Hot Bikram yoga: A Few Important Things to Know!

Posted by drypyoga on October 24th, 2019

Bikram Yoga was introduced by Bikram Choudhury in 1970S. This form of yoga is often referred to as hot yoga because the rooms in which this form of yoga is practised by maintaining a temperature of 105-degree. This yoga comprises a 90-minute sequence featuring 26 postures which are to be repeated twice. This form of yoga was first introduced in the US; however hot Bikram yoga studios can now be found across the globe. 

What hot Bikram yoga does for your body? 

You must be wondering why Bikram yoga is practised in a hot room. Well, this is because of certain reasons. As per Choudhury, the practising of 26 yoga postures in a sequence within 90 minutes inside a heated room is done so that your body can stretch, detoxify, tone, relieve stress, and heal chronic pain that you may have been suffering from. The potential health benefits of hot Bikram yoga also include better glucose tolerance, bone density, and blood lipid profile. Apart from this, you must already be aware that this form of yoga is highly beneficial for those wanting to lose weight. 

What should you keep in mind as a beginner in practising hot Bikram yoga?

First and foremost rule is that you must arrive at the studio early. Try to reach the hot Bikram yoga studio at least 30 minutes prior to the session so that you get sufficient time to get dressed accordingly, settle down, and acclimate your body to the heat. Apart from this, you must also spend some time familiarizing yourself with the instructor so that you can inform them if at all you have any injuries. The instructor needs to be aware of this before beginning the session so that there are no issues later on.

Remember, you are going to sweat a lot so only wear light clothing that is breathable and makes it easier for you to bear the heat. 

What should you eat before the session?

Avoid eating anything for at least 2 hours before the hot yoga session. A full stomach will make it easier for you to practice the different postures. However, you must not go on an empty stomach. The best thing to do is to consume half a banana or some energy-boosting drink. Basically, you need to test out what works best for you. Once the session gets over, you must drink coconut water to replenish the lost electrolytes. 

Apart from all this, you must also focus on drinking a sufficient amount of water. You must drink at least 8 to 9 glasses of water every day, but you have been unable to do so, you must not fill your stomach with water just before the session. Carry out the necessary research to find a good hot Bikram yoga studio for your practice.