One of the more controversial forms of yoga, Bikram Yoga, is well-known for its intense but life-affirming practice – and its ability to inspire both ardent devotees and vehement dissenters. Born of a 90-minute practice of 26 postures and two breathing exercises performed in a room heated to around 105 degrees Fahrenheit, this form of yoga seeks to create strength, flexibility, and mental toughness. This article will explore the fundamentals of Bikram Yoga, to provide insight into what makes it such a unique and special yoga for many people.
Table of Contents:
– What is Bikram Yoga?
– The physical benefits of practicing Bikram Yoga
– Mental and emotional advantages of Bikram Yoga
– Preparing for your first Bikram Yoga class
– Common misconceptions about Bikram Yoga
What is Bikram Yoga?
Bikram Yoga was developed in the 1970s by somebody called Bikram Choudhury, and it is a ‘hot yoga’. It is part of a very specific tradition of doing yoga in a particular order. Bikram Yoga has a very specific set of postures and breathing exercises, which you would be intruding upon if you attempted to leave one of those postures. It is understood that this particular sequence of postures, in this particular order, has been developed in order to stretch every part of the body, to ensure that all organs, veins, ligaments and muscles are working properly. The purpose of the heat is to warm you up so that it is safe to go deeper into the stretch. If you get hot, you have the capacity to stretch more deeply, without the risk of rupturing soft tissue.
The physical benefits of practicing Bikram Yoga
Bikram Yoga provides a number of physical benefits. Urine contains toxins that have passed through the blood, so the constant heating helps with sweating. The postures themselves are designed to become more flexible and balanced, and to build strength. Many practitioners who have taken the class regularly report that they both have better posture and less back pain, because of the strengthening of the main core muscles. The cardiovascular aspect helps with heart health, providing a moderate aerobic workout.
Mental and emotional advantages of Bikram Yoga
Aside from the physical benefits, the discipline involved in maintaining those positions in a muscle-melting heat helps to build mental clarity and concentration – not to mention the emphasis on controlling the breath, which can help with anxiety and stress. Many regulars report that the practice leads to improved sleep and improved mental and emotional wellbeing.
Preparing for your first Bikram Yoga class
For anyone preparing to take their first Bikram Yoga class, there’s some advice to follow. Make sure you drink plenty of water throughout the day before class, as your body can dehydrate from the heat and sweating. Wear light, loose clothing made out of breathable materials. Bring a large water bottle, a towel, and a yoga mat. Try not to have any preconceptions about the class, and be open to the experience. It can take a few sessions before you start to get used to the heat in the room and the strain of the postures.
Common misconceptions about Bikram Yoga
First, the myth that Bikram is only for the strong and fit. Actually, it is for the beginning, middle and elderly practitioner. The next myth is, ‘Well it’s all about exercise.’ And you say: ‘Really?’ But, it is. The physical is important as are the mental, emotional and spiritual aspects. The final myth is, ‘Look at me sweating, that must be bad for me.’ But those comfortable in the heat are missing out. Assuming you are drinking properly, listening to your body and giving yourself permission to stop, there is little risk.
Conclusion:
The intense physical, mental and emotional benefits of Bikram make it a compelling practice for those seeking a radical and healthy way of life. When we understand what Bikram entails and plan ahead for class, many myths are debunked as to the fundamentals of this practice, and inequitable preconceptions can be shed surrounding issues of class, body size, age and gender. Whether you are a seasoned yogi or novice, Bikram Yoga is a practice that can open up new avenues to explore the depth of your potential as a physical being, as well as who you are in your mind and spirit.
