Bikram yoga is a type of yoga consisting of very specific poses and special studio conditions. Also called "hot" yoga, this style of yoga is one of the fastest growing yoga disciplines in the world, with over 800 Bikram studios worldwide, according to Bikram Yoga Capitol Hill. As with any type of physical exercise, before undertaking Bikram yoga, it is best to check with your health care professional to make sure this activity is safe for you.
Background
Bikram yoga is a kind of yoga consisting of 26 Hatha yoga postures chosen by Bikram Choudhury. According to Bikramyoga.com, these postures were chosen because they help to work every part of the body in order to promote and maintain health. The postures were also chosen specifically for the Western individual and the stress-filled lifestyle that is typically found in Western culture, states Bikram Yoga Tenleytown. The major characteristic that sets Bikram yoga apart from other forms of yoga is that it is practiced in a studio that is 105 degrees Fahrenheit. This is because the body needs to be warmed up in order to be softened and flexible for practice. Also, these poses flush toxins from the body, and sweat encourages these waste products to be excreted, says Bikramyoga.com.
Benefits of Heat
The temperature of the yoga studio can also provide additional benefits aside from helping to warm up the body. The heat helps the body to stretch more deeply into poses because the muscles are relaxed, encourages increased flexibility, helps to boost immune system functioning, increases cardiovascular functioning, burns more calories and helps to build endurance, says Bikram Yoga of Grass Valley/Nevada City.
Benefits of Poses
Each of the poses, or asanas, of Bikram yoga have benefits of their own, but there are also overall health benefits of the asanas. Bikram Yoga Raleigh states that this kind of yoga can help to heal stressed joints and spines, alleviate anxiety and stress, lessen stress-related digestive problems and help to improve posture. Other benefits listed by Bikram Yoga of Green Valley include improvements in circulation, a reduced risk of sports injuries, pain relief, increased energy levels, balance and coordination improvements and toning and lengthening of the muscles.
Considerations
In order to reap the full benefits of Bikram yoga practice, there are several things to keep in mind. You will sweat profusely in class, so hydration prior to, during and after class is important. Burren Yoga suggests adequately hydrating the night before for morning Bikram yoga classes, and stopping approximately 20 minutes prior to the start of class to ensure you are hydrated. After class, drinking at least two glasses of water is suggested; it may be easier to sip water slowly after class, rather than gulping it down. Dress in light, form-fitting clothing to ensure your comfort, and bring a bath towel to place on top of your yoga mat. Prior to starting Bikram yoga, it is advised to consult a health care provider to make sure this type of activity is safe. Individuals with certain medical conditions may benefit more from traditional yoga without the high temperatures.
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