I decided to do a quick update, especially to the look of the blog. Something simpler..cleaner. No bullshit, just my words on the page. I tend to get bored easily, so by the time you (however many of you there are) read this, it may have already changed, again.
On the subject of change, I signed up for my second 30 Day Bikram Yoga Challenge, and it will be beginning this Saturday, on the first of September. The challenge is to complete twenty-six classes in thirty days (basically six classes a week). Since this is my second (kinda third) go around, I already know what to expect, but I intend on blogging about my experience, as I actually hope to complete the challenge, as I've finished a few classes short the previous time.
I first got into Bikram around three years ago, via a friend from high school. She had tried it, and was hooked. She told me about it, I checked out the site, and decided to give it a whirl. I've kinda been hooked ever since too, attending classes off and on for the last number of years. When I first tried it with my friend, I was actually unemployed but had saved a lot of money, so I had the luxury of going to classes regularly, and could afford it. We went for a solid month once, so that's why I kind of count this official second challenge as my third.
This type of yoga isn't for everyone. It's a type of hatha - meaning hot - yoga, obviously meaning it's wicked hot: ranging from 99-106 degrees. I've done a 106* class...it's no picnic! It's muggy, at 40-50% humidity, and not many people agree with the way the class is conducted, as it's not a traditional style (bright lights, mirrors, carpet, and the way the dialogue is directed to you via the instructors). It's not a calm, meditative style. The instructor is constantly talking to you, except for the two minutes of rest during class, and instruction is delivered in a way to push you ("Lock the knee! Lock your knee!").
Let's just say: most people I've convinced to come with me and try a class...have never returned. Which is fine, it's just not their thing. I just happen to love it. Am I crazy? Maybe. But I'd much rather sweat it out for an hour and a half than take up jogging (something I still want to commit to one day!). It's just what I like for my primary exercise, but it's not always convenient to go, as the studio is about half an hour away from where I live, and can cost quite a bit of money.
Anyway, I will be tracking my progress over the next thirty days, and will post anything I feel is noteworthy, including any weight/measurement loss, ease/difficulty with postures, overall well being, etc.
I am pretty excited. I haven't been to class in about a month, so I know the first few classes may be a bit of a struggle, but I'll be in my groove once the weekend has passed. Fridays will be my official rest day, as they do not have a late night class that day, along with any other day where I may just end up having plans. In that case, I can do what is called a Double, to make up for missed classes. AKA: Two classes in one day! Yikes. Not my favourite thing to do, but I've done some before, and it wasn't so bad.
If anyone should happen to stumble upon my blog and was ever curious about trying Bikram, this will give you some insight, I hope. I'm not a pro, but I know enough to give sound advice on the subject. If you have any questions, just leave me a comment!
Namaste!
