Things You'll Need:
- Will power
- Your own yoga mat (because the studio mats can be sweaty)
- A lot of water
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Step 1
There are a few elements that are crucial to Bikram. The poses are alignment-oriented and you will be asked to mirror the instructor. In fact, there are mirrors in all Bikram classes so there won't be a problem watching yourself or the instructor. All poses are accompanied by Kapalabhati breathing which is a forceful exhale and passive inhale, drawing the breath from the lower abdomen.
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Step 2
You will start with standing postures, rooting your feet in the ground and holding the poses. The breath will be forceful and you'll feel the body heat up quickly.
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Step 3
Next you will do a sequence of backbends. Be careful if you have lower back problems. You will continuously be asked to tuck your tailbone. The instructor's script in every class is the same, so if you go often, you'll be able to memorize what you're supposed to do.
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Step 4
After backbends you'll do forward bends. These are less strenuous but the Kapalabhati breathing will keep you sweating.
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Step 5
The class concludes with various twists. This is where you twist out all the toxins in your body.
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Step 6
Overall, Bikram Yoga is great for cleansing the body, but you do need to be careful that you drink enough fluids and that you listen to your body and its limits.
