best way to clean my mat and found it to be suprisingly simple! Thank goodness because I don't have time to mess around with timely cleaning techniques! It turns out yoga mats are machine washable, as long as they don't go through the spin cycle. Though for routine cleanings you can simply make a mixture of one part warm water and three parts gentle cleaner such as Woolite. After applying the solution to your mat, gently rub with a soft cloth or sponge, rinse and hang to dry. And voila, you've got a clean and appropriately sticky mat!

Needless to say, I will be making this a regular part of my yoga practice!

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I Miss This

Two years ago, on a morning such as this, I would have woken up about 6am, worked out, made lunch for my husband, woken him up and spent a little quality time together before he headed to work. And then I would have leisurely enjoyed oatmeal and coffee before starting my day.

This morning has been that very way, and you know what? I miss it! It's funny because two years ago I was looking for work and didn't appreciate the time I had and now I am working two jobs and longing for more time like this. Crazy how your circumstance can make the same situation feel so different.

Don't get me wrong, I love what I do, and I wouldn't want to not be working, I'm simply trying to strike a healthy balance.

This morning I am preparing to teach my first yoga class tonight. I am so excited! I've been practicing and practicing the past few months in hopes of looking like I really know what I'm doing;)

I will say, compared to the first fitness classes I taught 2 years ago, I am now way more confident in my ability to teach well! And I am LOVING yoga more than ever!

And with my last swig of coffee, I'm off to perfect my Warrior 4...

Merry Monday!

ps~check out my pretty dahlias!

April Happenings

I know you can only read so much into my tone, but know this: I am completely and overwhelmingly giddy when I say, HAPPY APRIL! It is after all, my very favorite month! And not just because my birthday is next week (although it does contribute quite a bit), but Spring is in full swing and I am running my first half marathon on the 18th (and hoping to finish in 2 hours)! And something I haven't mentioned yet, I am currently becoming a certified yoga instructor(!), something I've always wanted to do and am finally pursuing at the request of several clients at the studio. In just a few months I will be teaching my very own yoga classes (which you should totally come to if you're in the area!). Clearly you can see, this excitement is legit.

And as for today, I'm just watching my back for suspicious April Fools' play:) Have a lovely day!