Annie & Charlotte Doing Happy Baby 

I joined The Hot Room in 2014 with the intention of switching up my workout routine and the monotony of cardio and weights at the gym. I was someone who always thought yoga was just stretching but the heated element had me interested. My first class was a 90-minute Orginal Hot Yoga with Ash and I was surprised to feel a blended combination of challenge and relief as I worked my way through the postures. I left the class feeling more energized and connected as if I’d really worked my body from the inside out. Balancing life as a full-time student and working full-time in the service industry, it took me 3 tries to complete a 30-day challenge. I genuinely believe it’s the repetition of continuously showing up that helped me establish a foundation for my practice and absorb all the benefits to come.

Annie celebrating her first 30-day challenge. 

Fast forward 6 years later and I was in some of the best physical shapes of my life. Then the pandemic hit. This is when I really started to notice the mental benefits I gained from my time at The Hot Room. All of the positive talk and mantras I’d hear from the instructors in the room would pop into my head. “I can do hard things” and “do the best you can with the body you have today.”

In challenging times, I would say these phrases to myself without even thinking about it. 2020 was a lot of things but without a doubt, it was a huge year of personal and professional growth for me and I attribute that to the mental strength I’ve gained from my practice.

The end of 2020 came with a surprise when my husband and I found out we were expecting our first child! Being diagnosed with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, I worried about a complicated pregnancy and the impact that could have on me and my baby.

Annie doing camel during her third trimester

Out of all the seasons in life, I can’t begin to tell you how important this yoga was for me through pregnancy. From the basics like staying hydrated, reducing stress, and controlling weight gain to connecting with my baby and continuing to feel my best. Through the support of Hye Jin, all of the instructors, the front desk, and the community, I genuinely felt cared for.

We welcomed our healthy baby girl in September and after 3 hours of pushing during the delivery, I’ve never been more thankful for a strong core and pelvic floor! Returning to my practice during this postpartum journey has been so important for my mental and physical health and I can honestly say I’m enjoying the differences each day brings.

Annie doing camel postpartum

If you’re interested in hearing more about the benefits I’ve experienced during my time at The Hot Room, I’d love to chat. If you’re interested in going to a class to experience those benefits for yourself, I’d love to practice next to you too!

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