I was shocked that, after swimming competively for more than 15 years, I couldn't make it through the first set of Half Moon. I thought of myself as "in shape," but after the first class I knew that I had a long way to go! After more than a year doing Bikram, I can see how people do this yoga for decades. I am so happy that I found an exercise that helps my body grow stronger, instead of damaging it further!

After your first Bikram class, what was your impression?

I was shocked that, after swimming competively for more than 15 years, I couldn't make it through the first set of Half Moon. I thought of myself as "in shape," but after the first class I knew that I had a long way to go! After more than a year doing Bikram, I can see how people do this yoga for decades. I am so happy that I found an exercise that helps my body grow stronger, instead of damaging it further!

What drives you to continue to practice? What keeps bringing you back?

The deep stretching is addictive, and I can see immediate results when I commit to going three to four times a week.

What are some of the benefits and changes you've seen in yourself?

I can sit in Fixed Firm, and my bum hits the floor! When I started, I was a foot off of the floor, in excruciating pain. I can also bend lower into Triangle, something which I've been trying to accomplish for over a year. My overall balance has increased, as well as my flexibility in my hips.

What is your favorite posture?

My favorite changes daily, depending on what is hurting that day...but I do love the Floor Bow, since it looks so pretty!

What is the greatest challenge about the yoga? Yourself?

My greatest challenge is myself. I struggle to find the time to get to yoga, and there always seems to be hundreds of convenient excuses not to go. However, when I do get past the door, I know that I'm about to treat myself to the best workout my body could get.

What advice can you give to a 1st timer after they complete the class?

Come back! Keep coming, no matter how you felt after the first class!!

Additional:

I think that the teachers at this studio are simply amazing. Each one has a different teaching style, but all are committed to helping every person through every posture in every class!!