A Bikram yoga, sometimes called "hot yoga," session consists of 26 poses performed in a room heated to around 105 degrees Fahrenheit with a humidity level of at least 60 percent. The overall aim of the practice is to unify the body and mind while promoting relaxation and healing.
Standing Poses
Eleven of the 26 bikram yoga poses are standing poses. Simpler standing poses include the Standing Deep Breathing pose, Half Moon pose and the Standing Separate Leg Stretching pose. The remaining poses, the Awkward pose, Eagle pose, Standing Head To Knee pose, Standing Bow Pulling pose, Balancing Stick Pose, Triangle pose, Standing Separate Leg Head to Knee pose and Tree pose, are more difficult and requiring a great deal of balance and flexibility.
Kneeling or Seated Poses
Nine of the bikram yoga poses involve sitting or kneeling. Of these, the Toe Stand pose is the most difficult. The Hands to Feet pose, Fixed Firm pose, Half Tortoise pose, Camel pose, Rabbit pose, Head to Knee pose, Spine-Twisting pose and Blowing in Firm pose make up the other nine seated or kneeling poses.
Lying Poses
The remaining six poses, the Dead Body Pose, Wind-Removing Pose, Cobra Pose, Locust Pose, Full Locust Pose and Bow Pose, all involve either lying on the back or stomach.
Order and Frequency
Each of the Bikram yoga postures are sequenced to optimize the impact of the exercise on the body by stretching the muscles and tendons in a specific order. One class typically lasts 90 minutes. The Bikram's Yoga College of India recommends completing a Bikram session daily, even if you can't perform the more difficult poses properly. You should always consult with your doctor before beginning a new exercise program.
Member Comments