Wetter is Better

•  Sweat It Out with Bikram Yoga  •

(Yep, the studio is actually this steamy!)

 Spotted @  Red Tree Bikram Yoga
                      12 Drummond Street, Suite #2

      

 Who:  Marlison and Rach were first-timers at Lucie's Saturday morning Bikram class. Along with us was one other Bikram newbie and a spectrum of regulars ranging from beginner to advanced. Lucie started her Bikram journey in 2008 in Acapulco, Mexico and has been teaching ever since. A former triathlete, she enjoys the physical challenge and benefits of practicing Bikram. She strives to provide her students with a disciplined pracice, constantly giving cues to improve our poses and pushing us to achieve just a little bit more. One of Lucie’s favourite quotes is, “You can do anything if you set your mind for it.” (We agree, Bikram is certainly mind over matter!)

 What:  Bikram with Lucie

Bikram Yoga is a structured practice of 26 postures and 2 breathing exercises in elevated heat (105ºF baby!). The practice is systematically designed to warm and stretch muscles and ligaments while moving fresh, oxygenated blood to the entire body. A disciplined practice, Bikram's key focus is on each individual pose as opposed to flow. Each pose is done twice with rest, allowing you to re-set and focus on gradual and noticeable improvements.

 Wore:  Less is more. We suggest light, breathable clothes - think shorts & a sports bra. We pulled out our moisture wicking Boogie shorts & Luxtreme shorts from hibernation and paired them with our bra of choice: Flow Y, Energy and Ebb & Flow. You'll be working up a serious sweat so make sure you wear something that'll keep you cool and comfortable!

(Not comfortable in minimal clothing? Don't worry, there were bodies of all shapes & sizes present. Plus everyone was so focused on their own individual practice, you have nothing to fear and nothing to lose ..except for some body heat!)

       
(Note: Colour coordination not planned)

 When:  Lucie teaches classes regularly throughout the week. Check the online schedule for details!

 Why Bikram: 

Rumor has it Bikram is one of the hottest and hardest yoga practices ..you heard right!  The goal of Bikram is discipline, not perfection. It's more important for you to understand what you are trying to accomplish in each pose, how honestly you try to accomplish your goal, and how loose your muscles and joints have become in comparison to the point at which you began.  And don't be discouraged by the elevated temperatures in the studio - they help to improve stretching and strengthens the immune system to restore all systems to healthy working order.

Still intimidated? We'll be honest, Bikram was one of the most challenging practices we have faced. The physical exertion and heat is unlike any other form of yoga, but more than just the physical challenge, the majority of Bikram is mental strength and concentration. It is suggested not to leave the studio, so don't be afraid to find relief in child's pose or savasana at any time throughout the 90 minutes ..we certainly did! And although Bikram is a demanding practice, there is also a mutual feeling of accomplishment and a proudness that everyone shares.

Warning: Be prepared to sweat! A towel is mandatory and we suggest bringing shower items for post-practice or to layer with lightweight easy to slip on & off items.