Now, let’s kick it up a notch…Bikram Yoga.
Bikram Yoga is nothing new, it has been around since the early 1970s, but its popularity is creating centers in small towns across the country (I have recently moved to a small town in Pennsylvania and there is a center being built not too far from my house). Bikram Yoga goes through the same poses as traditional yoga, only in a room heated to 105 degrees with 40 percent humidity. You read that correctly, most people don’t want to take a casual stroll in 105 degree temperatures, let alone workout.
Stressed? Tired of talking about seating charts and plus ones? Take all of your frustrations and head to your local Bikram Yoga center. No one can sit in that heat for 90 minutes without sweating out the toxins causing tense muscles or exhaling the stress away through the breathing techniques. Bikram will not only loosen your muscles, increase your flexibility, and decrease tension, you are also likely to see improvements in your skin. The stress and toxins that are running rampant on the inside will come out through the open pores from sweating, taking the pressure off your face, decreasing your blemishes…Win Win!
Bikram Yoga can serve as a one-stop-shop for anyone looking to get back on track, eliminate stress, shed a few pounds, increase energy, or detox. Obviously, Bikram Yoga is not for everyone, and anyone thinking about taking a class should not go into the situation lightly. Everyone should be properly hydrated BEFORE going to a class, one could easily become dehydrated in those temperatures from losing an abundance of water by sweating. First time Bikram Yogis should look for classes that are for all levels or specifically for beginners. Even traditional yogis should be careful, same poses, but the heat creates a completely different experience.
Bikram Yoga is an experience, one that everyone should try at least once. The health benefits are endless and the personal satisfaction you will feel after completing a class will make you feel like you can face any challenge.
(Can't tell how old he is, but wouldn't it be great to be this flexible and in shape when all of your hair turns gray?)
Thinking about taking a class, click here to find a class near you! Maybe one day, after the success of Black Girls Run, we’ll have a Black Girls Bikram (smile).
Have you taken a Bikram Yoga class before?
How did you enjoy the class?
If you’re curious, but haven’t taken a class yet, what is holding you back?
