I don't know what first brought me to Bikram Yoga. I think that I saw the place on a bike ride and was curious. I signed up for the 10 day introduction and was hooked. Although I had negative thoughts running through my head during every class: "This is so hard. Why am I here? It's so hot. I can't believe I get up so early in the morning for this torture." Thankfully it is the euphoria I feel at the end of every class that brings me back the next day. After just a few weeks my husband Scott noticed my increased stamina and strength on the tandem bicycle that we ride. I've always joked that I am his weight training, as he does most of the work on the bike but now it seems that I am pulling my own weight. I thought the yoga would be good for him as he is into intense sports but he was not interested in stretching I finally dared him into it by saying that it was so hard I doubted he could complete the class. Being competitive he had to take me up on the dare and now he is hooked too. He does not experience as many injuries in his competitions and training as he did before and his recovery time is much quicker. I brought my niece once and she was inspired to begin practicing in Oregon where she now lives. I have been encouraging my sister to come but she is afraid of the heat.
We just recently returned to Texas after a 14 year absence, the last 11 in New York so we were concerned about being able to stand the hot summers but we have had no trouble acclimating. After exercising in 105 degrees for 90 minutes, walking around in 100 degrees feels like a cool breeze. I miss it so much when I am not able to come and my first day back after a trip is usually difficult. Due to exhaustion and dehydration I am often not able to do every posture but I know by the end of class I will feel revived. It's very energizing.
I began practicing a little over a year ago and with the added benefit of Deep Tissue Massages from Tiffanie the chronic hip pain that I have experienced for the last few years has been alleviated. I am inspired by so many of my fellow practitioners: Kylie, Barbara, Russ, Clark, Lori, Carissa, Len, Trish, Jim, and so many more. You all work so hard and have made such a commitment often despite injuries. You all inspire me to focus and try harder. Every single one of the teachers is my favorite for different reasons. When they give instructions I try to correct my posture whether or not they are talking to me. I look forward to seeing their smiling happy faces and hearing their encouragement. I am so lucky to have found this special place. - Pam King
