It has really impacted my life as I continue to grow, change and develop, especially during this pandemic.

“One day while having conversation about my practice with Ian, he shared with me and I quote “miracles happen in that room”. Now, as a result, I enter the room expecting a miracle.”

Jimmy Hammond

When was your first class? How did it go?

My first class was in 2008. I tried hot yoga and enjoyed it but drifted, only attending on and off. I attended only to get the heat and sweat but did not attend consistently.

I always had a palate for yoga and Transcendental Meditation but really had no idea that you were supposed to relax and improve your consciousness. In 2015 I was scheduled to have hip surgery and my doctors indicated that to prepare for a successful surgery I needed to start stretching and do certain exercises to ensure a positive experience and have a successful surgery and recovery. I then started to get serious and completed a 30 day hot yoga challenge.

What was your life like before you started hot yoga?

I worked out actively, played handball for many years, ran miles at least 4 times per week and lifted weights. While running I began experiencing sharp pains and discovered I had a need for hip replacement surgery. My injury from previous years was a debilitating injury from years spent in the service as a paratrooper airborne ranger. Residual effects over the years while lifting, exercising and running yet getting away from stretching, resulting in a need for my hip replacement surgery.

If you are returning to hot yoga after some time away, what brings you back and how do you feel now that you are back into a healthy routine?

During a goal setting class with Ian, I committed to doing yoga 3 times a week and not drifting. To be honest it has really impacted my life as I continue to grow, change and develop in my yoga practice especially during this pandemic.

What health benefits do you get from hot yoga?

The first thing I experienced is learning to breathe correctly and successfully. As a result of actively and regularly attending, I am more relaxed. It has impacted my thinking (positively) and has assisted me in increasing my physical and mental strength while improving my overall functioning health.

How does hot yoga improve other athletics or physical training for you?

I have improved immensely, strength wise. I am more flexible than I’ve been in years.

What is your favorite thing about the studio?

The studio is immaculate with clean, fresh air. I appreciate the special air filtration system, you wouldn't think it a yoga place. The instructors are awesome, especially Jen, Michelle and Yvonne. The instructors are most helpful, supportive and offer to assist freely. Offering such suggestions as how to modify and get into certain positions and improve your practice, correct your posture and attempt to “find your edge”. Yvonne has offered me a prescription as to how to relax and breathe as she often says “you've got this you've been doing it a long time. Smile”

What advice do you have for beginners?

To follow protocol but start with the music classes. They are awesome and melodious. The variety of music really supports relaxation. That’s my favorite.

Is there anything else you’d like to add?

One day while having conversation about my practice with Ian, he shared with me as I quote “miracles happen in that room”. Now, as a result, I enter the room expecting a miracle.