Feeling Lightheaded After Hot Yoga?

While it is not uncommon, especially for beginners, feeling lightheaded or dizzy after a hot yoga class is not normal in the sense that it is not a desired outcome. It is a clear signal from your body that something is out of balance, and it should be taken seriously. The most common culprits for post-class lightheadedness are dehydration and electrolyte imbalance. Even if you drank water during class, you may have started the practice in a dehydrated state, and you almost certainly lost a significant amount of essential minerals through your sweat. Another possible cause is low blood sugar, especially if you practiced on an empty stomach. If you feel lightheaded, the first thing you should do is sit or lie down immediately. Do not try to 'walk it off.' Slowly sip an electrolyte-rich beverage and, if possible, have a small, salty snack or a piece of fruit. If the feeling is severe, persistent, or if you feel like you might faint, do not hesitate to inform the studio staff and, if necessary, seek medical advice. To prevent this from happening in the future, focus on a rigorous hydration and electrolyte strategy before, during, and after every class.