bikram yoga (or hot yoga)

Bikram Yoga is a popular style of yoga created by Bikram Choudhury in the 1970s. It is characterized by a sequence of 26 postures and two breaths performed in a yoga room heated to a temperature of around 40°C. This style of yoga is known for its intensity and health benefits, as well as its approach to studio practice.

Origins of Bikram yoga

Bikram Yoga was created by Bikram Choudhury, a former Indian yoga champion. Choudhury developed the method after suffering an accident that

damaged his legs. He created this style of yoga to speed up his recovery and help rebalance his body. He decided to practice in a hot room to speed up the effects of the practice on his body and improve flexibility.

However, over the years, Choudhury's career has been marked by numerous scandals , including accusations of sexual harassment, discrimination and misconduct. As a result, many Bikram yoga studios were closed and Choudhury lost his reputation as a yoga leader.

In 2016, Choudhury was sued for sexual harassment by six women and was ordered to pay millions of dollars in damages. Since then, his career has been largely shelved and he has been forced to leave the United States.

In conclusion, although Bikram Choudhury played an important role in popularizing Bikram yoga, his late career was marked by scandals that significantly tarnished his reputation.

A Netflix documentary traces the life of Bikram Choudhury and talks about the scandals.

Course of a Bikram Yoga class

A Bikram Yoga class generally lasts 90 minutes and includes a sequence of 26 postures, designed to work each muscle, joint and organ of the body. The postures are performed at a brisk pace to increase blood circulation and body temperature, which can help eliminate toxins and improve flexibility. Each posture is associated with specific breathing which helps strengthen the respiratory system and improve concentration.

Of course, as it is hot in the room, you must bring suitable yoga clothing. For men, a swimsuit boxer is perfect. On the women's side, tight-fitting shorts are often preferred. In all cases, you must come with your bottle or flask of water.

Who is bikram yoga for?

Bikram Yoga is designed to be accessible to everyone, regardless of level and physical abilities. However, it can be a bit difficult for beginners, as it takes place in a hot room and has many fast, intensive movements.

It is therefore important to remember that everyone can progress at their own pace and not to compare yourself to other practitioners. The benefits of Bikram Yoga include improved flexibility, reduced stress, increased endurance and improved blood circulation. It is an ideal practice for people looking to improve their overall fitness and mental well-being.

In conclusion, Bikram Yoga is an intense style of yoga that focuses on the sequence of postures in a hot room. This practice can be difficult for beginners , but can provide many health benefits, including improved flexibility