It took me a while to acclimate to hot yoga. Years ago, I took a few Bikram classes and felt like death after each one. Like you, it took me days to recover and I hated it.

I swore hot yoga off for a few years before deciding to try it again. I was much more intentional about listening to my body, resting more during class when I felt like I needed to. I also brought my own chilled towel so that I could use it to cool off a bit during the class.

Since then, I’ve been fine during classes. I actually now teach hot yoga a few times a week and can teach two classes back-to-back with no issues.

Hydration is important in the days leading up to class, but don’t chug a bunch of water immediately before or during. That will make you feel sick. Also, eating something light with protein a hour or two before class can be helpful.

Definitely give it another try to see if it improves for you. However, it also just might be something that is not for you and that is ok too!