A series of slow and controlled movements concluded by graceful poses, sweat trickling down every part of the body and the sound of deep and conscious breathing is what Bikram Yoga in NYC may appear to be on the outside, although in essence, its potential benefits outweigh the physical exertion by far.
Bikram's fame spread rapidly through the early 1970 studios and mushrooming practices, into the hearts and homes of Hollywood stars like Madonna, Demi Moore and George Clooney to name but a few. Upon attending a class, it is therefore a usual sight to see celebrities amongst the sweaty bodies.
Bikram Choudhury, its multi-millionaire founder and 'owner', is surrounded by controversy, obviously sparked by his elegant fleet of Rolls Royces and Bentleys. However unapologetic he appears to be about his growing empire, many debates still rage about his stringent copyright laws on the exercise and levies charged for outside instructors to profit from its teaching.
A set structure of twenty-six poses is performed in a heated room exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit, which equates to approximately 40.6 degrees Celsius (each session lasts 90 minutes). Exercising under this extreme heat is thought to decrease the risk of injury or muscle strain and encourage deeper and longer stretching. 2 distinct breathing exercises function as an introduction and end to the class, as is common with all forms of yoga and/or meditation.
The poses, are called 'asanas', and are based upon two fundamental dynamics, according to Choudhury. These are extension and compression. What is meant by these terms is that with every pose, a particular body part is compressed, thus decreasing blood flow to the area or cutting it off completely. Another part of the body is therefore completely extended. When the pose ends, a rapid rush of blood to the previously compressed areas, occurs due to the pressure, causing an increased flow of oxygenated blood to the whole body. This results in an increase in circulation and has detoxifying effects on the body.
Positive effects extend passed the obvious benefit of weight-loss, although even the extent of this benefit is varied according to each person's individual anatomical make-up. Other benefits include muscle toning, increased flexibility and better sleep.
This form of yoga has expanded across the world, where many swear by its benefits, despite controversies surrounding its associations with sex and sensuality. Although it does not suit the taste or physicality of every practitioner, for those who practice it regularly, it is nothing short of a wonder-worker.
Bikram Yoga NYC
Bikram's fame spread rapidly through the early 1970 studios and mushrooming practices, into the hearts and homes of Hollywood stars like Madonna, Demi Moore and George Clooney to name but a few. Upon attending a class, it is therefore a usual sight to see celebrities amongst the sweaty bodies.
Bikram Choudhury, its multi-millionaire founder and 'owner', is surrounded by controversy, obviously sparked by his elegant fleet of Rolls Royces and Bentleys. However unapologetic he appears to be about his growing empire, many debates still rage about his stringent copyright laws on the exercise and levies charged for outside instructors to profit from its teaching.
A set structure of twenty-six poses is performed in a heated room exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit, which equates to approximately 40.6 degrees Celsius (each session lasts 90 minutes). Exercising under this extreme heat is thought to decrease the risk of injury or muscle strain and encourage deeper and longer stretching. 2 distinct breathing exercises function as an introduction and end to the class, as is common with all forms of yoga and/or meditation.
The poses, are called 'asanas', and are based upon two fundamental dynamics, according to Choudhury. These are extension and compression. What is meant by these terms is that with every pose, a particular body part is compressed, thus decreasing blood flow to the area or cutting it off completely. Another part of the body is therefore completely extended. When the pose ends, a rapid rush of blood to the previously compressed areas, occurs due to the pressure, causing an increased flow of oxygenated blood to the whole body. This results in an increase in circulation and has detoxifying effects on the body.
Positive effects extend passed the obvious benefit of weight-loss, although even the extent of this benefit is varied according to each person's individual anatomical make-up. Other benefits include muscle toning, increased flexibility and better sleep.
This form of yoga has expanded across the world, where many swear by its benefits, despite controversies surrounding its associations with sex and sensuality. Although it does not suit the taste or physicality of every practitioner, for those who practice it regularly, it is nothing short of a wonder-worker.
Bikram Yoga NYC
No comments:
Post a Comment