Hot Yoga or Bikram Yoga has numerous potential benefits to the body. Bikram Chaudhry developed this variation in yogic postures in the early 70s. He modified and included 24 yoga asana and two breathing exercises in the hot yoga sessions designed to benefit the total body. Yoga is an ancient form of exercise, asymmetrical with the Western concept of exercises that include running, weight lifting, push-ups, jumps, etc. Hot yoga offers modifications along these lines.
The Atmosphere for Hot Yoga
Hot yoga requires 105° Fahrenheit or 40° Celsius temperature inside a studio room where a group of yogis performs these exercises. A relative humidity of 40% sustained in the room adds to this amazing and unique experience.
Preparation before Hot Yoga
Stay well hydrated before taking a hot yoga class, drink ample water to get you through the “sweat time” in the class. Before a class, eat a light and sparse meal. Once the session is over, always restore the lost minerals and electrolyte with an energy drink or real coconut water.
Benefits of Hot Yoga Exercises
The philosophy of hot yoga is very logical and clear. Yoga practiced in a heated room increases the body metabolism and rejuvenates heart, bringing suppleness in the blood vessels. This allows the blood circulation to flow smoothly to all parts of the body that includes the brain and legs. Here are its multiple benefits.
Weight loss: Hot yoga is good for those who want to shed off their unwanted weight. This supports their quest to lose weight by regular hot yoga in very warm and sweaty conditions.
Helps to avoid injuries: In colder conditions, the body becomes prone to injuries such as sprained and pulled muscles. In hot conditions, the risk of injuries reduces dramatically. This is why athletes and sportspeople warm up properly before their events or workouts.
Detoxifies: The prime benefit of hot yoga is detoxification, as excessive sweating flushes out the toxins from the body through the skin. One feels great after sweating out, as toxins are bad for the health.
Blood circulation: Hot yoga is a great cardiovascular exercise, as this invigorates and regularizes blood circulation. After the session, one feels immense freshness and lightness in the body.
Breathing exercise to enhance lungs’ efficiency: The breathing exercises or pranayama are the part of the styles, traditional yoga & hot yoga as well. The hot yoga helps the lungs to function better.
Fortifies immune system: Your immune system resists foreign bodies and disease and it is essential for a healthy body. Exercising in sizzling hot conditions enhances cell generative capabilities and boost general immune system.
Benefits Lymphatic System: All the yoga postures are good for the lymphatic system. However, hot yoga in comparison is better. The vessels that take lymph towards heart become stronger. This is supportive to the immune system.
Flexibility in the body: After a few sessions of hot yoga, you can notice improved bending flexibility in the joints and muscles. Your body becomes supple and ready for exercises that are more strenuous.
Hot yoga directly relates to comprehensive physical fitness, adding to your strength, endurance, and flexibility.
