Blogs

AN EVENING OF WARM YOGA #REVIEW…

Posted by Jack Percival on 09 Mar 2026

Last week, I was kindly invited down to try warm yoga at Bodhi Eden and I can honestly say it was something completely new for me.

Now, for context… I have a pretty physically demanding job. We’re talking early starts, plenty of miles on my feet, and the occasional ultramarathon thrown in just to keep things interesting (because apparently normal suffering isn’t enough). Stretching has become a vital part of my life mainly because my body now complains if I don’t. I’m not getting any younger, and recovery is no longer optional… it’s survival.

Warm yoga, though? That was uncharted territory.

I’ll admit, I walked in not really knowing what to expect. Would I be flexible enough? Would I spend 60 minutes falling over? Would I somehow be the only person sweating within the first five minutes? (Spoiler: it’s warm yoga… everyone’s sweating.)

From the moment I stepped inside, the nerves disappeared. The studio has this instantly calming energy like the outside world just gets left at the door. Charlotte, the instructor, was incredibly welcoming and took the time to guide me through every movement and posture. She explained things clearly, adjusted where needed, and made sure I didn’t accidentally tie myself in a knot. For someone completely new to it, that support made all the difference.

The rest of the class were just as friendly. No egos. No judgement. Just a group of people focused on moving, breathing, and improving themselves. It felt like a really supportive environment the kind where it doesn’t matter if you can touch your toes or not (for the record, mine were a distant acquaintance at best).

Tucked away along Epsom High Street, Bodhi Eden really is a hidden gem. If you didn’t know it was there, you could easily walk past it but once you’re inside, it feels like a little sanctuary away from the rush of everyday life. Calm, warm, welcoming… and surprisingly challenging.

After 60 minutes, I was well and truly relaxed. Physically, I felt looser than I have in a long time. Tight hamstrings from running? Thank you, goodbye. Aching back from long days on my feet? Noticeably eased. The heat really helps your muscles open up safely, which makes stretching deeper feel more natural rather than forced.

But what surprised me most were the mental benefits.

For that hour, my mind actually switched off. No to do lists. No work stress. No thinking about my next project or the next early alarm. Just breathing, moving, and being present. It’s rare we give ourselves that kind of pause. The combination of warmth, controlled breathing, and steady movement left me feeling clearer, lighter, and genuinely calmer.

It’s easy to underestimate how much tension we carry mentally until it’s gone.

I walked out feeling not just physically stretched, but mentally reset. Less stressed. More balanced. Even slept better that night which, if you know me, is saying something.

If you work long hours, train hard, carry stress, or simply need an hour to slow down (without checking your phone every three minutes), I honestly can’t recommend Bodhi Eden enough. Whether you’re a seasoned yogi or someone like me who thought yoga was “just stretching,” you’ll be in safe hands.

Who knew that lying on a mat in a warm room could feel like a full system reboot?

Safe to say… I’ll be back.

Find the Bodhi Eden at:

2nd Floor,
56a High Street,
Epsom,
Surrey,
KT19 8AJ

Visit the website to find out more about classes, events and workshops https://www.bodhieden.com/.

Jack

 

Posted by:

Jack Percival

Hi, I’m Jack. I live in Epsom, a place that means a lot to me because of its strong sense of community and the good people who call it home. I’m a hyperactive people lover at heart, connection drives me, and I’ve always felt called to walk alongside others through their struggles. I’ve spent many years working with the homeless community and supporting people affected by addiction. That work changed me. It opened my heart, deepened my empathy, and showed me the power of simply being there for someone. I’m also a passionate advocate for men’s mental health. I believe we need spaces where men can speak honestly, feel safe, and be seen without shame. In my full-time role, I work in the golf industry but my purpose goes beyond the day job. My real passion lies in people, in stories, and in helping break the silence around struggle. We all need each other more than we think.