This type of Yoga is a structure which has flowered from the traditional hatha yoga that we know of. It’s founder, Bikram Choudhury, forged this system in the early 70’s with a combination of 26 posture sequences & 2 breathing exercises that run for a 90 minutes time period, whilst dealing with a humidity of 40% and temperatures rising up to 40°C (≈ 105°F).
- Why the heat? It’s all Science…
- Contrarily to a large number of beliefs, the reason for Bikram Yoga’s very high temperatures is because this thins the blood. When the blood is thick, this creates an acidic atmosphere which causes you to feel tired and sore (and therefore less motivated), whereas on the other hand if your blood is thinner, the acids in your body are then flushing out and in turn this creates an alkaline environment where your immune system is stronger!
- What to take to a Bikram class?
- It’s going to get hot, and it’s going to get sticky. You want to wear something that you will feel the most comfortable in, and won’t get in your way. Try moisture wicking fabrics that will allow you to sweat without making you feel as though you have just taken a shower fully clothed. Remember less is more, so go for a top that has in-built support, which allows you to disregard your bra and still feel like you’re well protected. Bring your yoga mat and a large towel to place over your it. Although the water you bring to class won’t have time to enter your system fully in the time that you will be in class (make sure you drink plenty before going to class!) take some water to refresh your mouth every once in a while.
Hope this helps 🙂 Let us know what you think in the comment section below!
Yogi Hugs from Yogamasti x
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