Bikram yoga is a series of hatha postures and breathing exercises practiced in a room heated to 105 degrees with infrared lights. Bikram yoga is used holistically to promote detoxification of the body through heavy sweating and raised metabolism induced by the intense yogic practice and high temperatures. Consult your doctor before beginning a Bikram yoga class.
Far Infrared Lighting
According to "The Clinician's Handbook of Natural Medicine," far infrared lighting utilizes full-spectrum light and heat to penetrate the body. Additionally, it says far infrared lights have been shown to offer the benefits of the full solar light spectrum without the negative side effects caused by natural sun exposure. Alternative care providers and advocates of Bikram yoga say this broad-spectrum light may be used to increase oxygen levels. For pancreatic function, holistic practitioners say the far infrared spectrum has implications for reducing stress-related disorders, and may offer cleansing, toning properties beneficial to physical and emotional well-being.
Pancreatic Function
The pancreas is a small organ located behind the stomach. This organ is responsible for the secretion of digestive enzymes responsible for breaking down fats, carbohydrates, acids and proteins in the exocrine system. It is also responsible for secreting glucagon and insulin, which are hormones responsible for regulating the level of glucose in the bloodstream. When the pancreas is overstressed through excessive consumption of carbohydrates, through stressful lifestyle choices, or susceptible genetics, it may experience the backlash of diseases such as pancreatic cancer and diabetes.
Bikram Yoga Applications
According to Larry Trivieri Jr., author of "The American Holistic Medical Association Guide to Holistic Health," Bikram yoga has been shown to reduce stress and improve awareness of healthy lifestyle choices for regular practitioners. Due to the importance of a smoothly functioning pancreas for healthy functioning, Bikram yoga may be beneficial to those with hypoglycemia or with a family history of cancer or diabetes, but should not be used as a substitute for traditional medical care for these illnesses. Ask your physician if Bikram yoga would be an appropriate form of complementary therapy for your established primary medical care.
Considerations
Due to the intense heat experienced in Bikram yoga studios, it is vitally important to be well hydrated before each class. Proper nourishment and hydration before and after any heated yoga practice is essential to prevent weakness and dehydration that may occur under high temperatures. According to the creator of Bikram yoga, Bikram Choudhury, it is important to listen to your instructor fully to ensure proper movement and postures during each series to experience optimal results. Bikram yoga is designed to meet the needs of beginning and experienced yoga practice and may be modified to meet the specific needs of each person as outlined by your physician. If your yoga teacher seems reluctant to offer modifications when needed, seek out a more qualified practitioner who understands and appreciates your unique needs.
Precautions
Bikram yoga, however beneficial, is not a substitute for proper medical care of the pancreas. While Bikram yoga may be a healthful support of a healthy or weak pancreas, it is not intended to replace the expertise of an oncologist or diabetes specialist. If your pancreas are in need of medical attention, ask your physician if Bikram yoga is a suitable complementary therapy for your specific condition before proceeding.
References
- "The American Holistic Medical Association Guide to Holistic Health: Healing Therapies for Optimal Wellness"; Larry Trivieri Jr.; 2001
- "The American Physical Therapy Association Book of Body Maintenance and Repair"; Steve Vickery and Marilyn Moffat; 2004
- "Hot Yoga: Energizing, Rejuvenating, Healing"; Marilyn Barnett; 2006
- "Bikram Yoga"; Bikram Choudhury; 2007
- "The Clinician's Handbook of Natural Medicine, 2nd Edition"; J. Pizzorno, ND, M. Murray, ND, H. Joiner-Bey, ND; 2008
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