When most people think of yoga, images of chanting and people maneuvering into seemingly impossible positions come to mind. Yoga is NOT just for the fantastically flexible. In fact, if you are not flexible, if you cannot touch your toes, or perhaps cannot even see your toes, you are a perfect candidate for the benefits of yoga.

Bikram Yoga is a series of 26 postures and 2 breathing exercises suitable for all ages and levels of ability. Each posture stretches, strengthens and prepares specific muscles, ligaments and joints needed for the next posture. The Bikram method also stimulates the organs, glands, and nerves, moving fresh oxygenated blood to 100 percent of the body, restoring all systems to a healthy working order. Bikram scientifically designed this 90-minute program to deliver total health through the balancing and strenthening of every system in the body in order to prevent illness, injury, promote weight loss, and limit the effects of agin.

When should I arrive?

First-time student registration is 25 minutes prior to class. Please be on time!

What do I need for class?

A yoga mat* A towel (beach size)* Proper attire: wear something light and fitted such as: sport bras, shorts, and spandex short/leggings. Avoid sweats, long pants, heavy t-shirts, as we heat the room Positive attitude Empty stomach (avoid eating 2 hours prior to class) Proper hydration Bottle of water*

*We have water for sale, towels for rent and mats for rent/purchase at the studio in case you forget!

What are some of the benefits of Bikram (Hot) Yoga?

Reduce stress Increases vitality, energy, relaxation Increases blood circulation Keeps joints juicy, increases muscle stress around joint to support under pressure Improves immunity (e.g. arthritis and thyroid disorders) A sense of well being that spreads into your life Promotes Weight Loss

Why the heated room?

The heat combined with the sequence of the poses is what makes Bikram Yoga so special. The room is heated intentionally to warm muscles, which allows you to go deeper in a shorter amount of time, seeing results. Heat takes the trauma out of stretching, heals and also helps prevent injuries. Also, your skin is the largest eliminative organ in your body. Yoga is not just about working the muscles. You are massaging deep tissues, gland and organs as well. As you work deep within your body, you start to release “poisons” or “toxins” that have been stored there a long time. Sweating helps flush the toxins out of your body, giving you a wonderful glow from head to toe.

Is Bikram Yoga a cardiovascular workout and can I lose weight?

No matter what your fitness level, you will find Bikram Yoga very challenging. Each posture combines flexibility, strength and balance to work your whole body from your bones to your skin. With persistence, patience, and dedication, you can lose inches and develop muscle tone and strength that might never come from other forms of exercise.

Most people do not experience dramatic weight loss according to a scale because as you are losing fat, you are building muscle mass. What you will see is a general slimming all over: your clothes fit better, your posture is better, and your skin will GLOW!

Do I need to drink water before class?

Drink plenty of water. You can lose up to 3-5 pounds of water weight during class. This is NOT good weight to lose. It is easy to get dehydrated, so make sure you are drinking plenty of water after class and the entire day before you come to class. You are less likely to feel lightheaded or dizzy during class if you‘ve had enough to drink in the hours preceding class. Being full hydrated helps take pressure off of organs to do there jobs and helps flush the body and keep it running smoothly. The most typical excuse for not drinking water is the increased visits to the restroom. Your body will adjust to the increased water intake. You may also find benefits of decreased body odor, smoother skin, and shinier hair.