What to Expect

Infrared heated yoga is an invigorating yet gentle way to enhance your yoga practice. Unlike traditional hot yoga, which uses forced air or steam to heat the room, infrared heat warms your body directly, providing deeper muscle relaxation, improved flexibility, and a detoxifying sweat. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned yogi, here’s everything you need to know before stepping into an infrared yoga class at Yoga Heights.

What to Bring + Wear

Easy peasy…you, a yoga mat, towel, and water. And, if you forget - no sweat, we’ve got you covered with a rental at the studio!

  • Yoga Mat, Yoga or Bath Towel & Water – All are available for rent if you don’t have your own.

  • Light, Breathable Clothing – You’re going to sweat, period. So, wear something comfortable that you can easily move in, we recommend nothing too baggy that will get in the way. Check out some of our studio pictures to get an idea.

  • Change of Clothes – Since there are no showers at our studio, we recommend bringing a fresh set of clothes for after class.

  • No Scents or Perfumes – Please be mindful of others and avoid wearing strong fragrances.

Before Class

  • Street Parking - Park on the street; the studio is at 54th & Vliet, with entry from the back via 54th.

  • Back entrance - Enter from the back of the building via the entrance off 54th Street, not the storefront door on Vliet. Washington Heights is full of hidden gems like ours!

  • Arrive Early – Please arrive 15 minutes before your first class, and at least 10-15 minutes ahead of time for subsequent classes. The outside door locks three minutes before class starts.

  • Stay Hydrated – Drink plenty of water before class to help your body adjust to the infrared heat.

  • Avoid Eating Right Before Class – It’s best not to practice on a full stomach, so avoid eating within two hours of class.

During Class

What to expect during class varies slightly depending on the type of class you attend. For instance, a lot of Classic 26 (Bikram) instructors are very focused on correct alignment in the positions. Their goal is to help you, but if something doesn’t feel right in your body, avoid doing it. Each instructor is different, and we all want you to connect deeper to yourself, so we can reconnect with the world we live in and on.

Vin to Yin is more free flowing. In this practice you feel the energy flowing within you, rather than channeling it to specific part of the bodies (subtle and physical).

Yin and Restore are more relaxing with Restore being more still and zen than Yin. Yin is zen, just a more spicy zen.

After Classic 26

After practicing the Classic 26 series your body will continue to respond to the deep heat and movement. You may experience:

  • Continued sweating as your body cools down

  • A boost of energy as you recover

  • A sense of calmness and relaxation

  • Your muscles may feel more open and relaxed as they release tension

It’s very important to drink plenty of water after class to stay hydrated and support recovery