Bikram Yoga: Characteristics And Benefits
Yoga is an ancient practice carried out by millions of people around the world. There are, however, different types. The ideal is therefore to know all its variants to know which one best suits your needs. Bikram yoga is an alternative to the discipline. The trait that can capture our attention the most is that its place of practice must have a temperature of over 40 ° C.
This type of yoga is one of the most popular practices when it comes to both relaxing and exercising. Thanks to the heat it uses, practitioners have greater flexibility when performing the movements. It is therefore easier to practice it and adopting its different postures does not produce pain.
By the way, it is important to emphasize that although it appeared a very long time ago, it is only starting to be fashionable in several Western countries. In terms of the difficulty of its postures, we are talking about a branch that requires some practice because of its requirements.
Where does Bikram yoga come from?
This type of yoga was born thanks to Bikram Choudhury. His motivation to seek a greater connection with his body arose from an accident. Following the latter, he discovered that exercising in a high temperature environment promoted this communication.
He thus managed to heal completely. Her pain lessened thanks to her practice. From that moment on he started to be surrounded by people who wanted to do what he was doing. People who, after the good results obtained, praised all the benefits of his method and his ideas, thus helping the development of Bikram yoga.
Bikram Choudhury therefore developed a new technique applied to yoga that combines western and eastern knowledge. The program lasts 90 minutes and 26 asanas or postures must be fully performed. Breathing exercises should also be done in a room with a high temperature.
Each of the respective asanas is intended to treat the different systems of the body. The postures are specifically characterized by their use of balance, breathing and various stretching exercises on a mat. Although it may not seem difficult, it takes strength in the arms and legs to perform each asana.
What are the benefits of Bikram yoga?
Release toxins
One of the most notable benefits of Bikram yoga is the release of toxins. Exposure to high temperatures precisely allows the body to release toxins more quickly through respiration.
A study published by Environment International ensures that sweating helps eliminate toxins from the body. People who practice this discipline would produce a liter of sweat per session. Therefore, the ideal is to hydrate the body well before starting a session. Bringing a bottle of water is absolutely recommended to avoid dehydration.
Extreme relaxation
The high temperature of the environment also promotes bodily relaxation. The muscles of the body will be much more relaxed and vascularized, which will increase their flexibility. In the event of injury or recovery, heat also helps reduce the sensation of pain.
Without training levels
Bikram yoga can be practiced by a beginner or an advanced athlete. However, it is recommended to start gradually when it comes to asanas. The heat factor can confuse those who have never practiced yoga and hamper their progress.
Some contraindications to take into account
Bikram yoga is contraindicated for pregnant women or people with certain circulatory problems (consult a doctor before practicing it). The heat causes the channels through which our blood circulates to dilate and lowers our pressure.
Also, as we get older, we should pay more attention to exposure to high temperatures. Despite everything, there are people over 60 who practice it without any side effects. Finally, it should be noted that if it is practiced under specific conditions, such as when you have a cold, fever, or after a week of heat, it is not recommended to do it. Know that Bikram yoga can be of real benefit in reducing tension and balancing the mind.
Our thoughts Yoga is a very widespread practice that significantly improves the spiritual balance of those who practice it. Discover all its benefits on the …
