Exploring Bikram Yoga Benefits

Bikram yoga was developed by Bikram Choudhury and is also known as hot yoga as it is practiced at high temperatures (typically 42 degrees Celsius/108 degrees Fahrenheit). It consists of 26 postures that systematically work the entire body including the internal organs, ligaments, muscles and veins. Although each part of the system focuses on a different part of the body, everything works together in synergy to create benefits for the whole body. This particular style of yoga uses high heat with the understanding that a warm body is more flexible, therefore more receptive of reshaping. The heat also helps with flushing impurities out of, and bringing nourishment to, the body.

There are many studios situated around the world with certified Bikram yoga teachers leading classes. These requirements are in place so that only the cleanest and purest form of Bikram yoga is taught. The 26 Bikram yoga postures keep fresh, oxygenated blood circulating throughout the body to keep it in healthy working order. The program is meant to inspire good health, proper weight, muscle tone and well being. Those just beginning the class will be introduced to Bikram yoga poses from the asana series that warm and stretch the ligaments, muscles and tendons in a specific order.

When done properly, Bikram yoga benefits are plentiful. For instance, this yoga helps raise one's energy level, improve circulation, intensify balance, coordination, discipline and focus. It also can reduce sports injury risks, stress effects and weight while relieving pain, help reestablish flexibility, strengthen the spine and tone the muscles. Bikram yoga also keeps the body’s systems balanced and healthy. In other words, every system of the body including the circulatory, digestive, elimination, endocrine, mental, muscular, nervous, respiratory and skeletal systems function in balanced harmony in order to maximize and maintain ideal health. The heat used in conjunction with the poses also has its own benefits including building endurance, burning calories, flushing toxins from the body and making the muscles more flexible.

Some students feel dizzy, nauseous or tired after the first class. However, this is not unusual. It is recommended that students be properly hydrated before and after the session. When the body gets the proper amount of water, it can better tolerate exercise in a heated room. This sensation should pass after a few classes as the body cleanses itself and gets used to the exercise.

While this type of yoga should be perfected in a very hot room, it's possible to practice the postures at home, either with a DVD or via yoga classes online. Bikram yoga can be practiced by anyone no matter the age, fitness level or health level as long as the will to go through the program exists.