Kate

I went to my first class on a Sunday afternoon in the beginning of August 2008. I have always been very active, and I was looking for a new way to challenge myself. I heard about Bikram Yoga, and although I thought it sounded like a crazy concept, I decided to try a class. I remember being so inspired by what the people around me were able to do, and I loved how I felt after class! I immediately wanted to go back.

Bikram Yoga has improved my flexibility and strength. It has given me a sense of calm and emotional stability, and it has taught me how to breathe and relax. It’s one of the best forms of stress relief! I was recently forced to take almost nine months off from yoga due to blood clots in my leg and lungs. Although I have only been back to yoga for a little over a month, I can feel my circulation improving and the valves in my legs healing.  I know that the more I practice, the more I will heal.

My favorite posture is backward bending in half moon pose! It’s such a freeing feeling and a wonderful stretch.

Every class is different, and some classes are much harder than others. No matter what kind of class I have, my day is always better because I practiced. The difficult classes teach me to pace myself and respect my limitations. It is often the hard classes that improve my practice the most. I’m never disappointed as long as I know I’ve worked as hard as I could. I’m always excited to return and try the next class.

Bikram yoga has changed my life in so many ways. It has brought me in tune with my body. I’ve learned how flexible and strong I can be, how I can push myself beyond where I thought I could go. I am proud of my practice and amazed by how I can always learn something new if I just listen. Bikram yoga has taught me grace, discipline, humility and attention to detail. It allows me to drown out the noise and chaos of life. I’ve also met some wonderful and inspiring people through this yoga, and I am lucky to know them. Bikram yoga has gotten me through some of the most difficult times in my life. I can’t wait to see where it takes me!