Bikram Yoga   vs   Hot Yoga

What is the difference between Bikram Yoga and Hot Yoga?

 

Bikram Yoga is the Original Hot Yoga!

 

From the early 1970s until approximately 2010, Bikram Yoga – also known as the 26 & 2 – was equivalent to “hot yoga”.  Its unparalleled benefits and worldwide popularity inspired many to try to imitate it.

So….since the early 2010s, many other “hot yoga” and heated fitness trends have proliferated, especially in North America.  However, it is not the heat that makes this yoga work.  The sequence, principles, and practice methods create the transformative benefits of the “90-minute miracle”.

Bikram Yoga remains the original and time-tested therapeutic heated hatha yoga.  It is associated with scientifically proven health benefits and is truly accessible to all ages and bodies.

Traditional, Therapeutic Yoga Methods

 

It will not take long for you to experience the difference between the Bikram Yoga method and the various types of hot yoga.  This is a rough comparison – as “hot yoga” can be one of many dozens of things – but we hope it will give you some idea of the differences.

Bikram Yoga and Ghosh lineage Hot Yoga
Repeated Beginner Sequence (26 postures and 2 breathing exercises) for first several years Various sequences depending on the teacher
Comprehensive treatment of every muscle group, joint, and major system in the body Varying sequences may or may not cover each muscle and system
Method accessible to ages 70+, men/women Often mostly accessible to flexible young women
No inversions for beginners; no downward dog; no getting up and down from standing to floor Depending on teacher, downward dog and inversions may be present
Stillness during and after every posture Movement and stillness depends on teacher; stillness becoming less common
Specific Tourniquet Effect in every posture for specific health benefits Tourniquet effect might take place in some postures
Emphasizes SPINE strength, mobility, and circulation Commonly emphasizes hip mobility and arm/shoulders; less focus on spine
Possible to do while injured or partially immobilized, even with cast, broken bones, etc. Often requires ability to walk, stand, or put weight on wrists and shoulders
Emphasis on mental aspects and mastery of basics and breathing Often emphasis on “interesting” or new postures, fitness trends such as barre, pole, etc.
Consistent since 1972; Ghosh lineage dates to 1930s Varying histories and many new trends
Goal: therapeutic benefits and concentration Goal: various
Detailed instruction of form throughout, moment by moment Varying amounts of instruction
No soundtrack Music is likely
Emphasis on moving together with the words Common emphasis on doing “whatever feels right”
Interventional research on the specific sequence and method demonstrates tangible benefits to several internal systems Variety makes research difficult, and claims cannot be translated to other versions
Emphasis on self-realization and awareness

Yoga teaches us to cure what need not be endured and endure what cannot be cured.

BKS Iyengar

Bikram Yoga Simsbury Studio

Bikram Yoga Simsbury Studio

Abigail's Restaurant

Abigail’s Restaurant

Mitchell Volvo Cars of Simsbury

Mitchell Volvo Cars of Simsbury

Cumberland Farms Route 10 / 202

Cumberland Farms Route 10 / 202

The Riverview

The Riverview

7 Deer Park Road,

Weatogue, CT 06089

phone: (860)217-1663

 

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What a wonderful gift – that of health and wellness!

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Bikram Yoga Simsbury is a small business wholly owned by Richard and Laurie. We have never been part of any franchise and have never paid any corporate fees.