Bikram Yoga; what is it?
Bikram Yoga has been around since 1970 and is a variation on traditional Hatha yoga. This type of yoga is named after its creator, Bikram Choudhury. It's a specific style of yoga, also called hot yoga, because it's taught in rooms where the temperature reaches up to 40 degrees Celsius. The heat and high humidity (40%) make your body flexible, preventing injuries. In addition, the high temperature causes your body to sweat to cleanse and remove toxins. Therefore, it's important to drink plenty of water (2 liters) throughout the day. It's recommended not to drink water during class, as it can make you nauseous and distracts you from performing the yoga poses. Because you sweat a lot, too much clothing is often uncomfortable. Therefore, wearing breathable clothing is recommended. For hygiene reasons, a towel or non-slip mat is definitely a must!
Why Bikram Yoga?
You'll find a balance between strength, flexibility, balance, and endurance. Mentally, you'll work on self-confidence, self-control, determination, concentration, and patience. Because you'll be performing the same exercises repeatedly in a warm room, your breathing control will gradually improve over time. This allows you to work harder and more deeply in a relaxed way.
What's so different?
Bikram Yoga classes last 90 minutes and consist of two breathing exercises and 26 yoga poses, also called asanas. The breathing exercises are based on the Kapalabhati technique, also known as breath of fire or diaphragmatic breathing. This technique places a clear emphasis on the exhalation. The combination of breathing exercises and various yoga poses loosens your joints and massages your organs. Because you practice the same exercises repeatedly, you set new goals for self-improvement. This means you never stop learning!For whom?
It's for everyone! You don't have to be flexible; you'll learn to be! If you have a heart condition, it's wise to discuss with your doctor whether this is a suitable sport for you.Why should I try Bikram Yoga?
The benefits at a glance:- Strengthens all muscle groups, reducing the risk of injuries
- Ensures that waste products are removed from the body through sweating, thus cleansing your skin
- Increase strength and flexibility
- Improves your endurance and balance
- Improves and stimulates your blood circulation
- Improves and increases your breathing capacity
- Improves your concentration
- Promotes weight loss: Doing asana exercises in a warm room promotes a fast metabolism and burns calories
- Increases your energy levels: the longer and more often you do it, the stronger and fitter you become
What products do I need for Bikram Yoga?
A non-slip towel that you can place over your mat
A mat with a good anti-slip
A mat especially for bikram yoga and other forms of hot yoga