In many ways I am a glutton. Now I can add glutton for punishment to my already long list of addictions. I went in today for my first session. Being a new practitioner of yoga, this feels ten times more difficult.
Carolyn M. and I got there 30 minutes early and was talking to the staff up front about what to expect. Bikram is practiced in a 105 degree room for 90 minutes and moves through 26 poses. At first it was challenging, but by pose 12 an intense sense of nausea was rising. Take a knee, remain in the room, and keep breathing is the suggestion. Do not rush out of the room if possible. I did the exact opposite. I felt like I was suffocating. A great endorsement for Bikram right? As I was out there, Ashlyn called someone over to sit with me. I didn't catch her name, but she was very positive. Told me many regulars have the same reaction from time to time.
I made my way back in to start the floor poses. At this point, I was unstoppable. Mind over matter and all that jazz. 90 minutes is excruciating long in some of these poses, but Ashlyn was encouraging and told us to listen to our bodies. I am excited to go back and see the progression in my practice.
The best part is the shower that awaits you after class. The locker room is pristine. Bring an extra towel if planning on using their facilities.