Bikram Yoga Decatur

Talk to your doctor!

However, it is my understanding that heat is contraindicated for people with MS. This is one of the few conditions for which I suggest people seek another style of yoga.

This is nothing to be alarmed about. The ammonia smell could be a sign of kidney failure if it occurred in your sweat and breath all the time but if it's only associated with vigorous exercise it's almost certainly diet related. It's common among marathon runners and usually comes from having a low carb/high protein diet. You may want to include more complex carbohydrates in your diet.

If you have serious concerns about this or any other health issue you should always seek advice from a doctor or other health care professional. Our preparation as Yoga instructors does not include medical training.

Yes, it's possible that Bikram Yoga can cause heat rash, usually in people who are new to the practice. It's not common but I know of a few instances.

First I must emphasize that I am NOT a doctor nor am I qualified to give medical advice. What follows is from my experience as a yoga instructor and is only my personal opinion.

Heat rash is caused by blockages in the sweat glands. The exact cause is unknown but high heat and humidity can be contributing factors as can any activity which results in intense, heavy perspiration. It usually occurs in parts of the body that are covered by clothing.

Some contributing factors to look for are: clothing that doesn't allow your skin to breathe (cotton is not good in class -- it's best to wear workout clothes that allow wicking), bacteria and heavy or greasy skin creams. There are also medications that have been linked to heat rash.

Heat rash should go away on it's own in a few days -- providing you avoid high heat and humidity -- so it's a good idea to take a break from your practice to see if the rash will clear up on it's own. If it persists much longer than that or if it gets severe (swelling, pus, fever, or swollen lymph nodes) then you should see a doctor.

One student, who also happens to be an MD, told me that he found a vigorous scrubbing of the area with a a dry brush to be helpful in speeding up the healing process.

Yes, but...

It's fine for you to practice with a cold and you will probably feel better after class. The practice can help reduce symptoms and boost your immune system.

On the other hand, you have to think about your fellow practitioners. Colds and other viruses can spread easily so it may be a good idea to stay home during the first couple of days and/or when your symptoms are at their worst.

If you do come to the studio with a cold make sure to wash your hands frequently and cover your mouth when sneezing (it's best to sneeze into the crook of your elbow if you don't have a hanky). Cold viruses can be transmitted by air but they are more often transmitted through the hands.

Yes, but get permission from your doctor first.

Absolutely.

Probably, but always check with your doctor. We have many students with spine conditions such as scoliosis, herniated disks, fused disks, degenerated disks and more.

Absolutley. Anybody can do yoga.