Bikram yoga, also known as hot yoga, is a challenging set of 26 yogic postures and two breathing exercises practiced in a room heated to 105 degrees Fahrenheit for 90 minutes. Those who have a regular practice may claim they go through withdrawal symptoms when separated from their yogic regime -- but there is no proven physiological accuracy to this statement. However, the benefits of this kind of yoga are far reaching. And those who practice it may experience an increase in any negative physical side effects they already had without this stress-relieving tool.
Who Can Practice Bikram Yoga
One of the most intense types of Hatha yoga, Bikram is intended to increase strength and balance while cleansing the body. Though Bikram yoga is vigorous, it can be practiced safely by beginners through advanced students for a complete system of wellness, restoration and rejuvenation. Pregnant women should abstain from Bikram yoga due to the intense heat which can effect a developing fetus.
Benefits
The benefits of Bikram Yoga are said to aid those suffering from sleep disorders, diabetes, high blood pressure, depression, arthritis, muscle injuries and anxiety. The heated room is believed to enhance good health, cleanse toxins from the body and reshape your body through strengthening exercises. In addition, infrared lighting used in Bikram studios utilizes the positive effects of the sun's natural rays without the negative effects associated with sun exposure.
Withdrawal
Bikram yoga has positive effects on the mind, body and spirit connection -- including those related to mental well-being. Reducing or abstaining from a regular practice may increase the occurrence of negative symptoms previously kept at bay by the intensity of Bikram yoga. However, to call this sensation withdrawal is medically, physiologically and psychologically inaccurate.
Acclimation
Acclimation is the occurrence of becoming accustomed to an environment or regime. Any environmental regularity becomes something the body and psyche can acclimate to. Some environmental or activational regularities become so habitual that it can be difficult to stop experiencing that stimuli. Athletes who abstain from their regular regime often experience physical aches and mood deflation without their practice, and Bikram yoga enthusiasts are no different. An increase in negative symptoms, such as arthritic pain or anxiety, are not considered withdrawal symptoms even though Bikram yoga may alleviate these issues readily. They are, instead, considered reoccurring problems which are soothed by the regular practice of hot yoga.
References
- "Counseling and Psychotherapy Theories in Context and Practice"; John Sommers-Flannagen; 2009
- "Bikram Yoga"; Bikram Choudhury; 2007
- "Hot Yoga: Energising, Rejuvenating, Healing"; Marilyn Barnett; 2006
- "The American Holistic Medical Association Guide to Holistic Health: Healing Therapies for Optimal Wellness"; Larry Trivieri Jr.; 2001
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