The second of Bikram's Five Aspects of the Mind is Self Control. The conditioning of the body which occurs when practicing Bikram Yoga is only the beginning. It takes significant self control to actively practice any kind of physical program, particularly one so intensive as Bikram yoga which can be painful (or rather, intense) in some poses. However, this isn't precicely the Self Control Bikram is referring to. Since the body and the psyche are inexplicably connected, this physical conditioning begins to give you more and more control over your emotional well-being.
While it's not practical to expect anyone to have complete control over their emotions (or want to!) the opposite end of the spectrum means being at the mercy of your emotions. The Self Control needed to practice Bikram Yoga lends its strength to the ability to control one's reactions to emotion, both internal and external. When we can receive bad news and still be at peace, or when we can receive good news without becoming manic, we begin to develop a mind more at peace with itself and thus, more conducive to positive thoughts.
Having this sense of Self Control isn't about being a robot, it's about having a choice. Being able to choose how deeply you wish to be affected by the comings and goings in your life, and every tiny emotion, is vastly liberating. With Self Control, you are free to enjoy your life and be in a position of authority over what you allow to affect you deeply.
Bikram professed that loyalty and gratitude were two of the most essential qualities to view life from. An attitude of loyalty and graciousness aids our ability to exercise compassion and sensitivity to others. By having a sense of Self Control as well, we can be generous in our compassion without allowing the emotions of others to overpower us.