Why I use the name "Original Hot Yoga" and not "Bikram Yoga"

Original Hot Yoga and Bikram Yoga are synonymous in describing the powerful, challenging, therapeutic hot yoga class. And up until 2019, I referred to the practice as "Bikram Yoga."

However, I had been realizing for years that in order for my business to truly represent the compassion, empathy, kindness, and trust that I wanted to see in the world, I needed to change the name.

This might not seem like a big deal. And in all honestly, once I made the decision I was able to move on quickly and confidently. But I did have a lot of angst leading up to it, as well as anxiety about how my community would react.

In this episode, I reference the ESPN 30 for 30 podcast about Bikram Yoga. You can listen here. A word of warning: subjects of sexual harassment and assault are discussed in 30 for 30 show.

As someone who practices, teaches, and recommends this yoga series, I wanted to be transparent about the decisions I've made regarding the name. I hope you enjoy the episode.