Yoga offers a workout that is much different than a typical strength training or aerobic workout. While employing flexibility, muscular strength, muscular endurance and cardiovascular endurance, yoga relaxes the mind and body. Bikram yoga takes that concept a step further by adding heat and a specific sequence of poses to the routine.
What is Bikram Yoga?
Bikram yoga was developed from Hatha yoga, using the same principle of heat as Hatha. The yoga room is heated to 105 degrees Fahrenheit to soften the body into greater flexibility. A sequence of 26 poses are executed, irrigating the circulatory system and flushing impurities out of the body. Bikram yoga is only taught in approved studios that must adhere to strict guidelines, including carpeted floors, 40-percent humidity, and classes that are 90 minutes in length that are taught by certified Bikram instructors with no physical, hands-on corrections.
Benefits
Bikram yoga offers numerous benefits. From the specific poses used in this exercise, you will experience increased flexibility, strength and toning of your muscles, strengthening of your spine, a decrease in pain, reduction in body weight, increased balance, coordination, focus, discipline and energy, and a clearing and calming of the mind and soul that will lessen the effects of stress. The heat of the studio burns calories, improves cardiovascular endurance and immune-system efficiency, and rids your body of toxins.
Bikram Yoga Versus Sleep
At the time of publication, no scientific studies have been conducted comparing the benefits of Bikram yoga to sleep. Testimonials from Bikram-yoga enthusiasts, though, claim this form of exercise to be more energizing than relaxing on a beach or sleeping. Though a full night of sleep -- eight to 10 hours -- is vital to proper functioning, also performing Bikram yoga may help energize you through the difficult parts of the day.
Considerations
As with any new exercise, consult your physician before performing Bikram yoga if you have any health conditions. The heat of the studio increases your body heat to a level that may be unsafe for a baby, so do not perform this exercise if you are pregnant. Although it may improve spinal conditions, certain poses may not be suitable for them. Always inform your certified instructor of any problems you may have so she can modify poses for you.
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