Peter Schieffelin Nyberg
Peter Schieffelin Nyberg is a creative executive with extensive background in the health care, digital marketing and financial services industries. He brings entrepreneurial energy and skills to new and established organizations. Peter improves operations and solves complex problems in large and small organizations. As an Organizational and Operational Consultant, Peter is a change agent who can lead teams in transforming organizational structures and cultures. Peter Schieffelin Nyberg is an active listener and a persuasive communicator who inspires people to think creatively and work together.
What is your favorite hobby?
Hot Yoga is my favorite hobby.
How did you get started with it?
I was first introduced to hot yoga in 2012 by a massage therapist. She recommended it as a complementary therapy to the work she was doing with my body. She suggested the poses would improve my flexibility and my core strength. She also thought the focus and concentration would help me with trying to be more present and mindful.
Tell us what you love about it.
From the first class, I was hooked. The poses were new and challenging and I loved the heat. Most hot yoga studios have a temperature around 100 degrees. You definitely get a great sweat. By the end of that first class, I knew this would be part of my future. For the past many years, I try to attend a few classes every week. My flexibility and core strength have improved considerably. I feel stronger than when I was much younger.
What types of things/equipment have you spent money on for your hobby?
Hot yoga is relatively affordable. All you really need to practice is a quality yoga mat and some comfortable clothing. Most participants practice barefoot. The largest expense is the class fee. Most studios have packages (10 or 20 classes) or monthly or annual membership fees that provide for an unlimited number of classes.
What are some of your favorite places to shop for your hobby?
Most studios sell merchandise in their lobby. Many online retailers offer quality products. My favorite is Jade Yoga (https://www.jadeyoga.com/).
How much money have you invested into it and how much should a beginner invest to get started?
Getting started is relatively inexpensive as far as equipment and clothing. A good yoga mat can be purchased for $25 and you can use gym shorts already in your wardrobe. The major expense is the class fee. A typical studio will charge $12 to $20 for a single class. If you purchase a monthly membership, plan to spend $100 – $150 per month. If you purchase an annual membership, it will cost $900 – $1,500.
Are there any good books for beginners interested in your hobby?
Hot yoga is often referred to as Bikram Yoga. There is a great book called Bikram Yoga, by Bikram Choudhury. He is often referred to as the Guru behind hot yoga. Another really good book is Hot Yoga, by Marilyn Barnett.
Are there any videos you can recommend for beginners?
I have not watched any videos but there are plenty online for free on YouTube. Because of the heated studio, it is practically impossible to practice hot yoga on your own at home. So, while there are many “virtual” yoga classes offered online, they are not actually hot yoga classes since it is not practical to simulate the heated environment at home.
How has your hobby changed your life?
When I am regularly practicing, my whole countenance is different. I have more energy. I sleep better. I feel better. This is especially true when I am conscious about hydrating and feeding my body with healthier food.
What advice do you have for others just starting out?
Take it slow. One class at a time. If you are new to yoga and hot yoga, the poses can be quite challenging. Beginners need to be patient and to only do what is comfortable for them. Over many classes, your body will become more flexible and you will be able to do more of the poses. It is a progressive pursuit. It is also a journey rather than a destination. The heat is also very helpful to your muscles. The heat warms up your body and your muscles and enables you to stretch beyond what you may have thought was possible. Also, it is very important to make sure you are hydrating before and after taking a class. With the extreme heat, your body will sweat profusely and you need to make sure you do not become dehydrated. But during the actual class, you do not need to drink a lot of water. And actually the instructors often remind you to just take small sips during the class.
Are you involved in Social Media?
If you are please provide the links below: Just LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/peter-schieffelin-nyberg-1101611/