Studio Etiquette
Bikram Yoga is a beginning therapeutic hatha yoga class practiced in a heated room, and goes through a series of 26 yoga postures and two breathing exercises.
The series of postures combine skills of concentration, patience, determination and self-control.
Below is the etiquette of practicing Bikram Yoga once you arrive at the studio for class.
Ask Questions
Feel free to approach the teacher with any questions or concerns before & after class. If you have any pre-existing injuries or modifications for any other reasons, please speak to the teacher before class.
Set Up for Class
No personal belongings allowed in the room. All you need is your yoga mat, towel, water, and an open mind 🙂.Make sure you can see yourself in the mirror (stagger yourself behind the person in front of you).
Keep the Hot Room Peaceful
When you enter the room, be sure to close the door behind you. Please enter the room once to set up your mat and lay down. This prevents our precious heat and humidity from fluctuating too much and will keep the conditions ideal. Maintain silence as you enter the room, as other yogis are mentally preparing for class in silent meditation.
Expect to Sweat
The room is heated & sweating is an intentional component of all of our classes. The heat is to warm your muscles, prevent injuries & allow for a deeper workout. Sweating helps flush toxins from the body.
Drink Water in Between Postures
Make sure you come to class already hydrated. In Bikram Yoga classes, please wait to drink until the instructor indicates it is time (after the warm-up poses). After that, drink as needed in between postures.
Stay in the Room
Please plan to stay in the room for the entire class. Before you talk yourself out of the room, try to lay down on your mat in Savasana.
Give Yourself Permission to ‘Feel All the Feels’
You will feel challenged during class, everyone does. Always work to your edge, but listen to your body. Lay down on your mat if you need to! It’s normal, especially in the beginning, to feel dizzy, nauseous or light headed. It’s temporary & as your body acclimates & detoxes, over time, you should notice improvement with these sensations.
Practice Self Love
During class no one will look at you or judge you. Other people’s focus is on themselves; they are working too hard to even notice you. The teacher will guide you & instruct you, always with compassion & respect.
Stay For A While
Try to stay at least a few minutes after class to cool down & relax.
Eat a Healthy Meal and Hydrate for At Least 24 Hours
During your practice, you will sweat–A LOT. This purifying sweat releases toxins, but it also depletes your body of necessary vitamins and minerals. The easiest way to restore these vital nutrients is through nutrient dense food, plenty of water, and electrolytes.
Bet on Yourself
Please take at least three classes before deciding whether Bikram Yoga is right for you. Your third class will be dramatically different from your first and will allow a clearer assessment. The more regular you are in your practice, the faster you will acclimate and begin to notice changes. Leave With an Open Mind…and Plan to Come Back Tomorrow
Everyday we begin again.