I’ll never forget the moment I heard Emmy Cleaves speak during one of Bikram’s workshops. Emmy, a legend in the Bikram yoga world, was asked a simple but profound question: “What is your secret to Bikram Yoga? After decades of teaching and practicing, what do you think makes this practice so special?”
She paused, and then, with the wisdom of someone who had spent a lifetime devoted to yoga, she answered:“Frequency, precision, and intensity. These three things will unlock the treasures of Bikram Yoga.”
Her words stayed with me, resonating deeply as I reflected on my own yoga journey. At first, I didn’t fully grasp the weight of what she meant. But as I practiced more and taught others, I began to understand the truth behind these three pillars.
Let me break them down for you—because if you can embody these principles, they will transform not only your yoga practice but your life.
1. Frequency: The Magic of Showing Up
Emmy explained that frequency means “how often you show up on your mat.” Bikram Yoga isn’t something you dabble in; it’s a practice you commit to. The more consistently you show up, the more your body opens, your mind clears, and your energy aligns.
When I first started practicing, I went every day. Honestly, some days were harder than others. There were mornings I didn’t want to face the heat, the mirror, or my limitations. But I showed up anyway. And that’s when I began to see the magic.
Frequency isn’t just about building a habit—it’s about creating a relationship with yourself. Each time you step onto the mat, you deepen that connection. Over time, the practice becomes a part of you, and you realize that the more you show up, the more it gives back.
2. Precision: The Beauty of Alignment
Emmy described precision as “doing the poses correctly, paying attention to the alignment and details.” In Bikram Yoga, every posture has a purpose. The alignment of your body determines the flow of energy, the stretch of your muscles, and the stability of your mind.
I remember one class when my teacher corrected my Triangle Pose. At first, I was frustrated—I thought I was doing it right! But when I adjusted, I felt an incredible stretch I’d never experienced before. My body felt alive, like every muscle was working in harmony.
Precision is about being mindful of the details. It’s not about achieving the perfect pose for Instagram; it’s about feeling the pose from the inside out. Emmy often said, “Yoga is about sensation, not aesthetics.” And she was right. When you approach your practice with precision, every posture becomes a tool for self-discovery.
3. Intensity: The Power of Your Effort
Finally, Emmy spoke about intensity, saying it’s “the energy and effort you bring to your practice.” Intensity doesn’t mean pushing to the point of pain; it means being fully present and giving your best effort, whatever that looks like on a given day.
I’ll never forget a class where I felt completely drained before stepping into the hot room. I thought, “There’s no way I can give 100% today.” But Emmy’s words echoed in my mind: “Your best effort changes from day to day, and that’s okay. Just be present.”
So I did. I gave everything I had in that moment, even if it didn’t look as strong or steady as usual. By the end of the class, I felt empowered—not because I had the “perfect” practice, but because I gave it my all. Intensity is about being committed to the present moment, no matter how you feel.
Why These Three Pillars Matter
Bikram Yoga isn’t just about sweating in a 105°F room for 90 minutes. It’s a practice that teaches discipline, focus, and resilience. Frequency builds consistency. Precision creates mindfulness. Intensity fosters growth.
When you combine these three elements, the treasures of Bikram Yoga begin to reveal themselves. You’ll feel stronger, calmer, and more connected—not just on your mat, but in every aspect of your life.
Frequency is the key to consistency. Think of it like watering a plant—you can’t water it once and expect it to thrive. Precision is where mindfulness comes alive; when you fine-tune your alignment, you feel the pose rather than just doing it. Intensity is your secret weapon—it’s about giving your all, even when it feels like you can’t. Together, these three unlock your potential on and off the mat.
Looking back, I see how Emmy’s wisdom has shaped my journey as both a student and a teacher. There’s a reason Bikram Yoga has changed so many lives, and it’s not just the heat or the sequence of poses. It’s the mindset you cultivate when you practice with frequency, precision, and intensity.
So the next time you step into the hot room, ask yourself:
Am I showing up consistently?
Am I paying attention to the details?
Am I giving my best effort today?
Because if you do, you’ll discover that Emmy was right. The treasures of Bikram Yoga aren’t hidden—they’re waiting for you to unlock them
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