1. A Hot Topic
Bikram Yoga was developed by Bikram Choudhury who was born in India and studied yoga from an early age. His method of yoga teaches 26 poses and 22 breathing exercises in a specific order. This highly-structured approach is different from traditional yoga methods. Bikram Yoga is done in a room temperature of 105 degrees F and 40 percent humidity. It emphasizes physical fitness more than spiritual growth, although it is also intended to promote emotional well-being.
2. Squeeze and Release
The sequence of poses in Bikram Yoga promote healthy muscles and internal organs by using the tourniquet effect. This means that a pose squeezes a part of the body causing the blood to leave it, and when the pose is released blood rushes back into that same part. The flushing of blood into and out of the body's tissues removes waste products and brings in oxygen and nutrients.
3. If You Can't Stand the Heat
The hot room environment essential to Bikram Yoga is intended to have several effects. It enables the muscles to stretch further and the joints to flex more deeply, without injury, than they could in cooler temperatures. This allows Bikram Yoga students to go deeper into the poses. Sweating is seen as a way to clear toxins from the body. Practicing in the heat also increases the student's endurance and works the cardiovascular system. However, 105 degrees F in the yoga classroom may be too hot for some individuals to handle.
4. Every Pose Has a Place
The specific sequence of 26 poses is essential to the Bikram method. It begins with standing poses followed by back bends, forward bends and ending with twists. There are no inversions, or upside-down poses, in Bikram Yoga. The sequence of postures is intended to strengthen all the muscle groups and support the health of all the organ systems.
5. Instructors With Unique Training
Bikram Yoga is a highly-specialized method and teachers offering it need to be certified Bikram instructors. Bikram instructors and studios are located all over the country. When looking for classes ask prospective teachers about their own training and methodology. It is important to talk to the teacher about whether or not Bikram Yoga, with its strenuous approach and hot room, is a good choice for you. Tell the teacher about any medical conditions you have, any medications you are taking and your experience with yoga and fitness programs.
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