Yoga like you’ve never done it before… in a warm cocoon

EXPERIENCE YOGA LIKE YOU’VE NEVER DONE IT BEFORE: IN A WARM COCOON. FEEL YOUR BODY (AND YOUR MIND) OPEN UP INSIDE AN INFLATABLE POD HEATED TO 37 DEGREES.

Max Henderson and Nick Higgins had one goal going into this: to disrupt the yoga industry. After connecting over feelings of intimidation during yoga classes they had attended, the two realised that many other people felt the same way. Enter Hotpod yoga: a safe and unintimidating yoga experience designed to strip away all the elements that stand in the way of you and all the benefits yoga can offer. Since being introduced in 2013, it has become Europe’s largest yoga business, with four Hotpods finding their way to South Africa as well.

Hotpod yoga takes place within a large, inflatable pod that fits a maximum of 20 people. Inside, the small, dark cocoon-like space is dimly lit by purple LED lights. The darkness allows you to lose your inhibitions – so no more comparing yourself to the bodies around you. The pod is warmed up to 37°C: the perfect match to your body’s own temperature. This way, the heat doesn’t feel overwhelming – simply snug. ‘It’s very scientific in the way it’s designed,’ explains Hotpod yoga instructor Yazmine Horowitz. ‘The pod heats up with you.’

You’ll experience gentle atmospheric and binaural beatbased music accompanied by a diffuser dispensing uniquely blended, signature Hotpod scents. The addition of the humidifier helps you work up a good, cleansing sweat once the pod is sealed.

The pod transports you to another world: a safe haven away from everyday worries, to-do lists, and deadlines. There are no mirrors, no loud demands for your body to perform, and no pressure. None of the classes are extreme; they’re designed mainly for beginner-to-intermediate yogis. All classes are Vinyasa-based, so expect to move fluidly, flowing from movement to movement.

‘We promote more intuitive movement based on how your body is feeling,’ says Yazmine.

Hot yoga offers countless benefits, says instructor Rebecca Pretorius. ‘The heat increases flexibility. Because your muscles and tendons are so warmed up, you can experience positions more deeply. The flexibility also protects you from injury. The sweating is just from your body working really hard.’

Yazmine agrees. ‘Your cardiovascular system is working like crazy, your skin and body are cleared of toxins, your heart and lungs work harder, and you’re burning more calories,’ she says.