A Unique Twist! Bikram Yoga

What if I told you that a single form of exercise could relieve stress, rehabilitate sore joints and muscles, detoxify your body, and help you lose weight? Would you try it?

Bikram yoga is a form of yoga created in the early 1970s by Bikram Choudhury. Here it is in a nutshell; 90 minutes, 26 poses, 2 breathing exercises in a room thats 105 degrees and 40% humidity. Theres no talking allowed in the room, except by the instructor.

After completing my first session last week, I immediately fell in love with itleading me to go five times in the first seven days. The feeling of relaxation that you feel when you leave the room lovingly entitled the Torture Room is a feeling that can really vary. Sometimes, I leave feeling tired and sleepy. Other times, I leave feeling energized, like the session woke me up.

There are certain precautions you must take before starting and while practicing Bikram yoga. Here are a few:

Make sure you stay hydrated! Sip water throughout the day before and after your session; this ensures that you get the full benefit from the class.
Do not practice on a full stomach. Allow time for your food to digest, at least two to three hours for a heavier meal.
If you feel dizzy or light headed, simply lay down on your back until the feeling subsides.

The combination of standing and prone (lying-down) postures in this form of yoga allows you to greatly increase in strength, balance, and flexibility. The first 13 poses are done standing, and by the 13th youll definitely be ready to lie down, but the challenge doesnt stop there. The 13 prone and seated poses are great for improving overall balance and flexibility.

The amount of sweat youll produce in a session of Bikram yoga will surprise you; after every class my clothes are completely soaked. Because sweat is the primary way that your body removes toxins, the 90-minute sweat-session greatly improves the overall health of your body.

While all these benefits are great for your health, remember that yoga isnt only for people trying to improve their balance and flexibility. The weight loss benefits of practicing Bikram yoga are substantial. In a single 90-minute class, the average person can expect to burn anywhere from 500 to 1250 calories!

The only downside to Bikram yoga is the cost. The average membership rate runs about $100 per month, give or take a $10 for student and military discounts. However, if you can afford to go, I definitely recommend you find the nearest Bikram yoga studio and try it out!

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