Sweating it Out With Bikram Yoga

There are many misconceptions and stereotypes regarding yoga and those who practice the age old discipline. As someone who has dabbled in basic yoga classes over the years, I decided to take my yoga experience to a new level by trying Bikram yoga.

When deciding where to try Bikram yoga, the obvious answer was Bikram Yoga for a 90-minute class in downtown Fullerton. Prior to my first session I was forewarned that I should drink a significant amount of water in advance, as well as bring some. I was also told that during the class I might experience nausea, a warning that proved to be true at least once during the session. Entering the room, the humidity enveloped me. Bikram yoga is also known as "hot yoga." It is ideally practiced in a room heated to 105 degrees fahrenheit with 40 percent humidity.

For those who are more comfortable trying advanced form of poses, the class allows them to push their limits. Those who struggle with the basic positions are encouraged to understand their limits.

There were points during the class where I doubted my ability to carry on, which must be a universal feeling because just as those thoughts entered my mind, the instructor would offer words of encouragement or tell us where to shift our weight as to help with our balance and maintain centered. The session concluded with breathing exercises.

After the class was over, I came to the abrupt realization that I was marinating in my own sweat. Exiting the class, I was greeted with the coolest air I had ever felt.

Bikram proved to be exhilerating, but I would not recommend it for the weak and frail.