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| I recently went to a new massage therapist/yoga instructor and have since quit going because.....
After I proudly told her I did Bikram Yoga everyday she said....Wow, that's intense. All that heat will deplete your chi (?) and it's basically the McDonalds of Yoga.
Why do some people have such a negative opinion of Bikram Yoga? It's the best thing I ever did for myself. Isn't all Yoga good?
I hope I don't regret starting this thread. 
Edited by gainup 2005-04-11 11:54 PM
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| Everybody seems to have an opinion on Bikram yoga--some from what they've read and heard and some from personal experience. Kinda like cars I think. Ever mention to somebody in passing that you're thinking of buying a car? Ach du lieber! Then you hear all about it--"Don't get a Ford--I had a friend who..." or "Get a Chevy--never had any problems with mine..." You'll probably get similar reactions on other types of yoga, not just Bikram. I started out practicing Bikram having not heard anything bad about it. Seemed it was something I would enjoy and there was no chanting, insense or other "freakiness" associated with it. After a year though, through personal experience, I don't practice it anymore. However, I won't tell you NOT to--you enjoy it so go for it. | |
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Extreme Veteran
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| I would ask her about her experience iwth Bikram. It is really irritating for people to criticize
something they have only heard about. do you feel your chi is depleted? Tell her your experience.
I have had similar doubts inspired by information ( particularly from this board) but its important for everyone to decide for themselves. Some of the criticisms mentioned by people on this board speak of a lack of understanding of posture on the part of Bikram instructors. Do you feel that your instructor corrects alignment mistakes that you are making? That seems to be the major valid criticism of some Bikram classes in my mind.
Otherwise stay hydrated and pay attention to how you feel. | |
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Expert Yogi
Posts: 5098
Location: Somewhere in the Mountains of Western NC | Hey GoGirl,
Well, I'm not a Bikram Basher. I love Bikram and the practice. If you read between the lines on the board, actually, the teacher who gets bashed the most is usually the BEST!! Why do you ask?? Because, the teacher that is hated the most is the one who has hit a nerve and a place where MOST people refuse to visit. Enlightenment ain't easy and is sometimes painful when we take a close look at it, its like peeling an onion, layers and layers of BS to get to the core. I think Bikram falls into the category of being disliked and bashed - bigtime. I think its also funny that Americans have the "give it to me nice and easy" attitude and think that in order to be a Yoga teacher that you have to meet a certain criteria that reminds you of Sunday School or Bible Study Class. I also feel that some "other" yoga type instructors from India had a way of presenting Yoga to these other types of people and is the way they have accepted their Yoga practice to be - which is okay....However, it is also okay for Bikram too...even his lawsuit and copyright is correct, afterall this is America and he is operating his business. Now, where do we find the mutual respect so that everybody is happy?? I could criticize some of the Iyengar people that I know, but what's the point. Look at it this way, we Bikramites are just stronger, we can take the heat..after all Bikram means Famous and we KNOW what happens to famous people now don't we, LOL!! It comes with the territory  | |
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| Gainup:
A blanket statement that your chi(qi/prana) is depleted by the practice of the Bikram method is nonsense. If you feel good, energized, at peace and all the other good things that come with the practice of yoga then your pranic flow is what it is supposed to be.
Bikram's yoga method is based on the solid, respected lineage of Bishnu Ghosh and Paramahamsa Yogananda. The heat is of course his "innovation" and the sequence his creation. Unfortunately it is diffficult to separate the man from the method so some people like to trash the yoga along with the man. Of couse, Bikram hasn't helped himself either by some of his outrageous statements and his criticisms of other yoga styles. Not that he cares, which is what gets his critics even madder.
If Bikram method works for you, care a hoot about what others think.
Cyndi, it's good to know Bikram has an ardent supporter in his copyright enforcement crusade. When Bishnu Ghosh sent a young Bikram to teach and spread the message of yoga, I don't think that his instructions included the need to create a franchising empire. I would think a fleet of Rolls royces and Bentleys would suffice. When Paramahamsa Yogananda came to the US in the early 1900's with the theory and technique of Kriya yoga, his instructions were free.
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Expert Yogi
Posts: 5098
Location: Somewhere in the Mountains of Western NC | HotYogi - 2005-04-12 11:49 AM
Cyndi, it's good to know Bikram has an ardent supporter in his copyright enforcement crusade. When Bishnu Ghosh sent a young Bikram to teach and spread the message of yoga, I don't think that his instructions included the need to create a franchising empire. I would think a fleet of Rolls royces and Bentleys would suffice. When Paramahamsa Yogananda came to the US in the early 1900's with the theory and technique of Kriya yoga, his instructions were free.
Dear Hot Yogi,
How in the heck would you know what Bishnu Ghosh would feel about about Bikram?? Have you ever asked him?? I personally feel that Bishnu Ghosh would be rather pleased that Bikram has influenced soo many American and Other's lives. Perhaps this is Bikram's reward..it is really none of our business. Just because Yogananda had his method and it was free, why do feel Bikram should do the same??? That is my point in my previous statement about how everyone has this idea about what Yoga should be. It is so ridiculous. Besides, it is not that I am an ardent supporter of Bikram per se, it is that I am an ardent supporter of ANYONE and the LAWS concerning operating a Corporation in America. Since I have my own Corporation I understand the value of the legalities, Bikram has that right too! I actually respect his smart business sense. I think if half the people operating a YOGA business had some basic business knowledge, they wouldn't be complaining about being poor and not making any money or a living...that goes for Bikrams and Non-Bikram type yoga studios. | |
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| Cyndi - 2005-04-12 9:15 AM
Because, the teacher that is hated the most is the one who has hit a nerve and a place where MOST people refuse to visit. Enlightenment ain't easy and is sometimes painful when we take a close look at it, its like peeling an onion, layers and layers of BS to get to the core.
Cyndi : I liked what you had to say. What is the nerve that Bikram hits that peope refuse to see? | |
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Expert Yogi
Posts: 5098
Location: Somewhere in the Mountains of Western NC | innerline - 2005-04-12 12:45 PM
Cyndi - 2005-04-12 9:15 AM
Because, the teacher that is hated the most is the one who has hit a nerve and a place where MOST people refuse to visit. Enlightenment ain't easy and is sometimes painful when we take a close look at it, its like peeling an onion, layers and layers of BS to get to the core.
Cyndi : I liked what you had to say. What is the nerve that Bikram hits that peope refuse to see?
The *nerve* that I referred to can be lots of things and every person has a different nerve if you will. The main nerve I am referring to is the EGO Nerve, which is one that we all have to face, sooner or later if we want to be successful. The Ego comes in many forms, if you have a conflict that hasn't been resolved, things like your judgements (about right or wrong doing) and conflicts about past, present or future events..that is your Ego not allowing you live in the present moment. Bikram challenges us in that regard in so many ways. I get challenged just by hanging out with Tibetans and Nepalis people and their different culture. Look at how many people judge Bikram and want to dictate his style of yoga...I think its funny as H&*l that some of the criticizers cannot grasp this concept, but yet, they go around acting like they are so good and spiritual at their yoga practice that they learned from other yoga teachers that were not like Bikram...like there is no difference. This is America and we are treading on new soil where yoga is concerned...and who says you can't practice the way Bikram has taught and who in their right mind can sit and say Bikram is wrong??? Based on what?? The life and teachings in India?? If I wanted that, I would go to India. If I want spirituality, I don't have to go to India, there are plenty of temples and Ashrams here in the USA. Well, we are not in India, we are in America and this is the American life and Bikram is teaching an American audience. Like, Get over it already. | |
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| Cyndi - 2005-04-12 11:00 AM
Look at how many people judge Bikram and want to dictate his style of yoga...I think its funny as H&*l that some of the criticizers cannot grasp this concept, but yet, they go around acting like they are so good and spiritual at their yoga practice that they learned from other yoga teachers that were not like Bikram...like there is no difference. This is America and we are treading on new soil where yoga is concerned...and who says you can't practice the way Bikram has taught and who in their right mind can sit and say Bikram is wrong??? Based on what?? The life and teachings in India?? .
Cyndi: When you say "criticizers cannot grasp this concept" I do not know what concept you mean. I am confused by this whole statement, "that they learned from other yoga teachers that were not like Bikram...like there is no difference". When you say "Based on what??" I can think of alot of things to base a reflection, judgement, or concept on, whether it is the truth is a whole other thing. Are you upset people have the right to make their own judgement. Do you judge ,judging?
Please clarify your statements.
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| Hi GoGirl,
Thanks for your input. She doesn't teach Bikram and I didn't really get into it about why she doesn't like it, except to say the heat depleates your chi. I can't say if she has or hasen't done Bikram, she does teach other types of yoga.
My teacher on the other hand is fabulous. I went on my own, but she has kept me there. She keeps your motivated, helps a lot with the poses (which I love) and really enjoys her students. She has spent a lot of time with me after class working on postures. We have another teacher part time who is also wonderful.
All the perspectives are interesting on this forum and I enjoy reading all of them. I really feel my Chi is doing just fine. | |
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| Interesting logic. Does that mean Pres. Bush is the best US president since he gets bashed all the time? He must be hitting nerves left and right.
Anyhoo, interesting initial comment regarding qi (sorry I'm used to spelling it that way). According to my Oriental Medicine (acupuncture) teachers you can potentially damage your qi by talking about your job or work while eating. Of course you can damage or drain your energy with Bikram yoga. I think if you're doing Bikram regularly you're basically an athlete and you should treat yourself like an athlete. Take extra vitamins, eat well, get to bed at a decent hour and sleep for 7 - 9 hours (that would be nice, huh!). FYI - too much work, sex, booze/pot/OTC drugs can drain your energy. So can worrying too much. I think doing Bikram is the least of anyone's problems. Feel better now? fifi, O.M.D. | |
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Expert Yogi
Posts: 5098
Location: Somewhere in the Mountains of Western NC | innerline - 2005-04-12 2:10 PM
Cyndi: When you say "criticizers cannot grasp this concept" I do not know what concept you mean. I am confused by this whole statement, "that they learned from other yoga teachers that were not like Bikram...like there is no difference". When you say "Based on what??" I can think of alot of things to base a reflection, judgement, or concept on, whether it is the truth is a whole other thing. Are you upset people have the right to make their own judgement. Do you judge ,judging?
Please clarify your statements.
Innerline,
The concept I was referring to was the concept of being different people, different styles, different period and the basic concept that everyone is entitled to be who they are, including Bikram. I feel that most of the people that criticize Bikram are ones that have or had major CONFLICTS and JUDGEMENTS about Bikram and how *they* think a teacher should be, and because they want to dominate and run the show thinking they know better intellectually due to reading or learning someone else's style or whatever..this is the nonsense I'm talking about.
A good example..Just because you learned alignment from Iyengar, doesn't mean Bikram's method is wrong and it doesn't mean alignment is proper for every body. I really don't like it at all when a teacher comes along in class and tries to correct my alignment by pushing me into the asana further or pushing me further than I want to go...I don't think they know my body well enough to make that decision...however, when I am shown how to do the asana's and have read the material, I align myself and if I need help from a teacher, I will ask for it. I don't need an expert Iyengar person to tell me what is wrong with me, I am in touch with my body and if I've gotten this far in my practice, I should know what I need to do to get into the asana properly. and I KNOW how to ask for help when I need it. I use my own intellect and understanding from what I've learned because that is what practicing Yoga is all about...you WILL get to a point where you can figure this out yourself, I am at that point. After reading this forum, I doubt I will ever step foot in an American Yoga Studio ever again...because this is not what I want from my practice and I think the American Yoga teachers OVER analyze everything...too much information. I guess I am more comfortable with a Hindu Guru, because this has never been a problem for me when it comes from an authentic source or I don't mean to offend, but American Yoga teachers really don't understand me. I have this same problem when it comes to dealing with Tibetans regarding Buddhism or Chinese Doctors regarding TCM - I will NEVER let an American touch me with a needle.
As for President Bush...well, I wasn't referring to Presidents or Government Leaders...I was referring to a Yoga Master/Teacher - BIG difference...wouldn't even put it in the same category or on the same level.
Anyway, I really don't want to be sucked into this conversation much longer and this is really about all I have to say on the matter. As far as judging, judging...No, just an observation. Judging in my definition means to judge and then hold it in. I simply make an observation and then let it go. I guess it's hard to tell when it's in writing huh?? Cya later,
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| sorry to hear that, Cyndi...all of the Chinese, Japanese and Korean OMDs/acupuncturists licensed in the US (at least CA and NV) consider themselves to be Americans. | |
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Expert Yogi
Posts: 8442
 
| >>I don't need an expert Iyengar person to tell me what is wrong with me,.........I guess I am more comfortable with a Hindu Guru,<<
Just for the record - BKS Iyengar is a "Hindu guru" and he WOULD adjust your pose, whether you asked him to or not. | |
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Expert Yogi
Posts: 5098
Location: Somewhere in the Mountains of Western NC | tourist - 2005-04-12 11:42 PM
>>I don't need an expert Iyengar person to tell me what is wrong with me,.........I guess I am more comfortable with a Hindu Guru,<<
Just for the record - BKS Iyengar is a "Hindu guru" and he WOULD adjust your pose, whether you asked him to or not.
See, this is exactly what I am talking about with Americans...anything someone says you nitpick everything to DEATH!! You do the same thing with your teachers...I shutter to think what would happen if Mr. Iyengar was caught in the news with something you didn't like or did something you felt was bad..he would be on your *list* too. I give up. For the record, if Mr. Iyengar was to adjust my pose, I would not mind at all, I would be honored. It's the American teachers that I don't want to touch me..period. Especially the ones who think they are physic and know my physical body..are really full of BS!!
Edited by Cyndi 2005-04-13 7:26 AM
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| Cyndi - 2005-04-13 7:26 AM
See, this is exactly what I am talking about with Americans...anything someone says you nitpick everything to DEATH!! You do the same thing with your teachers...
Now this American is going to nitpick. YOU yourself are American, no? Your statement makes a clear delineation of the "us" and the "them" and the differences that you wrote of in an earlier post. I thought yoga was about eliminating some of that. Of course, we're all at different places in our practice, and that may be where you are right now. (And no, I'm not saying that I am 'better" or more advanced - lord knows I have my areas to work on). Just found it interesting that for all the talk about being accepting and one with it all that you would work so hard to set yourself apart.
Oh, and by the way, Tourist is Canadian. Are they nitpickers too? | |
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| HotYogi - 2005-04-12 11:49 AM
Cyndi, it's good to know Bikram has an ardent supporter in his copyright enforcement crusade. When Bishnu Ghosh sent a young Bikram to teach and spread the message of yoga, I don't think that his instructions included the need to create a franchising empire. I would think a fleet of Rolls royces and Bentleys would suffice. When Paramahamsa Yogananda came to the US in the early 1900's with the theory and technique of Kriya yoga, his instructions were free.
I've heard Bikram say that he made a promise to Bishnu Ghosh to teach yoga to as many people in the world as possible. I think it's hardly arguable that Bikram is creating one of the most widely know "brands" of yoga in the world.
As for the "fleet of Rolls royces"... While it's probably true that Bikram makes a lot of money from his studio and teacher training program, many people are unaware that he also owns a luxury car business. I don't know specifics but I believe it's an auto repair shop that specializes in rare and luxury vehicles. Frankly, I take his many public statements about his car fetish in the same light as the "two megaton atomic balls" statements, neither of which offend my sensibilities, and neither of which has anything to do with the yoga he teaches (aside from helping to attract attention for the business of it).
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| Bikram is such a larger than life character that provokes strong opinions that his yoga gets a reputation. I've never done Bikram yoga, but know poeple that have and love it. Personally, I won't touch anything with Bikram's name on it. I read the article in Mother Jones and was exremely turned off by his blatant arrogrance. I put him in the same category as all those flashy TV-evangelists selling religion. He's pretty much the opposite of what I look for in yoga. However, my boyfriend LOVED the article. He'd actually break his "no-yoga" rule for the chance to the take a class with him because he "respected the man's style."
That said, I don't think it matters what style of yoga you do. Only that you found what makes you feel happy doing.
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Expert Yogi
Posts: 8442
| Cyndi - Yoga IS uncomfortable, it is about challenging your perceptions and being flexible in body AND mind. This process continues as long as we draw breath. It does not stop when we feel we have learned "enough" and are at a more enlightened place in our lives. There are a few things we can figure out fully and stay with for the rest of our lives but they unfortunately seem to moslty be in the realm of making a perfect cup of tea or getting enough discipline to practic regularly or get our taxes done on time EVERY year. The rest of life is too messy and too unpredicatble for that. Once you get into the realm of ideas and attitudes, getting stuck in one mindset and refusing to consider alternatives, even for a moment to consider another's point of view, you are closing yourself off to growth.
And by the way, I am not the kind of person who would purposely provoke and irritate someone just to get a reaction for my own entertainment. I've seen that done and I find it is cruel and immature. OTOH, sometimes it is just so d@mn EASY it is irresistable!  | |
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| Cyndi:
Your post reminds me of the Donna Chang episode of Seinfeld where George's mom is really psyched and pumped up because she is getting sage advice from a Confuscious spouting Donna Chang as she believes she is Chinese. She even talks George's mom from leaving his dad. When she meets her finally and finds out she is all blonde and WASPy, she says "You're not Chinese, now this changes everything" and the divorce is back on.
If everything else being the same but if Bikram were American, would you still follow his method. Incidentally. some of the most innovative and self aware yoga teachers are right here in the US who have spent years training in India but are not caught up in the gender/caste politics of India. | |
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| Cyndi: What ever you resist persists. Step in dodie, dodie sticks to you. Resist BS and BS sticks to you. | |
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| HotYogi,
I liked your Seinfeld analogy, I actually define my life by Seinfeld episodes. Is that a bad thing? | |
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| Gracie:
Look deep into the Seinfeld Show and ye shall find the meaning of life.
I agree with you, there's probably a hilarious episode corresponding to a a lot of routine real-life situations.
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| gainup - 2005-04-12 3:07 PM
Hi GoGirl,
Thanks for your input. She doesn't teach Bikram and I didn't really get into it about why she doesn't like it, except to say the heat depleates your chi. I can't say if she has or hasen't done Bikram, she does teach other types of yoga.
My teacher on the other hand is fabulous. I went on my own, but she has kept me there. She keeps your motivated, helps a lot with the poses (which I love) and really enjoys her students. She has spent a lot of time with me after class working on postures. We have another teacher part time who is also wonderful.
All the perspectives are interesting on this forum and I enjoy reading all of them. I really feel my Chi is doing just fine.
I'm really glad you have the experience of having excellent Bikram teachers. After reading Bikram's beginning yoga book I'm convinced that he absolutely loves to knock people out of complacency. He actually relishes being controversal. He should be taken a little less seriously.
It apparently is the nature of the Bikram beast. I went to an Anusara workshop this weekend, did we debate about Anusara yoga vs Iyengar or Ashtanga? No. Any debate was about Bikram. Sometimes about the man, but since this group is so positive about yoga. it was more about the limited number of poses and working out in that blasted heat. 
Edited by MrD 2005-04-13 8:02 PM
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Extreme Veteran
Posts: 338
| Cindy,
Are you American. I have noticed a decidedly unamerican bias in your postings. Without much provocation you will go on a rant defending bikram, the man. I really don't give a #### about Bikram the man.
However, my yoga practice is VERY important to me. I need all the help I can get. I like Bikram
classes and generally I have found the instructors to be caring people who try and help me to deepen my practice. I wonder if more knowledge of mechanics(body) would be helpful to some instructors. I don't know if Iyenger teachers have more knowledge, but it has been mentioned on this board that other yoga strles focus on alignment. This matters when you have a special
condition or when you develop an injury. I am glad you are so intuitive regarding your body. Most of us are not, we go to class to have someone who knows MORE help us. Also, its hard to see yourself in yoga poses ( even with a mirror). When someone makes a criticism of Bikram
I feel like there is probably a grain of truth in it. I think, for example, that somones chi is probably fine after Bikram, but I have been wasted and almost sick after a "too hot" class.
Hydration is important and sometimes, leaving hte class is important.
Unfortunately just because its Bikram doesn't mean its good.... or bad.
anyway.... that's my two cents. | |
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Expert Yogi
Posts: 5098
Location: Somewhere in the Mountains of Western NC | Gogirl,
Yes, I am American. I also have an Indian husband and I understand this culture because of that. (Bikram is my husband's brother - they are Chetria and they take that very seriously, as do I) That is not saying I am an expert, I am saying it because ever since I started reading this Bikram forum, all I've seen is a bunch of piss, moaning and complaining about Bikram. I enjoy my Bikram practice, I enjoy Bikram and I enjoyed reading his book and learning everything I could about the sequence and the instructions on how to do it. I do not care about his personal life, and whatever he does to teach is his business. He sure helped me through the practice when I didn't get some of things I needed from my original teacher - by doing his audio tape and his book, it was chock full of information for me to do it successfully.
My problem is that I would love to see all the negativity vanish..period! Just because I come back with my what would seem to you as Anti-American, is simply my observation of the ignorance that crosses this board where Bikram is concerned. It is also that I do get tired of the American mind set sometimes, but I can assure you that my parents and their grandparents were not like this new American trend of aggressiveness, No, I do not like it and I admit that! I'm sorry you take offense, but look at how you judge people and make fun and how arrogant you all are sometimes?? Not to mention that half of the gossip and talk about Bikram really should not be here at all. If you all were really concerned and compassionate about helping others, you would not be participating in this Bikram Bashing thread and adding to the Negativity. It is not good for any Yoga practice..even the ones bashing. You may not reap the karmas now of your actions, but you will one day. Actually, the only reason I waste my time on this thread at all is because I merely was pointing out the BS and how I saw it. I too like to learn more about my practice, unfortunately for the 3 mos. I've been here, I've learned more from 1 person, that is Neel and he doesn't even hardly hang out in the Bikram section. What is wrong with that picture??? Of course, no one agrees with me, I can appreciate that...I've been dealing with this all my life in America..and that is why I can sympathize with Bikram and why I love the Indian Hindu culture, because whether you like it or not, most things are generally accepted and what may be for one person, may not be for another and that is the true beauty of it all is being accepted and freedom to do so. I do not see that here in America and I certainly do not see it on this Bikram forum. It also means that you do NOT loose sight of showing respect (which is another thing that is NOT being done here on this forum) and traditionally, you should have the utmost respect for your Guru and Bikram is a Yoga Guru...because you are doing the practice and teachings that came from him and his Guru - and it doesn't matter which guru, it is still the Yoga teachings and all guru's should be respected. As far as the dislikes you have for his behaviors or whatever, that is still NO excuse for being mean and ugly!! Like I said previously, Hot Yogi, Miss Dee and Tourist and others, the way you guys have demonstrated yourselves, I would never step foot in your studios because I do not want to deal with your Negative energy and the energy you harbor towards Bikram and anyone who happens to like him, or benefit from his teachings. I'm sorry you have a problem with him. Just because of the reasons you say you teach Bikram and as far as recovering your money loss is no excuse and is only degrading to the Yoga teachings. I do not accept this.
I too learned some things from a Bikram trained instructor..I learned alot. I happen to know she also has her issues surrounding Bikram, and that is why I learned what I could and got the H*&; out of there so I could never hear it and so I would not loose respect for her as my teacher when I did hear it - I practice at home. So, having that said, I wish you the best of luck in learning how to do the asana's properly, safely and find a sense of enjoyment for the practice as it really is a great set of asana's to do for your body. As far as the Qi statement, the only thing that drains my Qi, is reading this forum sometimes and dealing with hateful and over cynical people.
So, to the original poster, are you regretting that you opened this can of bees???
I am going to close for the evening...and all I have to say is Om Shanti, Shanti, Shanti | |
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I find it quite offensive for a teacher to stand in front of a room full of students and discuss his sex life, his genitals, and brag about his wealth. (it's not about having money and cars- it your attitude about them.)
indeed B's Balls and Big Pimping has nothing to do with The Yoga. and I fail to see how this sort of attention is beneficial to The Yoga. (yes, yes I know sex and scandal sells...it doesn't make it a good idea to use them to 'sell' yoga)
B owns a business that repairs cars. That's common knowledge. The vintage picture of him pulling a truck with his teeth (or maybe just pulling the rope over his shoulder) is at the studio as well as in his home. It's all part of his history- like being a "carnival-type" performer. You know, beds of nails... a truck driving over his chest. The last few nights of TT are all night marathon of B delightfully showing home movie after home movie of these 'tricks'. Swallowing and "unswallowing" goldfish-- Between endless reel of tape- exaggerated stories of great wonder are told. I remember fighting sleep- then finally just leaving. This was the REAL torture chamber. 
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| Cyndi wrote...
Of course, no one agrees with me
Actually, your voice was one that helped me decide to come back online here. I find value in much of what you post.
and then...
and all I have to say is Om Shanti, Shanti, Shanti
Which I find completely amusing due to my recollection of Emmie (one of Bikram's senior teachers) saying something like, "This aint your Om Shakti Shanti Yoga - this is Bikram Yoga!"
I gotta love it.
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| miss dee - 2005-04-13 11:00 PM
The vintage picture of him pulling a truck with his teeth (or maybe just pulling the rope over his shoulder) is at the studio as well as in his home. It's all part of his history- like being a "carnival-type" performer. You know, beds of nails... a truck driving over his chest.
Reminds me of the old Ripley's Believe it or Not glimpses into the bizarre world of gurus and shamans from when I was a child. I do believe the bed of nails actually came from a yogi culture rather than a carnival one.
For what it's worth...
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| GoGirl Said:
but I have been wasted and almost sick after a "too hot" class.
Hydration is important and sometimes, leaving hte class is important.
:::end quoted material::::
I agree. bikram yoga (the heat) can drain you too much if the mix is wrong.
Some bad mixes with heat include: too much food too close to class, too little food too long before class, too much water, not enough water, alcohol use the night before, stress, unfulfilling sleep experiences, hormones, emotions, blah, blah blah. I have found you never know.
you prepare as much as you can- you go in the room see how it goes and listen to your body.
Absolutely, the best thing to do sometimes is to leave the class. I'll admit to occasionally slipping out into the hall while teaching for a breath or two when the students are "busy" during water breaks or in savasana. It saved the class more than once I assure you. I agree with jackiecat- as a full-time Bikram/Hot Yoga teacher and a bikram/hot yogi- sometimes the heat can be too much. Ice water in class helps alot. So does milk after class.
Looking forward to 6AM hot yoga!
dee
Edited by miss dee 2005-04-13 11:36 PM
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| ebenjen - 2005-04-13 10:25 PM
miss dee - 2005-04-13 11:00 PM
The vintage picture of him pulling a truck with his teeth (or maybe just pulling the rope over his shoulder) is at the studio as well as in his home. It's all part of his history- like being a "carnival-type" performer. You know, beds of nails... a truck driving over his chest.
Reminds me of the old Ripley's Believe it or Not glimpses into the bizarre world of gurus and shamans from when I was a child. I do believe the bed of nails actually came from a yogi culture rather than a carnival one.
For what it's worth...
my carnival reference was just for descriptive purposes. I dont know the origin of that trick.
true though, one man's siddhi is another man's side-show.
Dee | |
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one man's siddhi is another man's side-show
That's what I wish I had said! Thanks. | |
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Extreme Veteran
Posts: 418
Location: New York | Cyndi - 2005-04-13 10:49 PM
No, I do not like it and I admit that! I'm sorry you take offense, but look at how you judge people and make fun and how arrogant you all are sometimes??
If you don't like judging people, making fun and arrogance then you certainly won't like being in the presence of The Guru.
It's interesting that the person who feels this thread is harmful and negative is the one contributing the longest post.
And for God's sake, it's "lose", not "loose". You lose sight, you don't "loose" it! | |
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| So why contribute to any negativity? Why share your obviously negative attitude about Americans?
I happen to find a lot of what we call American culture funny as well. We are definitely a culture where bigger=better (real or imagined), and making ourselves busy (or appear to be) makes us seem important and therefore good. When you compare this country to many others, we are extremely young, and a youngish country, like a young person, goes through trial and error to find an identity that works for them. Throughout my life I've had several international friends who have embraced the American life while they were here and appreciated it for what it was. The enjoyed the warmth with which they were welcomed, compared to their own cultures and I've never once heard any one of them (even the Frenchies) refer to "you all Americans" as you did in your post, Cyndi. Despite your claims of positivity and non-judgementalism, your words belie your true sentiments. If nothing else, it seems that the rest of the posters on this board and this thread, have been expressing their own opinions about Bikram the man without hiding behind a guise of sunshine and light. And this begs the question, if we were to be discussing George Bush (again), would your reaction be the same? Would you accuse others of negativity for pointing out his flaws -and we've all got 'em - or find fault with those who disagree with his methods of protecting the country. I think that protecting the country is a worthwhile endeavor, as is teaching yoga. But it is possible to disagree with the man OR the method, without it being an issue of disrespect. Then again, this must be my simple-minded American view.
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Extreme Veteran
Posts: 338
| It is also that I do get tired of the American mind set sometimes, but I can assure you that my parents and their grandparents were not like this new American trend of aggressiveness, No, I do not like it and I admit that! I'm sorry you take offense, but look at how you judge people and make fun and how arrogant you all are sometimes??
Cyndi, Here is where you pi##ed me off. We are not all the same. That message is the basis
of combating racism. We ( Americans) are all different. | |
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Expert Yogi
Posts: 8442
| >>Hot Yogi, Miss Dee and Tourist and others, the way you guys have demonstrated yourselves, I would never step foot in your studios because I do not want to deal with your Negative energy and the energy you harbor towards Bikram<<
Cyndi - I need you to know that if you are making broad statements like this that you need to be careful about who you name. I have NEVER said anything negative about Bikram. I have made comments that I personally would not like the heat and that I don't recommend the practice for everyone. Yes, I have commented that some people might benefit from learning more about alignment to prevent or heal injuries (when asked). I admit to poking you with a little stick from time to time in order to irritate you and provide some amusement for myself but generally that is meant to be funny and not to make you think I am a negative person. I think if you were to step foot in my classroom you would find that I am very positive and encouraging. Too bad we can't find out.
PS - I am not American, either.
Edited by tourist 2005-04-14 10:47 AM
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Expert Yogi
Posts: 5098
Location: Somewhere in the Mountains of Western NC | This is where I get off the boat. I'm not going to stick around here and argue with you guys. Bash me too all you want, I don't care. Guess what?? I have nothing to lose or gain here. I certainly do not have any attachments to Bikram or this forum. I can turn this computer off at any time and I can ignore this. If you guys have a problem with me being anti-American, I really don't care, but the truth of the matter is, I have a problem with the entire human race and the direction that human lives are being directed to due to technology, screwed up minds that are leading our countries and pure greed. This is a national problem. If you are intimidated by my comments, perhaps it is something that is unresolved in your own mind...NOT mine. I'm sorry I hit a nerve. But, the real issue here on this forum is to share and exchange information about the Yoga Practice (I thought), and the real issue for all of us on a global level is that all human beings are striving for HAPPINESS, that is what we ALL really want. Happiness does not come when Negativity is present and that was my entire point!! I am not a racist, Eric Rudolph is a racist and he hid in my area for 6 years. I just found out he had dynamite planted on some of the areas that I hike in the National Forest. So, don't tell me I'm that, I am not. As for us being the same, NO, we are not the same as far as our levels of understanding and knowledge, but we are the same as far as being human, and we are not different in that respect. We all need the same things in order to survive and live in peace and harmony on this planet - the only way to start to achieve that is to combat Negativity and promote a positive environment so everyone can feel welcomed and nutured.
BTW, in Italy, they are terrified of Americans because they think we are really aggressive. My in-laws are afraid of my culture...do you know how embarrassing that is to me?? That is not what I want for my country, it is certainly not what the Native Americans wanted either when they gave up this land to the white man! or should I say when it was stolen from them??? | |
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Expert Yogi
Posts: 5098
Location: Somewhere in the Mountains of Western NC | tourist - 2005-04-14 10:42 AM
>>Hot Yogi, Miss Dee and Tourist and others, the way you guys have demonstrated yourselves, I would never step foot in your studios because I do not want to deal with your Negative energy and the energy you harbor towards Bikram<<
Cyndi - I need you to know that if you are making broad statements like this that you need to be careful about who you name. I have NEVER said anything negative about Bikram. I have made comments that I personally would not like the heat and that I don't recommend the practice for everyone. Yes, I have commented that some people might benefit from learning more about alignment to prevent or heal injuries (when asked). I admit to poking you with a little stick from time to time in order to irritate you and provide some amusement for myself but generally that is meant to be funny and not to make you think I am a negative person. I think if you were to step foot in my classroom you would find that I am very positive and encouraging. Too bad we can't find out.
PS - I am not American, either.
Actually, Tourist you are American, because Canada is North America and used to be considered one. Anyway, I'll respect your wishes not to be included as an American, I can certainly relate to that!! As to my comments about you stating something negative about Bikram - I never said you did. However, because of your previous comments towards me and your "kidding" around as you call it to irritate me, that is why I feel the way I do. If I were practicing Yoga in your studio, do you think for one minute I would want someone to irritate me??? NO way Sister!! Anyway, I have no hard feelings toward you, I like to read your posts - that is as far as goes for now. If I'm ever in your area in Canada, I might stop by and ask you if you would like to join me for a cup of chai though! The question for me is...would you be welcomed if I did or would you throw a cup of chai at me?? | |
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| Sure, some Italians may be afraid of us because they think we're aggressive. It is safe to say that many Europeans in general have some issues with the way this country is being run. Then again, we're also a bit flabbergasted about the amount of vacation time they have and things that are part of their culture. But, the majority of Europeans that I have met have been open and interested in meeting individual Americans and finding out for themselves that we are not all the "stereotypical american". You know what? The French people I've met have been extremely friendly and warm, the Italians I've met are kind and generous, the Japanese exchange students I've hosted and befriended have been curious and open, and I could go on. So I find it rather interesting that it is another American who is embarassed by our culture and interested in making such a distinct seperation between herself and the rest of them. Most of the international people I've met, as well the Americans that I consider to be my friends understand and act on the supposition that we ARE all the same - we are all humans with wants and needs and varying backgrounds. So to lump all Americans together as lesser people is really rather insulting. Now, having lived in the South, I can certainly understand that some of this comes from being in that environment - there is a lot of narrow-minded rhetoric in taht region of the country and it can be frustrating - but there are quite a few people down there, and throughout the country who are NOT this American cariacature that you seem to have in mind. | |
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Expert Yogi
Posts: 5098
Location: Somewhere in the Mountains of Western NC | Excuse me Lora, I did not LUMP anyone together and living in the South has NOTHING to do with anything!! I did lump us all together as human beings were concerned for our survival and our human responsibility. It is not my fault that the *others* being lumped into this category, are aggressive and actually they are the ones that are anti-American. I didn't seperate anyone...THEY DID. My roots as an American are very deep. I have family all over the place. My parents were very instrumental in structuring America what it is today, the positive aspects. Yes, I do have a problem with humans that are dismantling that structure & foundation...they are destroying everything that was put in place. Now it is happening on a global level too. I'm not going into specific details about this because I don't have time for this and I really don't think you have an open mind to sit and have a nice conversation about it. Therefore, I will leave this alone for now. But don't preach to me about stereotypes and the American Cariacature, you don't know me as a person and what I know through my experience. Especially from never having met me in person. Have a good day. | |
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| Yawn, how boring is this discussion? Honestly lets move on and talk about something else. We're just going in circles and this has all been discussed before. | |
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| Yeah Gracie, I agree it's time to move on from this thread. It was fun guys.
I think some one's a few tea bags short of a full pot of chai  | |
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Expert Yogi
Posts: 5098
Location: Somewhere in the Mountains of Western NC | Funny you should say that about the Chai....If I remember correctly, in Japan, the tradition was after a long heated debate or had a war between an enemy, you sat down with the group or the enemy and had a cup of Chai. Soo, I can't wait till the day that we ALL sit down after a 90 minute long Bikram class together and have a cup of chai!!! We'll all be too pooped to throw it at each other and very thirsty indeed enough to drink it...better have several pots ready | |
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| But not TOO much chai, as we might all keel over and die from over-hydration!
Of course, I would already be dead after 10 minutes of yoga in the hot room. I salute those who can do it; it is not my cup of beer! | |
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| Yeah, I might have to vote for a Guiness or cider after that....  | |
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| Ohhh Lora have you had a snakebite (think that's what it's called???), which is guiness and cider? We had those all over Ireland, and let me tell you, they are sooooooo good. | |
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| OOOH! I love Snakebites (of this kind, certainly not the kind on the kindness to animals thread!)! It's like the new(ish) honey barbecue fritos - first you get the barbecue part (or the cider part) and THEN you get the frito part (or the guiness part). You don't EVER have to choose!
I like to keep my fridge happy by storing a nice dark brew and a funky cider...Right now I'm working on Newcastle and Woodchuck Raspberry Cider. Yummy! One a night seems to be doing quite a wonderful job of getting me through this last week of the semester. AutoCAD is MUCH more tolerable with a Newcastle. | |
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| I consider the Bikram style one of the best. The series of 26 poses is awesome and works the entire body. In addition, I'm not sore in my hamstrings and lower back after a bikram session. | |
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New User
Posts: 1
| Here's my 2 cents:
I went to my first Bikram class yesterday. I've been practicing at Moksha studios here in Canada for about a year now. I've heard the Moksha series was very similar to Bikram and even though I love my home studio I figured I should give Bikram a shot so I know about it from personal experience.
Overall, I didn't NOT enjoy the class: the series was challenging, I experienced some new poses, the studio was nice, and it was a good workout.
Overall however, I don't think it even compares to my home studio. For one, Bikram studios basically only offers one class (I know there's the advanced 2.5hr classes too but they don't take place very often and it's a lot of time to commit on a regular basis). I love the variety of going to Moksha classes (which are always slightly different from each-other), Ashtanga, Vinyasa, and especially Yin classes. Experiencing new poses/challenges/experiences is one of the most rewarding parts of my practice. I can't imagine going through the same series of poses every day. Yoga has so much to offer, why limit it to 26 poses??? And then there's the teaching style: frankly I don't want someone barking at me and telling me to "force" and "push" while I'm practicing (that's what I do Crossfit for). I want someone to instruct, guide, and mentor me through through a physically challenging AND meditative Yoga practice.
I will go back to go back to Bikram to experience the series a few more times, taught by a few different instructors to give it a fair chance. I think it could potentially become part of my diverse practice, but I doubt I'd ever decide to do Bikram on a daily basis.
Edited by AS1 2010-12-27 3:10 PM
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Bikram thrashing