Let’s face it, it’s the 21st century and there are countless ways to work out. But how do you know what’s right for you? Some people choose the conventional route of going to the YMCA or to Genesis. Others choose to take their dog out for a run and kill two birds with one stone. I tried the conventional way and even gave Shocker Fitness a chance for about a month this past year. I never really found my niche until this summer.

A friend of mine told me about “sweaty yoga” back in July and invited me to go with her, so I gave it a shot. Since then my life has not been the same. I was struggling to find a way to let loose of some stress while working out, and yoga became a way to achieve that and more.

Siva Yoga, located in the Delano District at 535 W. Douglas Suite 110, is yoga for all types of people: men, women, young, and old. The studio offers yoga in three different flow levels set to great music, all on a heated floor. Dr. Adrian Tartler opened the studio in February 2009.

The great thing about yoga is that it can be something totally different for each person practicing it. Whether you are needing that extra bit to end your workout routine, or you need to de-stress after a long day at work or with family, yoga can do all of that and more.

“Practicing yoga can impact people in huge ways. I’ve seen major changes in people gaining courage to do things they would have never done before. It’s all about coming here and getting connected with your body. You feel good, you have more power, and you don’t have to feel bad about yourself,” Tartler says.

At each yoga practice I attend, I find familiar faces and some new ones as well. This past week I sat next to Robin Cook, age 55, who has been doing yoga for about six months. She decided to get a path about two years ago to build a healthier lifestyle for herself. “Yoga is the perfect compliment to the gym, it’s also great mentally and spiritually,” says Cook.

Many studios offer a flat monthly rate and some, like Siva, offer pay-as-you-go classes. At Siva, the cost for each class is $5 and includes a mat rental for beginners who don’t have one. Check Siva’s website for the class schedule, and make sure to bring a bottle of water and a towel – prepare to de-stress yourself and get sweaty.

(image credit)

Related posts:

1. [move] Running Just as Fast as I Can: Week 7
2. [move] Running Just As Fast As I Can: Week 4
3. [move] Running Just As Fast As I Can: Week 2
4. [move] Till I Collapse: Reality Check
5. [move] A Rally Call for Shocker Football