about

-- a man cannot be comfortable without his own approval --
mark twain

So maybe you are stiff and sore and over the age of 23 and don't like the heat. And can't fathom standing around in a hot room. There are so many benefits that it is challenging to boil things down to some bullet points. However, since most of us rip open the box, throw the user's manual in the recycle bin and scan the reference guide, we'll throw together some bullet points because, frankly, we'd rather you spend less time on your rump reading and more time on your mat sweating.

*You'll get a cardio workout. The heat raises your base heart rate, so even before you have started bending like a crescent moon, the increased heart rate checks off the 'cardio' box.

*Your immune system will improve. So important during cold and flu season.

*Slow down the darn aging process. By improving your circulation (again, our friend the heat helping out here) you keep blood vessels open, your spine stays more straight and your joints start to get better lubrication -- all elements in aging with grace and dignity.

*Bolster your bone density. Yes, 'tis true, yoga helps promote better calcium flow to your bones.

*Improve concentration and balance. Better balance will help your golf game and concentration gives you a mean backgammon. You'll also prevent injuries. Let's face it, standing on one leg requires lots and lots of concentration. Over time, that bulldog determination from the yoga mat will seep into other parts of your life. If you let it.

Click here to learn more about the man behind the series, Calcutta-born Bikram Choudhury.