Bikram yoga is a series of 26 Hatha yoga postures and two breathing exercises designed for beginners as well as advanced students. Each posture is done twice during a 90-minute class which is led with verbal instruction by a certified instructor. The room is intentionally warm (105+ degrees) to help your muscles stretch more safely and easily, and to promote increased perspiration (one of your body's natural functions to eliminate toxins). [TIPS FOR A GREAT CLASS]
The postures work synergistically and cumulatively to return the body to a balanced state, building strength, energy, stamina and flexibility. Using a "tourniquet effect," which is achieved as a posture is held in stillness with maximum effort (a primary principal of Hatha yoga), the blood supply to a specific area of the body is briefly restricted. When the posture is released, the effect is of a dam bursting! High speed oxygen and nutrient rich blood courses back through, flushing the circulatory, cardiovascular and lymphatic systems, facilitating the removal of waste products. This also stimulates the nervous and endocrine systems, regulating the release of hormones and enzymes. By stretching, squeezing and massaging all of the internal glands and organs in this manner, maximum function is restored. When the tissues of the body receive proper blood flow, every cell is nourished. On a mental level, a deeper sense of concentration and patience is developed, thereby greatly reducing stress.
People from all walks of life and levels of fitness are benefiting from Bikram Yoga. Those suffering from diabetes, asthma, arthritis, digestive problems, and other debilitating illnesses have been given a new lease on life.
Bikram says: "Never too late, never too old, never too bad and never too sick to do yoga and start from scratch again."
READ "BIKRAM'S BEGINNING YOGA CLASS"The definitive introduction and reference to Bikram Yoga, with commentary by Bikram Choudhury. Great information about what Bikram Yoga can do for you, and why it works. The book contains nearly 200 photographs illustrating each of the poses. Each asana is also accompanied by detailed directions on how to do it the right way, with common problems with each pose. Entertaining photos include several celebrities doing the poses. 205 pages, $17.95 ORDER HERE, or pick up a copy at the studio.