I began my Bikram Yoga practice in November of 2003. Most claim their first class is difficult because of the heat and the sweat, but for me, the challenge was my focus (or lack thereof!). In between postures, I found myself furtively glancing around the room thinking, "Wow, these people aren't even moving their eyes!" I have always been a person who couldn't seem to sit still, and I added yoga to the running, roller-blading and aerobics I already practiced. Little did I know then the profound impact this yoga would have as it became my one form of daily physical exercise.
In September of 2004, after tearing the ligaments in my right ankle, I was surprised to find that after only a week of practice, my ankle was back on track. But the true testament to Bikram Yoga for me came later in December, after a New Year's ski trip to Colorado where I fell and tore both my ACL and MCL in my right knee. After returning to Texas and visiting two Orthopedic surgeons, both opinions deemed surgery a necessity, with physical therapy before the procedure. I was an emotional wreck. I returned to the studio just to be in the room, and with the support of Karen and David, it wasn't long before I quit physical therapy and allowed the yoga to heal my knee and mental state.
The surgeon said it was time to schedule surgery, and though I wasn't positive about my decision, I went ahead and scheduled it for March 16, 2005. Meanwhile, I was fortunate to help coordinate the arrival of Baba Rampuri to the studio, and to accompany Karen, David, and Baba to dinner that evening. Discussing my surgery at dinner, Baba Rampuri asked me if I knew for sure that was what I wanted and the best I could muster was a qualified and hesitant 'yes'. Baba told me the story of Bikram: many years ago he had injured his knee and doctors said he would never walk again. They encouraged me to call Bikram to discuss my decision, and the next day I left a message with Bikram's assistant in Los Angeles. He called me back the very next day and left me a message. "Christeeennna, this is Biiiikram. No surgery. Call me." When we did speak, he encouraged me I did not need the surgery to make a full recovery. The day before my scheduled surgery, as I stood in class, I realized how strong, both mentally and physically, I had become since my injury. I decided not to have the surgery then and there. Finally, I felt content!
Bikram Yoga has opened my mind to many possibilities, allowed me to connect with my body and mind, and with others around me. Not only has it healed my knee, it has shown me how strong I am, the value of life, family and friends. I have committed myself to my practice and come 7 days a week. My calf and quad are back to normal size. A few weeks ago, I was finally able to go back into fixed firm, a posture I had been unable to achieve since my injury! As I am committed to making this a life long practice and want to share the benefits with the world, I will travel to California this September to become a certified Bikram Yoga instructor!
I thank my wonderful friends and family for getting me through a tough part in my life. I know I will experience more challenges along the way and I know I can lean on you. Mom, Greg, Meme, Papa, Daydra, Erin, both my Christina's (Troyer and Stathis), Sherri, Larry, and Jack.
I cannot begin to say enough about Karen and David's ongoing support and faith in me, which has been instrumental in my journey. I value the strong studio they have created in Dallas, the dedicated teachers, and of course our beautiful students, who make this studio the very best.
Christina Swink
