Yoga for fitness and more

I’ve never been consistent with my physical exercise. I know very well that I need to keep myself fit but I’ve been unable to follow a regular exercise routine (not strong enough will power, I guess…). I’m sure all of us understand the importance of keeping our body fit for it’s the only vehicle that carries us. Without a sound body we’ll be limited in many ways and it’s in our best interest to maintain and keep it fit. I joined the gym worked out for around 8 months and quit. I started jogging, 3 to 4 times a week but sometimes there’s a gap of more than 3 to 4 months. I go swimming and hiking sometimes but still think my body is not having the minimum required exercise and this time I’ve decided to try something new. I wanted to try Yoga.

I’ve been practicing Bikram yoga for around 3 months and I can feel without any doubt the positive changes it has brought to my body. It keeps me fresh and less stressed. But I think it is some how inspiring me to change my mind and soul too. After a month of starting yoga practice I started becoming interested in meditation and I’ve just started practicing mindfulness meditation too. I’ll write about my meditation experience later after I have something to say. At this moment I’ve just started. Back to my Bikram Yoga experience.

Bikram yoga is a customized version of Hatha Yoga for beginners. It consists of 26 postures and 2 breathing exercise. It takes exactly 90 minutes to complete the postures. Bikram Yoga is done in a heated studio (37 degrees). The heat warms your muscles and allows you to work safely. The heat also helps to heal and prevent injuries. The intense sweating flushes toxins from the body. Bikram claims these yoga poses work “every single tendon, ligament and muscle, from bones to skin, inside out”!

I freaked out the first day because of the heat and my sub-conscious mind telling me that I might suffocate in this heat and wont survive the next 90 minutes. But I hung on for 90 minutes, which I don’t regret. First 3 classes were like staying in sauna doing some exercise and sweating like hell. After 4 or 5 times you’ll forget about the heat and sweat and can feel the benefit your body is getting. The instructors keep on yelling full 90 minutes reminding you how to do the postures and I think it’s very helpful. The environment inside the studio is amazing, it motivates you to give your best. I’ve started doing yoga at home too but it’s never the same as in studio. Most of the instructors always say “concentrate, meditate and do it. You will be amazed to see what your body is capable of!” Now I totally agree with them. I’m just amazed at what I can do with my body. Roll in the half moon pose, with my forehead touching the knee and standing on my belly like a cobra. Every posture in Bikram yoga prepares you for the next one. It’s very carefully crafted and I’ve no doubt at Bikram’s claim.

If you are interested and if you are in Hong Kong, you can check the Bikram Yoga Hong Kong site for details. This is the official site of Bikaram Yoga and they seem to have yoga centers all around the world. Quickfit yoga Australia has Bikram Yoga details and the Bikram Yoga Pose Pictures.

Now I’ve no doubt that yoga is one of the best way to keep your body fit and I’ve some feeling that besides body it helps to keep the mind and soul together.

Note: Bikram’s photo has been taken from the Wikipedia which links to the Bikram Yoga site.