Yoga - Bikram

Browse the local directory for Bikram Yoga

Bikram yoga was developed by Bikram Choudhury and it consists of a series of 26 poses and two breathing exercises that are performed in a room that is heated to approximately 37 degrees. The poses are demanding but performing them in a heated room means that muscles become more pliant and the heat encourages sweating, which purifies the body.

Heating the Room

The reasons for heating the room include:

greater flexibility
less chance of muscle strains
less chance of injuries
promotes cleansing and purification of the body
builds endurance and stamina

Benefits of Bikram Yoga

There are many benefits to Bikram yoga. It can:

assist in detoxification of the body
improve the circulatory system
help the body burn fat more effectively
speed up the metabolism
improve a person’s willpower, self-control and determination
strengthen the cardiovascular system
reshape the body
reduce injuries
reduce stress
increase energy levels
strengthens the back, reducing back pain
improve breathing
help with chronic illnesses or injuries
assist weight loss
improve the posture

Bikram Yoga Classes

Classes run for ninety minutes and start with a breathing exercise before going through the series of poses, which work the entire body. Every pose works the specific muscles, ligaments and joints that are needed for the next pose, and in this way, the class flows. The class ends with another breathing exercise that helps the body to eliminate toxins. The poses in Bikram yoga are designed to act as a tourniquet – massaging the internal organs while cleansing the cardiovascular system and stimulating the nervous system. In fact, Bikram yoga works every system within the body – the endocrine, lymphatic, immune, muscular, digestive and skeletal, making it a low-impact, whole-body workout.

Who Can Do Bikram Yoga?

Bikram yoga is suitable for people of all ages and abilities and classes are held with a teacher acting as a guide. No special equipment is needed, except for a yoga mat and suitable clothing.

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References

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How the Body Relaxes

Relaxation is important for everyone, to let go of the stress of everyday life and recharge. There are many, many different ways that the body can relax and which one you choose will depend on the amount of time you have and what you are comfortable with.

Yoga and Mental Health

Good mental health can be defined as a balanced, healthy approach to life that is reflected by ones attitude.

Associations

The Natural Health Practitioners of New Zealand Incorporated


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