Turn up the temperature with Bikrum
FOURWAYS - Bikrum Yoga encourages beginners to listen to their body even when panting in a hot room, possibly filled with strangers.
According to Bikram Yoga Fourways owner and teacher, Pebetsi Cele the first thing people react to when starting classes is the heat and humidity from doing this type of yoga. Rooms are usually heated to 40 degrees during a class.
“Many people want to leave their first class, but we always tell people to breathe through their noses, which helps bring calmness to the body,” she said. Bikrum helps with injuries, cholesterol, back pain, thyroid problems and high blood pressure.
Every pose helps a person be more aware of their body and the heat assists with bending and twisting your body.
“There is no direction, but rather dialogue,” said Cele. “The first few postures work on expanding lung capacity and teach you to be more conscious of your breath. The floor and standing series strengthens every muscle and helps with balance. Once you come in and survive it, you’d want to do it again.”
Cele recommends beginners to drink a litre and a half of water and stay hydrated before their classes.
Bikrum Yoga classes are 90 minutes long and students are expected to stay for the full duration.
