Hot Yoga is a form of Yoga where the 'asanas' or yogic postures are practiced in a room or hall whose temperature has been raised to 105 degree Fahrenheit. This is not a natural environment to do Yoga and one must be careful not to hurt himself or herself.

Hot Yoga goes against the basic grain of yogic exercises that require the mind and body to be in a state of peace and relaxation. In fact, all forms of Yoga require that the disciples exercise restraint. They should do only that much with which they are comfortable.

When Yoga is done at 105 degrees Fahrenheit or above the heart rate, respiration rate and blood pressure increases. The heat softens the muscles, and makes it possible to stretch more than normal. However, when doing so a person may also hurt himself.

The ancient Indian science does not recognise Hot Yoga. Even medical experts are concerned about the environment in which Hot Yoga is practiced. While a heated environment may catalyse certain body processes it slows down other processes. This makes it difficult for the body to respond in a natural or normal manner

But this does not mean that Hot Yoga does not have any advantages. A major advantage is that a person performing the 'asanas' sweats profusely. This expels all toxins present in the body by way of sweat, and the person feels cleaner and healthier.

However, one should be careful when performing Hot Yoga. One should carry a pair of large towels to wipe the sweat from time to time, and wear appropriate clothes like shorts so that the skin has space to breathe. One should never wear tight clothes or thick clothes. These absorb sweat and add to general discomfort.

Another important thing is to drink water, and lots of it. This prevents dehydration, and problems arising from a sudden loss of fluid. A good practice is to carry a water bottle in the Yoga room, and to drink water whenever the throat feels dry. One should also avoid eating heavy food before the start of a session.

These are important precautions and must be followed by all disciples of Hot Yoga who want to slim down naturally.