Controversy has surrounded Bikram Choudhury’s copyright and franchising of Bikram yoga. There is no Bikram Yoga in India.

Bikram Yoga works toward wellness, restoration and rejuvenation. The heated studio facilitates deeper stretching, prevents injury, and relieves stress and tension. Bikram Yoga was designed to systematically stimulate and restore health to every muscle, joint and organ of the body. Participants are guided through a series of 26 postures during which the heart, lungs, circulation, muscles, brain activity and mental capacity are all affected. There are two descriptions of the 26 exercises and they are asanas (postures) and pranayama (breathing exercises). Both of these rely on each other to deliver positive results. According to Bikram, many people only use up to 50 percent of their lung capacity, and just like any muscle, the lungs must be stretched in order to (through practice) withstand holding more oxygen. When one is practicing the pranayama he will eventually be able to enhance oxygen conversion and absorption, as well as improve blood circulation.

The postures are done in the safe environment of a heated room so that deep penetration can relieve muscle resistance without risking injury. Each posture in the copyrighted sequence of postures is done in specific order, preparing the body for the next posture, resulting in powerful healing and miraculous results.

 By the end of a Bikram Yoga class, you will have worked every muscle, tendon, joint, ligament, internal organ, and gland while systematically moving fresh, oxygenated blood to 100% of the body. These postures work synergistically and cumulatively to put the body back on track and in balance. Bikram Yoga builds strength, balance and flexibility by gently stretching and massaging the spine, muscles, tendons, joints, and all internal organs of the body. Lung capacity is expanded, leading to greater vitality. Bones are strengthened. Joints are opened and lubricated. Muscles are strengthened, toned, and made more flexible. Regular practice of this series of postures results in the healing and repair of injuries and illnesses, weight loss, and peace of mind.