If you walk into a Bikram yoga studio for the first time, as I did not long into '12 as part of my…read morehealthy living-themed New Year's resolutions, the first thing you notice is the smell. At first your brain can't identify it as good or bad, just odd. Then the ephemeral veil of sandalwood incense wears off and you wise up to the fact that you are smelling is toxic human secretions. Ew. But you've heard the hype: it's SO good for you, you'll never sleep so well, it'll give you superpowers, Adonis DNA... etcetera. Skeptical? Just look at the portraits of the what looks like Bollywood strongmen (presumably Bikram's founder/s) straddling tigers on the wall -- they look pretty on top of things... I fill in the form and begin my induction with a zealous Russian lady Svetlana who will be my instructor today. Have I done Bikram before? Well not strictly speaking, but I have done a different "hot yoga" based in Kangaroo Point. Svetlana doesn't seem to give this too much credence. Bikram isn't just a generic 'type' of yoga -- it's a brand, a way of life even for some who swear by it. Cult might be going too far, but their are some of the characteristics i.e. the idolising tiger portraits. * A few housekeeping matters you should be aware of if you're thinking of giving it a try: 1. Wear comfortable, flexible clothing, but avoid excess fabric (which will become completely drenched with sweat). Also bring a towel and mat (if you have one), or otherwise you will have to pay to rent these items. 2. Bring a decently sized bottle of water. It will be your magic elixir that will get you through the ordeal you are undertaking (I forgot to do this and instead paid $3 for a large bottle). 3. Avoid bringing your valuables into the studio because there are no lockers and you can only bring your towel and water into the hot room. 4. When you go into the class for the first time you should line up your mat at the back of the room, so you can look to more experienced Bikram-ers for guidance (plus they'll call you out by name and make sure you are appropriately positioned). Also, sometimes they open the windows at the back of the room which offers some respite from the oppressive yet enervating heat. And then the torture begins. I won't go into all the specifics of the postures, suffice to say they get through most of the strenuous ones at the beginning of the 90-minute session (that's right, 90 minutes) and that the latter half has more of the sitting down, flexibility enhancing ones. But what would be quite relaxing "on dry land" becomes decidedly difficult under the 40+ degree rays of the overhead heat lamps. The first drops of sweat start to drop before the end of the opening breathing exercise and don't let up for the rest of the ordeal. Because it would be easy to lose your drive if not properly motivated, the instructors are equipped with microphone headsets to ensure you get the most out of your practice. Svetlana was indeed a harsh task-mistress, with her amplified banter at times sounding like the commentary for a Russian horse-race. She also came out with some real motivational gems, e.g. this in relation to the benefits of the practice: "You'll be bullet-proof, water-proof, money-proof, sex-proof!" I don't know if that's a good thing or not but the euphoric buzz I experienced after the session was definitely worth it. I even went the next day, but didn't make the hat-trick, ruling out my chances of winning the Month Challenge (if you go everyday for a whole month you get a free month's membership: at over $100/month it might be worth it). Namaste.

Bikram Yoga is torture. Hot, sweaty, nauseating, smelly torture. But there's something about it…read morethat keeps you coming back for more. It's the jelly-like, just-stretched-every-muscle-in-my-body, super relaxed feeling you get after doing it. And the feeling you get the next day when you're standing that little bit taller and feeling that little bit more nimble. Torture doesn't get much better than this and the "Gabba Torture Chamber", as they call it, is a great place to begin your addiction. Owners Maddy and Ben have practiced Bikram all over the world and have settled in Brisbane to run their own studio. Whilst the practice of Bikram is the same world-wide, studios differ from place to place. There are two studios in Brisbane that I've practiced in--this one at East Brisbane and one in Bardon. Between the two, the Gabba studio would have to be my preference. For those who've experienced the hour and a half Bikram session before, you'll know how hot and sweaty that room gets. There's something about the structure of the room at the Gabba that's slightly more forgiving; I think it may be that it has an arched ceiling, whereas the room in Bardon has a low, level ceiling that seems to trap the heat and humidity. Whilst the idea is to be hot, I've found the Bardon room to be a little unbearable. Structural comparisons aside, Maddy and Ben create a lovely sense of community in their studio by making the effort to get to know their regular patrons. Not convinced about the benefits to be had from Bikram? Take out the introductory offer for $20 and go to as many sessions as you like within 7 consecutive days. You may just find yourself signing up for more "torture" at the end of it!

This is the 5th Bikram Studio that I have had the pleasure of sweating in, the first in Brisbane. I…read morelove Bikram yoga. Bikram himself is a questionable fellow, but I respect the practice that he developed. If you enjoy a good stretch with some challenging balancing and uncomfortable poses and you can tolerate the humid 40.6 degrees heat for 90 minutes - I would highly recommend it. I myself appreciate the detoxifying workout and the concept that wherever you go it is always the same (with the exception of a few impromptu comments by the instructor). Be sure to drink plenty of water prior to participating, not just a few minutes before and tons during - this will not help you during the practice. It is also suggested that you don't eat for a few hours before bikram - this includes beer. I made that mistake once- ugh.

I used to go to the Bardon Bikram studio before a new one, closer to my home, opened in…read moreWooloongabba. You'll find the Bardon Bikram studio on the lower level behind an Italian restaurant on Macgregor Tce. If getting there by car, the studio has patron-allocated parking. If planning to take public transport, be warned, this isn't the most well-connected area. Also be warned that you may not look or smell too pretty after Bikram and will either want a shower and change before getting on a bus (showers are provided) or you'll want to collapse into your car and go straight home. It's not the newest of studios, but it's quite nice. There's no seating inside, expect for in the change rooms, but the outdoor area has tables and chairs--plenty of space for relaxing before a session or cooling down afterwards. The clientele at this studio is mixed, but consists mostly of affluent middle-aged women, Bardon being a pretty posh area of town. For this reason, I find the crowd at the Gabba a bit more diverse and interesting. A session goes for 90 minutes and you should be there at least 10 minutes before to find a space on the floor and get settled. Bikram is pricey, but it's pretty good value as you come out feeling exhausted, but amazing. I prefer Bikram at the Gabba, but if Bardon is closer, it'll do for your Bikram hit.

I've been practising at Yoga Den for almost 2 years now. I…read moream now very certain of these things - Dan's prices are amongst the cheapest in Brisbane, he is a dedicated business owner who teaches for many more reasons than to earn a crust, the opening hours and range of class times is unbelievably generous and the quality of Dan's teaching is 5star. Yoga Den has enhanced the quality of my life - how may businesses have you reviewed on Yelp that you can say that about?

As a Bikram devotee, I'd never tried any other forms of yoga until recently going along to a class…read moreat The Yoga Den. If you've never tried Bikram, let's just say it's at the more physically demanding end of the yoga spectrum. My experience at The Yoga Den took me to the other end of that spectrum, to a more relaxing, meditative style of class. The Yoga Den offers a number of different classes and the one I happened to go to was for beginners. If you've never tried yoga before this would be a good place to start, to gain an idea of the basic poses. For someone looking to work up more of a sweat, like myself, the "general" class at The Yoga Den may be a better option. Regardless of your level, it's a pleasant studio with plenty of windows to let the breezes in. Unfortunately, there are no mirrors so it can be hard to know if you're achieving the poses correctly. It's also quite a small studio--classes would fill up with about 15 people. A plus, however, is that mats and other yoga accessories are provided, so just bring yourself, some water and a positive state of mind. Note: classes run 7 days a week. Check website for timetable.

Wonderful yoga studio…read more The instructors here really make this place special, along with the very wide variety of classes offered. My most favourite class is the Practice Lab- I realised this was for me when 5 minutes into 10 minutes of handstand/headstand practice I it occurred to me that a room full of grow ups were kicking it together, listening to good tunes, helping each other, playing and smiling. Can you find better vibes and a better group of fellow yogis? I think not! The class schedule allows for a variety of levels, and the instructors are excellent about helping to make modifications to get you into the right pose for your body, flexible and inflexible bits all taken into consideration! Large practice space with nice clean floors and lots of extra mats, blocks, blankets and straps. Lovely and quiet, such an escape from the nearby bustle. Sure to bring you so much calm. (And, it's a quick dash to Brew- bonus if you want to caffeinate your zen state!) Namaste.

I was put onto Shri by my wife, who has been practising here for a few years, and finally made it…read morein for my first class. LOVED IT! The staff are super nice and accommodating, the studio is lit to perfection and has plenty of space. I have been a few times now and every instructor has brought something unique to the practise. I will be back for more as the Lunchtime Express class suits my work schedule perfectly :)

Cultivate offer 5 classes for $30 for first-timers, which is such a great deal. A friend and I have…read moresigned up and are attending the beginners class on the weekend regularly. The teacher has been great and it is definitely a beginners class - she lets us know how to make it harder or easier, which I definitely appreciate and makes me feel comfortable. There is lots of street parking around (Or at least there is on a Sunday morning, don't quote me on other days) and its a 5 minute walk down to some cafes after if you're looking to undo all your hard work. Also, mat hire is free. Awesome!

I have actually been going to Cultivate Calm for 12 months now. I'm amazed at this because I rarely…read morestick to any form of exercise for that long!! I will continue to come because: I did the beginners course and learnt a lot, I am so happy that I am now more flexible and strong, I always feel welcomed but never feel invaded when I go to class, I'm definitely calmer!, I want to continue practicing yoga without wankiness, I like the variation, the timetable suits. Give this space a go, you'll feel at home before you know it

I am a relative newcomer to hot yoga, starting in my 60s, but everyone at Harlow has been really…read morewelcoming and supportive. No pressure, no posturing. I've been encouraged to develop at my own pace and I'm really enjoying it. Nice space, easy to get to and good value for money

Harlow Hot Pilates and Yoga is in the backstreets of Newstead and I was excited to hear that they…read morewere now offering their Harlow D (aka Deep Stretch Yoga) class on a Sunday afternoon. They offer a range of classes - both yoga and pilates - and all in the infra red heated room. Registering online was easy and they use the MindBody Online system meaning you can also schedule classes from your desktop or the app. Like any experience there is pros and cons. So, the pros: - The infrared heating really is gentle and for me, my preferred hot yoga temp. It's more like a warm and cosy heat than an overwhelming "I'm on fire" temperature. - The Harlow D class is the perfect deep stretch for overworked muscles and just a gentle way to sign off the weekend - As newbies (we went in a group of 4) we were made super welcome to the Harlow gang. And the cons? - They're not in a huge space and if you happen to be heading into a class when one class ends the locker room can get a little crowded. This isn't something that really alters your experience but just more of an FYI. - Compared to other classes I've been to there wasn't as much instruction to help with poses and such from the instructor.

Hmm... Fitness. Bending. Core. Touching my toes. All things that I'm not overly in tune with/good…read moreat. But I am trying, I'm trying hard to make fitness a thing that is an active (get it) part of my life, rather than something I scoff and try to avoid. I went to Barre Body with a colleague of mine when they were in town. She's pretty into her fitness and I agreed to go with her. Colleague solidarity and all.... OK, so I sound super pessimistic, when in fact, it was great. I really enjoyed it. It's a beautiful, calm space. We were two of four taking part in the class so I didn't feel silly for totally not being able to do certain things. The class was hard and involved a variety of resistance, stretching and strength based movements. There were also heaps of options for you to up it or pull it down dependant on your ability, which I think for this kind of fitness. From simple stretches to balancing, to weights to pull ups from the floor (haha - no), I loved the mix of the ballet/pilates/yoga style movements. There were points where I was laughing, mainly because I don't have the ability to do something yet, but I didn't feel like I was putting people off, I felt really supported, especially by the instructor. I will be trying it again (shock horror, I know) and hopefully, I will be in less pain for less time here therein. Seeing I felt damn good afterwards and that out wayed the muscle pain I felt over the following days, I feel I owe it to myself (and the studio) to give it another go.

Barre Body is a welcome addition to Brisbane, bringing their fun and dynamic classes to the…read moresunshine state. I've been to dozens of their classes in Melbourne and a few in Sydney so it was great to see them also offering classes in Brisbane during a recent work trip. As is the case in all of their other studios, the design is lovely with lots of light and nice touches like freshly brewed tea and scented candles. The teachers are friendly and make newbies feel welcome while also challenging those who come regularly. Book classes on line and on their app - it's super easy.

Montague Road is a street defined by it's factory outlets, wholesale warehouses and office spaces…read more It's certainly not the place you'd expect to go to find your inner calm. The Australian School of Meditation and Yoga is situated in a set back space that you could easily by pass if you weren't looking for it. I accompanied my friend to a morning Hatha Yoga class. The venue is a wealth of space, and it's intelligently set out. The yoga instructor coordinates the classes up on a raised stage so everyone can easily see from wherever they are in the room. Each yoga mat is angled towards the stage. The instructor running the class I attended was a no nonsense type of man. No signs of the yoga poet here- "Now, squeeze your knees together, as if you were holding on tight to a cherished love letter". Throughout each asana, he would explain the specific benefits to the body. As I was grinding my pelvis into the floor, pushing my left foot into my buttocks with both of my hands, I was told I was "improving my digestion". He also made jokes during the classes. He had a wholly down to earth approach. He ended the class by pulling out a guitar and playing a sweet little tune and asked us to chant with him. At first, I admit maybe I scoffed a little, but when I finally let out a 'om', I have to say, the vibrations in my chest and throat did feel great. The classes are very affordable- $12 for adults, $8 for concessions. They run classes each day of the week at different times (check website). They also offer meditation classes, vegetarian cooking and spiritual gatherings.

Think meditation is boring? Clearly, you have not tried Kirtan…read more Like your meditation with less silence and more energy? It is probably time to check out Kirtan. Kirtan is a time honored meditation practice that fuses sacred sounds with music and sends you to a transcendental realm far beyond this material world. It is soulful. It is lively, and it is anything but boring. What is more, it happens every week at the Mantra Room in West End of Brisbane. It is Meditation but not as you know it Not used to having music as part of your meditation? Kirtan is a participatory and approachable form of meditation. It uses dynamic and sacred world music that incorporates the voices of the audience right into the meditative experience. As an ancient yogic practice, Kirtan was traditionally accompanied with Indian instruments. However, in the hands and voices of contemporary practitioners, Kirtan has been beautifully transported to all cultural and musical styles without losing its genuine spiritual authenticity. Meditation is Offered as a Gift Since time immemorial meditation has been offered as a gift and at The Mantra Room, we continue with this timeless tradition and offer all our kirtan programs free or by donation as we feel that everyone should have the opportunity to add meditation to their lives and reap the many benefits that meditation has to offer. Meditation for a Calm Mind Through kirtan meditation, our minds can become like a lamp in a windless place that does not waver. Our minds are constantly thinking twenty four hours a day seven days a week. The mind just never gets a rest. This is where kirtan meditation can help. When we focus our minds on these transcendental sounds known as mantras our minds get a much needed rest. When our minds are well-rested, our bodies naturally become relaxed and the good news is that it is so simple everyone can practice it without any difficulty at all, but a calm mind is not the only benefit. There is music, melody and mantra Kirtan offers a way of reawakening the spiritual love that we all hold within our hearts. Everyone is looking for something real, lasting and fully satisfying in their life. That is something about reconnecting to our spiritual source, to experience spiritual love. From this place of peace, love, joy and harmony, Kirtan lets the rest of your life unfold. By weaving together melody, music and mantra, Kirtan is simultaneously a meditative, exhilarating and fun activity and the heart and soul of an evening at The Mantra Room. If you have not heard of Kirtan there is no better way to learn about it than to come along to The Mantra Room and let the experience transport you to a world of inspiration, peace and joy, far beyond the stress and worries of life. Everyone is welcome at the Mantra Room The Mantra Room on a Friday, Wednesday and Sunday night is family friendly as kirtan meditation is so simple even children love to join in. There is no qualification to join us at the Mantra room, absolutely everyone is welcome. So bring your voice and enthusiasm and enjoy the many wonderful benefits that kirtan has to offer. Thank You and Regards,