Bikram yoga offers a challenging routine of 26 postures performed in a room where a temperature of up to 110 degrees is maintained. This is intended to keep the muscles warm enough to stretch into the advanced asanas. You should consult your physician if you are considering practicing Bikram yoga.
Purpose
This style of yoga was created by Bikram Choudhury, founder and owner of the worldwide Yoga College of India. It is similar to hatha yoga in that its aim is to purify and strengthen the physical body and its energies. Bikram uses a combination of breathing and stretching exercises.
The Postures
A typical Bikram yoga session lasts about 90 minutes. There are 26 postures that use all the muscle groups. Each posture is completed twice. Some of the postures are maintained while lying or sitting on the floor. Others are maintained while standing. Bikram strengthens the spine, stretches muscles and improves posture and flexibility.
Releasing Toxins
Each of the Bikram postures massages the body's deep tissues, organ and glands. This helps to release toxins that may have been held in the body for a long time. Bikram stimulates the liver to help it remove toxins form the body. The hot temperature also promotes perspiration, which releases toxins from the skin.
Improving Health
Another benefit of Bikram is that is can help relieve chronic pain by strengthening the joints and muscles. It can also boost the immune system, increase strength, relieve stress and promote an overall feeling of peace and well-being. Because Bikram yoga uses stretching techniques, it helps to disperse the stored fat in your body and may help you lose weight by ridding the body of dangerous visceral fat.
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