Things I Learned Doing Sub-Zero Yoga

Ski-ram Yoga is a new workout in sub-zero temperatures.

But don’t worry, you’ll warm up to it.

The class takes place in a temperature-controlled tent.

It’s -2 degrees in there!

Ski gear is essential to keep you warm and stylish.

I was provided with a selection of coats, hats, and gloves. Plus goggles to get me in a ski slope state of mind!

The main purpose of ski-ram is to get you ski slope ready.

Pioneered by Crystal Ski Holidays, ski-ram is intended to limber you up for a day on the slopes over the winter holidays.
Gaby, the instructor, warms up professional athletes.

She’s lovely, helpful, and patient.

Instead of sun salutations, you do snow salutations

This sequence focuses mostly on the legs instead of the core and arms, so no downward dog here!
It won’t be cold for long.

Despite the sub-zero temperature, stretching and doing balance exercises in full-on ski gear will get you sweating in no time.
This pose is called the Pepi Penguin, by the way.
Like with any yoga practice, you have to focus on your breath.

Ski-ram is designed to warm you up for winter sport, but its core principals are the same as all yoga teachings: breathe, breathe, breathe.
You’ve got to find your centre.

Balancing can be hard, especially on skis and boards that may change your centre of gravity and your weight, so ski-ram offers a great warm-up to centre yourself and find your balance before moving on to challenging physical activity.
And you’ve got to push yourself.

Really stretching will limber you up for the slopes and increase your strength. You don’t have to warm up for long, but you do have to warm up with all you’ve got.
It’s OK not to get it right away.

The practise is about getting your body where it needs to be and ready to do what it needs to do on your holiday. I was lucky to have Gaby to rely on when I was struggling with my balance or posture. Her corrections made the difference in being slope ready versus still stiff.
It’s a really peaceful and fun environment.

I bet if I’d gotten to go skiing directly after my session, I would have been pumped and poised for the slopes.
Thank your body and be proud.

Don’t forget to celebrate the success you made and the favour you’ve done your body by warming up and preparing for more rigorous exercise.
Post-warm-up relaxation time is a must.

The incense bag over my eyes smelled like lavender. So good.
P.S.: Your goggles won’t actually hold your hat in place. Just saying.