What to do before class starts…

What to do before class starts…2013-01-02T08:01:48+00:00
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  • sonidochi
    Participant
    Post count: 7

    I searched and wasn’t able to find this topic previously posted. So, here goes.

    I am a Bikram student. To help myself become acclimated to the hot room, I like to arrive and be on my mat at least 15 minutes before the actual class start time. Sometimes a little longer (if it’s cold outside, maybe 20-25 minutes). My question is what are some things that are a good idea to do during those 15-20 minutes before class begins?

    Other than simple breathing, of course,:-) is it OK to try and loosen up some muscles before pranayama breathing begins? After 5 minutes or so of being in the room, would it be OK to get into pigeon pose to help open up the hip joints? Or is that too dangerous to do before a class? How long does it take for a body to warm up in such a hot room?

    I guess I just like to use my time wisely, especially while in the hot room. I don’t want to do anything that might cause or exacerbate an injury (I have severe osteoarthritis in my right hip). If there is anything that I can do before class begins to enhance my practice, I’d love to know. Usually, after the final savasana, I don’t necessarily want to stay in the room TOO much longer, as the shower seems to call my name. 😀

    Thanks in advance for any suggestions!

    Namaste

    Gabrielle (The Hot Yoga Doctor)
    Forum Owner
    Post count: 3048

    Hi Sonia

    I would do one of 2 things:

    1) do some long held pigeons or other long held poses where the emphasis is release, breath, focus and awareness. 2-3 minutes each side.

    or

    2) simply lie down and breathe. Nothing else. Just breathe.

    Actually one of the things I love, Love, LOVE to do is to go in beforehand, lie on my belly, possibly with head on my folded arms. close my eyes and just breathe. Often I will fall asleep. After a day of distraction either mindful observation of breath or sleeping will refresh me and get me focused and ready for class!

    Namaste
    Gabrielle 🙂

    Springtime
    Participant
    Post count: 44

    I also start lying down. Breathing, centering, getting used to the hot room once again.

    Blondiesorganic
    Participant
    Post count: 21

    I like to come in half hour early, get save my favorite spot : ) put my stuff away.

    I then like to come in and just listen to my body. Usually start by lying down or sitting cross legged and focus inward to listen to my body. it usually feels like some gentle stretching and other yoga poses that are not bikrim that help me stretch out my hips and buttocks.I also like to wiggle my feet and toes to prepare them for all the standing poses. I like to massage them too. Those feet take a beating as I work on them and I like to give them some love and attention.

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