I have been a closet Bikram Yoga fan for the past eight months. Now thanks to Stacey, Sherri, LaDonna, and the rest of the teachers, who decided I was worthy of the honor of student of the month, the secret is out of the bag. I thought, I could go along practicing forever and no one outside the studio other than my family and a very few select friends would ever find out that I practiced yoga. Of the friends I have told, one has given me the new nickname of "yogi bear" while another has told me, "Just say it. Daniel Valles practices yoga. It just sounds funny." The jokes will definitely pick up now but to be honest they will not nor have they bothered me. I would have said the same thing 9 months ago but I can tell you that I am now hooked.
How I got started?
Rewind to December of 2004, I had gained close to 90 lbs since high school and was completely out of shape. I had suffered several injuries from playing soccer over the years, torn muscles and knee surgeries to name a few. Worst, my attitude was in need of a serious adjustment. My mother kept suggesting (I considered it nagging) that I try Bikram Yoga. She some how talked my two sisters into joining the "Daniel should try Bikram cause." So, I decided to attend a class that way I could say "I tried it, I don't like it, and it didn't help". One problem, I enjoyed the class.
Why I enjoy Bikram Yoga?
As usual, mother knows best and always seems to be right. Yoga has offered me a way to combat all three problems at the same time. My cardiovascular strength and flexibility has improved and it never hurts to sweat. I have lost 25+ pounds and I am confident in saying that more pounds will be coming off over the next several months. My leg strength has increased significantly from day one as well as my range of motion in my knees. Last, I don't know how to explain it, but class seems to relieve any frustration, tension, or anger I might have on a particular day. My overall well-being has just greatly changed and improved. Yoga has become a part of my life.
Thanks, I think.
I actually think Stacey should be thanking me for writing this little bit about myself and allowing her to put my picture on the internet. Seriously, Stacey, Sherri, LaDonna, Teresa, and Sami, I thank each one of you. You all have been very supportive and encouraging from the day I started. Last, thank you for continuing to make every class fun, exciting, demanding, and challenging me to be at my best.
- Daniel Valles
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