This is the second in our Practice in Focus series, where we share the stories and the images we capture with the teachers and studios who bring yoga to life.
It’s all about hot yoga—the heat, the moisture, the effort and reward of moving through intensity together. Our Practice Makes Sweat story explores why so many are drawn to hot yoga: what makes it so transformative, and how the right tools—like a performance towel—can enhance every breath, hold, and release.
To bring that story to life, our team gathered at a local studio near our Amsterdam office to capture the experience firsthand.
The Class: Practice Makes Sweat
Led by Joelle, the class moved through a dynamic, heat-building sequence that balanced strength and stillness. Teachers Daniel, Esther, Sheng, Sherine, and Thai practiced alongside her, creating a shared rhythm filled with focus, laughter, and quiet intensity.
What unfolded was more than a photoshoot—it was a reminder of what practice makes possible: connection to breath, to body, and to one another.
The Studio: Balanzs, Amsterdam
The shoot took place at Balanzs Studio in Prinseneiland, Amsterdam, a longtime Manduka partner known for its welcoming energy and beautiful canal-side views. With eight locations across The Netherlands, Balanzs continues to be a home for mindful movement and community.
→ Learn more about Balanzs and their team in the Studio Spotlight or directly at balanzs.nl.
The Practice: Supported by Hot Yoga Towels
Both yogitoes® and eQua® towels were featured throughout the class—each designed to support movement in high-heat, high-moisture conditions. They enhance grip, absorb sweat, and bring comfort when the intensity rises.
→ Learn more about yoga towels.
The PRO and PROlite mats provided the foundation for the practice, with a closed-cell surface that resists moisture and bacteria. Models were styled in Manduka apparel, including Dhara bras, tanks, shorts, and leggings. Daniel wore the Vinyasa Tee with CNTR Shorts, and Sheng paired his with the Tenzin Short.
The Production Team
Video production was led by Johannes Olszewski of One Inch Dreams with photography by Dominik Wagner, dominikwagner.net.
Our gratitude goes to the teachers, studio team, and creative partners who brought this story to life—and to the community that keeps showing up, breath by breath.
