In praise of Bikram Yoga

Finally, back to Bikram Yoga Nice after a three-week absence spent in the Scottish Borders where, during a week of a birthday celebrations and hanging on tight to my vegan (if not teetotal) wagon, I taught some basic hatha yoga to a small group of friends; and in London, where I caught up with my own teachers and their Vinyasa lessons.

As ever during yoga practice, my initial enthusiasm gave way to worry about whether I'd be able to get through the class, followed by alternate rushes of energy and apathy, enjoyment and annoyance (at not being able to complete the asanas).

It's always best to concentrate on a single point, or dristi, to help maintain focus and counter the mind's wanderings, but as an accomplished daydreamer, I usually spend a good amount of time listening to my inner distractions.

So, here are today's - ten reasons why Bikram Yoga is like sex.

1. Most obviously, it makes you sweat - profusely, if you're putting enough effort into it
2. It's very, very good for you
3. If you have a good teacher, you'll notice immediate improvements in your technique
4. During practice, your temperature and heart-rate soar and swoop, soar and swoop
5. Although it can be fun to do outdoors occasionally, a clean, fresh, familiar space is always best
6. Showering before and afterwards is advised, especially if you're in the company of strangers
7. Do it often enough and you'll experience countless physical benefits, from increased flexibility through weight-loss and an improved basal metabolism
8. Do it often enough and you'll find that your baseline mood is raised - ie, you're happier
9. Go without, and those around you will notice. They're unlikely to say "what s/he needs is a good Bikram class" - they'll recommend something else that, depending on your karma, may, or may not be easier to get hold of
10. Whatever you may have heard from your parents, your friends, your priest or daytime television, you’re never too old, never too bad, never too late and never too sick to start from scratch once again

Next class, tomorrow (Saturday) at 10am CET.