Hello fellow Yelpers,
I've been practicing original hot yoga (sometimes called Bikram yoga) for nearly 20 years, attending classes across the US. I've been a member here since my friend Rebekah first opened it, and I also belong to several other local studios.
As a yoga enthusiast who loves taking classes wherever I travel, I always research thoroughly before attending a new one. Yoga styles vary greatly, which is why research is crucial. There are many yoga styles, each with unique benefits and focuses.
* Hatha Yoga: A general term encompassing physical postures (asanas), breathing exercises (pranayama), and meditation.
* Vinyasa Yoga: A flowing style synchronizing movement with breath. Classes can be athletic and challenging.
* Iyengar Yoga: Focuses on proper alignment and props (blocks, straps, bolsters) to support the body in poses.
* Ashtanga Yoga: A vigorous practice following a set series of postures.
* Kundalini Yoga: Combines physical postures, breathing exercises, chanting, and meditation.
* Yin Yoga: A slow-paced style holding passive poses for extended periods.
* Restorative Yoga: A gentle and relaxing style using props to support the body in comfortable poses.
* Hot Yoga can be any one of these styles (and more) practiced in a heated room.
Bikram Yoga (also known as the 26 & 2 series) STANDS ALONE.
As a recent graduate of the Original Hot Yoga 26&2 Teacher Program, I can confidently say it differs from the styles mentioned above. Here's what sets it apart:
* The room is typically heated to 102-105 degrees with high humidity;
* It's known for being challenging;
* The class follows a SPECIFIC series of 26 postures and 2 breathing exercises, always done in the same order over the 90-minute class (with some studios offering 60 & 75 minute classes); and
* Teachers undergo demanding (both physically and mentally) standardized training and deliver classes with a scripted sequence of instructions. While some may find this impersonal, it allows you to focus on breath and form. And it works.
ALL the TEACHERS HERE are amazing, caring, and passionate.
I absolutely adore and respect MELBA. Her dedication to teaching and helping others understand the mental and physical aspects of yoga is evident. She shares valuable wisdom during class that will guide you on and off the yoga mat.
I also thoroughly enjoy classes led by Nicole, Rosario, and Mayu. Petrina's Pilates class was fantastic and energetic - she plays great music!
While some teachers adhere strictly to the script, others make slight modifications.
NO MATTER the location of your Bikram/26&2 class, whether it's in Long Beach, Los Angeles, New York, or even Thailand, the core elements of the dialogue, corrections, and transitions into and out of poses will always be unique to Bikram.
All the teachers advise against wearing perfumes and smelly hygiene products due to the heat, humidity, and potential odor sensitivities of other classmates.
All teachers will advise you to lay down if you feel dizzy or sick and they will ask you to stay in the room throughout the class. Can you imagine rushing out in a panic because you think it's too hot, you feel dizzy or sick? Crashing to the concrete floor outside of the yoga room is a recipe for disaster - who needs a concussion or a cracked head.
They'll also warn you about wearing a full face of makeup, as it can run into your eyes and sting (guilty as charged - rushing in from work and forgot to wash my face before class).
Throughout the class, teachers will remind you to focus on your breath, practice stillness, and minimize fidgeting and unnecessary movements. This includes drinking water during class. There's a reason behind avoiding water during unprompted times - can you imagine doing a sit up in class and you vomit? I promise you it's not pleasant and the person next to you won't be happy.
Educating yourself about the yoga style, class norms, and studio culture BEFOREHAND will enhance your experience and allow you and others to focus on practicing yoga safely and drama-free.
For anyone new to Bikram yoga/26&2, a new studio, or a new teacher, I hope that you find the yoga practice that best suits you and your soul.
But if you find yourself in a situation where your energy doesn't vibe with a studio or a teacher, you shouldn't disrupt class, approach the teacher in an aggressive manner while yelling and calling the teacher out of their name. Such behavior is unnecessary, unbecoming, and unacceptable!
Peace and blessings! read more