About Bikram Yoga
Bikram Yoga is a series of beginner yoga postures that become an energetic form of exercise. The Bikram series of 26 postures and two breathing exercises will help you align your body for optimum health.
Yoga is NOT just for the fantastically flexible. In fact, if you are not flexible, if you cannot touch your toes, or perhaps cannot even see your toes, you are a perfect candidate. The benefits of Bikram Beginners Yoga is for everyone; whether you are athletic or cannot touch your toes.
BIKRAM YOGA CLASS
Bikram Yoga Class consist of 26-postures and two breathing exercises performed in a heated a room. It is a "beginning class" only in the sense that there are no advanced postures that might cause injury.
The "beginning postures" are, in actuality, the most physically and mentally demanding, however students at all levels of practice will be able to perform them, to some degree. One does not "do yoga." One "practices yoga." If it is your first time or your hundredth, the benefits are obtained in the correct attempt.
BIKRAM YOGA INSTRUCTORS
Bikram Yoga Instructors emphasize performing each posture correctly, while maintaining the highest degree of safety. The sequence of the postures is critical. Each new pose is preparation for the next. Each action will have its opposite. Every part of the body will be utilized -- from skin to bone, and fingertips to toes.
Each pose is performed in precise order, and to the best of one's ability. Students learn to steadily place new demands upon themselves, working harder yet more calmly, and gaining focus with each succeeding class.
Physical exertion and relaxation are most effective when performed in tandem. Controlled breathing ["pranayama"] and intense concentration maximize the results.
BIKRAM SERIES
The Bikram Series is based upon the principles of Hatha Yoga: "active postures" ["asanas"] provide an intensely concentrated exercising of the body, after which "rest poses" ["savasanas"] allow freshly oxygenated blood to circulate through the muscles, joints, internal organs, and endocrine system.
BIKRAM ROOMS
Bikram Rooms are hot by design. Be prepared to work hard; to make demands upon yourself; and to sweat. Though yoga is best practiced on an empty stomach, hydrate well before each class, and bring bottled water. Sticky-mats and towels are necessary for floor poses. Lycra active-wear is preferable for both women and men.
The following are but a few of the benefits enjoyed by the millions of people around the globe who regularly practice yoga:
- increased flexibility, strength, and vitality;
- improved body image, and self-esteem;
- decreased stress, and alleviation of pain;
- regulated blood pressure;
- improved mobility of the spinal column;
- calmed nervous system, and increasing sense of well-being; enhanced endocrine function, and balanced metabolism.