I had dabbled in some yoga classes for about six months before coming to Bikram. I quickly realized that Bikram yoga was different!!! I never thought I'd make it through the first class. There was no music, it felt like it was about 150 degrees, and the teacher wanted us to look at ourselves in the mirror for 90 minutes. Like most of us, my relationship with Bikram yoga was a love/hate relationship at first, and now I can't imagine not having Bikram yoga in my life. I am not very flexible and could not even envision my body in the poses, much less get into them. I was encouraged by the stories that were shared in class about where people started and how they have progressed. I can certainly say that in my first class, I couldn't even touch my toes. The flexibility part of class is still, and will always be my challenge. I have gained a lot of flexibility since starting Bikram, even though it can take months or even years to get there. I cherish the centimeters of progress I make.
Like all of us, I lead a very full life. Bikram is helping me balance raising children, marriage, and a fulltime career. I love to go into the studio because this is a time fully dedicated to me, and where I feel the most control in my life. The other aspects of my life can be crazy, but for 90 minutes I am able to focus on the health and well being of my mind, body, and spirit.
This year in the fall I did the 60 Day Challenge (5 days a week!). I had always signed up for the challenge in the past, but had never successfully completed it. I could certainly tell a big difference in my practice, and that is when I really began to see some improvement in my flexibility. The challenge was really tough but the benefits are tremendous!!!! Stacey wrote a personal note after completing the challenge which was very meaningful. While I was doing the challenge I had the opportunity to travel to several different studios, and our studio in Grapevine is definitely the best. Thank you Stacey for the new and improved studio.
I would be remiss if I did not mention what an awesome staff is at Bikram Grapevine. Stacey, Sherri, LaDonna, Sami, Jay and Carla, are all outstanding, and really care about each and every student. They help to personalize our experience and always offer guidance and praise. I appreciate the support from all the students who practice at Grapevine. There are some days that I don't think I'm going to make it through class, but there is always so much positive energy in the studio that I get through it
Of course, none of this happens without the guidance, support, and enthusiasm of Stacey, Sherri, LaDonna, Teresa, Sami, Jay, and Carla. Thank you all! It doesn't happen either without the energy and support of each and every fellow Yogi and Yogini. Thank you!
- Patti Rebeil
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