BIKRAM YOGA CLASS

A couple of years ago, I was intensely practicing Bikram Yoga. I remember I lost a lot of weight and my strength increased.

I seemed to have forgotten, however, how hot it was. We did what a beginner always does… which is to lay down on the Yoga mat just beneath the vent of the “hot, hot” air, 100 something degrees Fahrenheit. Normally, these are the only empty spots in class.

Even though the poses aren't entirely foreign -- I mean it’s a kind of Hatha Yoga -- the heat is something else. It makes it more challenging. It also helps your muscles to warm up more quickly so that your risk of muscular injury is minimized. The heat also helps the body to detox much faster.

Also, there is something magical about going through pain or other challenges; it makes you feel great afterward, as if you have achieved something big. And certainly you have! This is something you can use as a metaphor for your life.

Most Bikram Yoga studios can provide you with what you'll need including towels, Yoga mats, and bottles of water.

My recommendations to you are as follows:

1. Don’t drink too much water right before the class as it will make you sweat more.
2. Bring water to have during and after class.
3. Stay away from the vent. Try to find a spot in the class well away from it, especially if this is your first class.
4. Bring clothes to change into afterward.
5. Don’t give up after the first class. You’ll be amazed by how much strength and tolerance you are able to build up to with just a few more classes.
6. You don’t have to do it all. You can lay down when you feel overwhelmed by the heat.
7. Don’t forget to ENJOY!!

Indra K