One frequent criticism of Bikram yoga is that it does not sufficiently incorporate the meditative elements of more traditional techniques, but this need not, and should not, be the case.
Take a Positive Approach
Approach Bikram yoga as a 90-minute session of moving meditation to experience the greatest benefits on offer. Whilst helping to achieve peace of mind and mental clarity, this will also support the development of key attributes such as determination, patience, concentration and self-discipline. If you are new to meditation techniques, bear the following in mind whenever practising Bikram, or in fact, any other activity:
- You have committed yourself to the session, now claim the time as your own. You will only lose out by allowing yourself to be easily distracted, preoccupied by outside affairs or lending thoughts to the past or to the future. Acknowledge distracting thoughts and then release them as you would a feather into the breeze.
- Practice mindful breathing by observing the natural rhythm of the breath. This can be done during any activity. With a little time and attention the breathing will deepen on its own accord, bringing benefits such as increased mental clarity, improved concentration, increased energy levels and a reduction in the harmful effects of stress.
- Consider trying therapeutic herbal infusions, for example chamomile or lemon balm, or flower essences to help instill a sense of inner calm.
During Class
- Focus on correct techniques and alignment rather than pure aesthetics. Allow yourself to let go of any niggling insecurities. If your self talk turns negative, quieten your inner voice and bring your full attention back to the posture at hand.
- Always listen carefully to and follow the teacher’s dialogue. Do not race ahead in postures, even if you have practiced them countless times before.
- Equip yourself with a few positive affirmations as internal mantra to refer to at appropriate times during class. These may be statements like:
“Right here, right now, all is well in my world.”
“I am taking steps to release everything that causes me hurt.”
“I am willing to let all my experiences be full of joy and love.”
Whatever words you choose, it is just important that they resonate within you.
- On every out-breath imagine you are exhaling all traces of negativity you have accumulated and during each inhalation visualise fresh, oxygenated blood and renewed vital energy flowing to all parts of your body from the tips of your toes and fingers to the crown of your head and everywhere in-between.
Last, but not least, do not leave your Bikram basics in the studio where you found them. Transfer the aforementioned skills of patience, determination, concentration and self-discipline to other areas of life to experience an all-round feeling of increased success, health and happiness.
 |
