New yoga trend turns up the heat
Published: 13 May, 2009, 11:34
Edited: 15 January, 2010, 12:26
With swimsuit season not far off, people are scrambling to shed the extra pounds and get into shape. Some yoga lovers have found an unusually hot way to lose weight – exercising in a sauna.
Bikram Yoga is arguably the healthiest way to lose weight. The sport, which is quickly gaining popularity in the US, has a rather odd motto: ‘love your sweaty neighbor as you love thyself’.
Yoga instructor Jacquelyn Reaves noted that the class is wholly different to any other typical gym activities:
“Even though you can go to the gym and do a regular workout, it will not quite have the same results as you would get from a Bikram Yoga class.”
Bikram Yoga is much more than a typical aerobic workout. Students have to exercise in a scorching hot sauna for a 90 whole minutes, but it is not just about standing around and sweating: they will have to try and fold their arms, legs, hands and bodies into some very compromising positions.
“It’s mind, body and soul – all encompassing. You sweat a lot, so it’s a lot of cleansing, a lot of detoxifying,” Jacquelyn Reaves explained.
The 90-minute alternative workout claims to reduce stress, maintain balance and build flexibility. It will also help shed a few pounds just in time for slipping into those bikinis.
Most enthusiasts of the sport think of it as more than simply exercise. It helps them feel like a whole new person. One of the Bikram students shared their feeling with RT:
“I feel like I’m like in heaven. Basically, taking class is like taking a shower from the inside.”
Although it may be a major relief for those more experienced in yoga, first-timers seem to only look forward to taking a nice cold shower from the outside afterwards.
12.05.2009, 19:59
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Jackie was the best yoga instructor I ever had. I was so shocked when I saw her in this article. Jackie introduced me to Bikram yoga...it really is a challenge and yes very sweaty!