A friend from college brought me to my first Bikram Yoga class. I thought we were going to the gym, but she wanted to try this yoga class she had been hearing about. I did not think yoga would be much of a work out, but I agreed to go anyway… I am so thankful! My whole first class I kept thinking, "I never knew I could sweat this much, it's so hot in here!" I practically ran out of the room when class was over. But I did what I was told at the end of class, "come back within 24 hours"… and I've been hooked ever since.
I can not say enough good things about Bikram Yoga. It has been such an important part of my life over the past year. I can't believe it has been a whole year since I started practicing. I have changed in so many ways and accomplished things I never thought possible. My body is completely different. I am stronger, more flexible, and a few pounds lighter! After the first few weeks of taking class, Joseph talked me into doing the 60 day challenge. I thought, well I'll just sign up for it but there is no way to come to yoga every single day for 60 days. The next thing I knew it was day 60! I was so proud of myself for sticking with it. I felt like a new person, physically and mentally. It really is true - I got a new body and a new mind. I actually think the mental benefits received from this yoga practice have been the most important to my life.
I am in graduate school, which has proven to be really tough. Before I started Bikram Yoga, I was always stressed out and anxious about school, tests, and just life in general. Bikram Yoga has completely changed that aspect of my life. It is amazing how much more relaxed and calm I am now. I am much more patient and much better at coping with the stress of school. Actually, I have found that my best classes are on those days that it's hard to even get through the front door. I may be in the worst mood going into class, but I always leave class with a positive attitude, feeling completely rejuvenated. I can always hear Mike telling us that the postures we hate the most are the ones we need the most. I believe it… the days I don't want to come are definitely the days I need it the most. Bikram Yoga has truly helped keep me sane through graduate school!
It is such an honor to be chosen as student of the month. Everyone at this studio has such a strong practice, which I believe is a testament to the great teachers and our soon to be teachers! Not only are they supportive in the yoga room, but outside of the yoga room. Bikram Yoga is such an important part of my life; I don't know what I would do without it! |
