You may have noticed your Bikram Yoga practice is a little extra sweaty during the summer months. While the outside temperature has increased, it may seem like that translates into higher temps in the studio, but it’s the higher humidity, not the heat that you are feeling.

A regularly practice is essential during the summer to help you better acclimate to the outside temperatures and to keep your practice consistent throughout the year to reap maximum health benefits. Here are some tips on how to best tolerate the increased humidity both inside and outside of the studio.

Listen to Your Body

Sweat is your body’s natural air conditioning. With the increased humidity in the air though, sweat doesn’t evaporate from the skin as readily and internal body temperatures may rise. This may also cause an increased heart rate. As with any session, it’s important to listen to your body. Remember, every day and every body is different. Honor what yours is feeling and don’t push it beyond reasonable limits.

Stay Extra Hydrated

Staying hydrated assists your natural internal ac unit by allowing you to sweat to cool down. Keeping hydration levels consistent the days before and after practice is key. Remember, you can also hydrate with the foods you eat and with other non-alcoholic and caffeine-free beverages along with plain water.

Also remember to replace lost electrolytes. You can avoid sugary sports drinks with natural electrolyte-rich sources such as coconut water, watermelon, bananas, and vegetables.

Wear the Right Clothing

You don’t have to go out and overspend on expensive yoga clothing. But it is important to wear moisture-wicking materials. Avoid cotton clothing because they absorb sweat, become heavy, and get in the way while in some postures. You want to wear clothing that moves with you and does not require adjusting in order to stay in a meditative state during practice.