Bikram or “hot” yoga was developed by a man named Bikram Choudhury. It consists of postures performed in a high heat between 80-105 degrees Fahrenheit. Bikram developed a sequence of 26 postures and two breathing techniques after studying the therapeutic value of hatha yoga in a hands on manner. He worked out that he could condense down the traditional 84 posture practice to these 26 moves which would systematically work the entire body for optimum health.
Why practice the postures in a hot room?
In answer to why the extreme heat is beneficial to practice, Bikram says “Think of the blacksmith. If he wants to hammer a hunk of metal into a beautiful sword, the first thing he has to do is put it in the fireIt’s the same with yoga. Yoga changes the construction of the body from the inside outSo before you change it you have to heat it up to soften it, because a warm body is a flexible body. Then you can reshape the body any way you want.”
Yoga originated in Indiawhere temperatures are naturally very hot. If a person attempts the same postures in a colder climate there is a much greater risk of injury. In a Bikram yoga class the sequence begins with gentler postures and as the body warms moves into deeper stretches.
Some of the key benefits of Bikram yoga include;
-A disciplined mind-
The extreme temperature and challenging postures in a Bikram yoga class are not only beneficial in a physical manner, they are spiritually beneficial. Bikram says “We put incredible pressure on you to teach you to break your attachment to external things and go withinAfter you learn to discipline your body and mind under these conditions, you will truly be able to concentrate; no external will be able to break your powerful force.
-Weight loss-
Bikram yoga is one of the most energetic styles of yoga and a class can result in a participants burning between 600-1200 calories. A dedicated participant can except to create a lean, toned and strong body.
-Increased lung capacity-
The main breath technique used in a Bikram yoga practice is called pranayama and aims to increase the use of a participants lung capacity. Many people only use around 50 percent of their lung capacity, this is a shame because the lungs purify the air we inhale. With the correct breathing technique you can inhale 100 percent purified air.
-Removal of toxins-
The increased heat in a Bikram yoga class means this style of yoga is even more detoxifying then other yoga styles.
-Increased general wellbeing-
Bikram yoga can improve the metabolism, digestion and circulation. It can help sufferers of chronic illness or pain improve their health and can result in an increased immunity.
As a beginner, this style of yoga can be very challenging. However after many months of practice the heat will feel normal. After dedicated practice you can expect an energized mind and body.
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