Adopting a hot yoga practice doesn’t have to mean spending tons of money on a studio membership or adjusting your busy schedule to fit in a class. You can enjoy cost-effective yoga whenever you choose by transforming a bathroom or spare room into your personal hot yoga sanctuary. Imagine a space where you can flow to your favorite songs, practice freely, or immerse yourself in long-held stretches.
“Yoga, for me, is the art of finding and creating space for myself—on or off of the mat,” shares Emily Taylor, yoga teacher and studio manager at Otium Studios. If you want to embrace hot yoga but either lack a nearby studio or don’t have the extra cash for a membership, here’s how to create a nurturing environment right at home.
But First, the Benefits of Hot Yoga
Lower blood pressure, increased flexibility, and improved bone density are just a few reasons why hot yoga continues to gain popularity. However, the benefits of a heated flow extend beyond the physical. “Hot yoga seems to give my body a release of energy that isn’t possible from yoga without sweat. They both bring release, but the heat intensifies the experience,” Taylor explains.
What You’ll Need to Turn Your Bathroom Into a Hot Yoga Room
- Dr. Red Space Heater with Humidifier, $134
- 74″ Jade Yoga Harmony Yoga Mat, $98
- Jade Yoga Double-Sided Microfiber Mat Towel, $27
- Ecos Plant Powered All-Purpose Cleaner, $6
- JBL Go 4 Portable Bluetooth Speaker, $50
- Airome Essential Oil Nebulizer, $36
How to Turn Your Bathroom Into a Hot Yoga Room
For many, the bathroom is a personal haven. It’s where we lock the door to indulge in moments of solitude—cleansing the day away or rejuvenating ourselves for what lies ahead.
Below, Taylor and McKensie Kirchner, yoga instructor and owner of Bride Vibe Yoga, offer their insights on how to elevate your bathroom into a functional hot yoga studio in just five straightforward steps:
1. Clean and Clear Your Space
Start by cleaning and decluttering your bathroom. “You don’t want to be distracted by a mental checklist of cleaning tasks while you’re trying to focus on your practice,” advises Kirchner. Opting for eco-friendly cleaners with soothing essential oils will enhance—not distract—from your yoga experience.
2. Find the Perfect Space Heater
No need to splurge; a simple, portable infrared space heater will suffice. Turn it on, place a towel under the door, and close it to allow the room to heat up before you start. This way, your body can acclimate to the warmth right upon entry.
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Pro tip from Kirchner: “Keep the heater at a safe distance to avoid accidental burns from direct heat.”
3. Set the Mood
If you plan on practicing regularly at home, consider incorporating a few special touches. “Minimalism works best—simple additions like plants, a favorite piece of art, or a tidy countertop can make a difference,” recommends Taylor.
For a cozy ambiance, Kirchner suggests using an essential oil diffuser for inviting scents and moisture. Lighting is also essential; reduce brightness by utilizing just the mirror lights and draping a colorful scarf over them.
If you enjoy music while practicing, curate a playlist that resonates with you. Yoga teacher Allison Falkenberry previously mentioned that music combined with a heated session can create a powerful sense of connection, even in solitude. Plus, you can choose the soundtrack yourself!
4. Hit the Right Humidity Level
A dry room can inhibit the full benefits of your hot yoga session. Many studios maintain about 40% humidity. A humidifier can be a smart investment alongside your heating device. Alternatively, running the shower briefly at the beginning can add some much-needed steam. Experimenting to find your ideal humidity level is part of the at-home experience.
5. Choose an Online Class
To structure your home practice, consider subscribing to an online class platform like Alo Moves, or check if your local studio offers streaming options. Additionally, Well+Good provides a comprehensive library of classes ranging from quick sessions to longer routines.
For a more freestyle approach, don’t hesitate to explore your movements. Without the social pressures of class, unstructured intuitive movement can unlock new creative possibilities in your practice.
Is Yoga at Home Right for You?
Yoga should be accessible to everyone. Bringing the studio experience to your home can eliminate common barriers to practice. Even if you discover that hot yoga at home isn’t your preference, you can still incorporate various yogic moments gently throughout your day.
“Yoga, for me, is about giving oneself the time to pause and notice breath and thoughts,” explains Taylor. “It can manifest in simple moments, whether you’re doing the dishes or getting ready for a shower. When actions are infused with intention, they become sacred. And that’s yoga.”
