I've been a Bikram Yoga student for quite some time but continually struggled with losing weight. Before the Summer Bikram Challenge, I had moderate to healthy eating habits, but was not taking a high grade of supplements. I am a national sales manager and travel often with my job; still I averaged 3 classes a week. I decided for the challenge I would strive to attend class 4 or 5 times a week, focus on consistently better eating habits, and take the Pharmanex supplements regularly.
As the challenge continued, I was surprised and frustrated that though I did shed a few pounds, the changes in my weight were modest in light of the intense effort I was putting forth. This lead me on a serious quest to find out why I continued to struggle with weight loss when it appeared to me I was doing everything "right". Halfway through the challenge, I uncovered that I have and probably have had for the last three years a significant thyroid problem. The challenge then became not just a physical quest but an emotional one as well-- I began in earnest to search for answers for my underlying weight issue (which I now know is 70% attributed to my under-active thyroid). This has obviously altered the landscape of my life completely.
After the challenge, I have realized weight loss, and discovered health issues I can focus on alleviating through Bikram Yoga. I have improved energy and have made it a habit to visit Bikram studios while on the road for business. I personally thank David and Karen for motivating me by providing the vehicle through which I have discovered a way, at long last, to achieve balance. I also appreciate Chris and Victoria Campbell for introducing me to an enhanced supplement program - Pharmanex, which has also impacted my overall health.
I shared with Karen that this challenge really for me became more about what I had gained rather than what I had lost. Had I not signed up and really focused on my overall health for the three months of the challenge, I probably would not have gained the invaluable insight I now have regarding my thyroid issue and my overall health.
