Like most things i do, i came highly unprepared for my first bikram class. Without researching anything, or even asking the receptionist what it was about, i signed myself up and there i was. I did know one thing though, it would be hot. And boy, was it boiling.

The room was filled with mirrors on every wall. Which i came to learn is a very important part in bikram as you are meant to concentrate on yourself. Never have i pushed my body to such lengths. 10 minutes into the class i glanced around trying to find someone to walk out with (You never want to be the first person to give up). But everyone stayed. Glancing around it looked like everyone had the same thought, what the fuck have i gotten myself into?

The 90 minutes of pushing your body past its normal ability is simply amazing. I slept like a new-born baby that night, obviously i woke up feeling like i had run round the world and back. My trainer kept saying ‘whats better, 90 minutes of suffering or 90 years’. The whole concept of bikram yoga is to learn how to take care of your body. It has injury-healing, emotion-strengthening, toxin-flushing, weight-managing, and career-extending effects. (which all seems highly questionable if you have never taken the class).

Since i started taking the class i feel very ‘sober’. Not that I’m an alcoholic, but my brain feels less fuzzy and everything seems more clear. After my first class i never thought the day would come whereby I’d be excited to go again, but here i am writing this before i dash off for todays 7pm class. After pushing your body to such extremes you feel almost confident that you can handle more than you bargained for. That nothings ever really, that hard. Bikram teaches you to breathe, to handle your temperament, to you know, keep your cool. I find my classes therapeutic.

For any of you reading this, i advice you to give it a go. Just once,. And even then I’m sure it will be beneficial for you.

Adios Amigo