Wow, I am delighted and extremely honored to be student of the month at Bikram Yoga Grapevine! I love my yoga and I love Bikram Yoga Grapevine!
I have always been very active.. whether Tennis, which I played competitively for many years (& many many years ago), or Running, which is what I've done most in the last 10-15 years. But, as you might expect, my body began to wear....... and my knees started aching. I tried laying off of running, different shoes, etc., etc., but it wouldn't go away. So, I figured I needed to try something else. I'd done a little bit of Hatha Yoga before but nothing consistently, and I'd heard about Bikram Yoga several years ago from another (injured) runner who raved about it, but I was only aware of the Dallas studio. When Jen Graybiel mentioned to me that she'd been doing Bikram in Grapevine, I was excited to try it! So, I did. That was about a year and a half ago.. and I keep coming back!
I can't say enough about practicing Bikram Yoga. Even having run a few marathons in years past..., I feel like I'm in the best overall shape of my life right now - both physically and mentally. It is always a challenge to me.. and it really never seems to get much easier, but ah, the feeling of accomplishment at the end of the class is the absolute best. Rather than being stiff and sore, I feel fresh and renewed (give me a shower & I'm even more fresh & renewed! :-) ) . I know I've done something good for my body, my mind, my soul.
One of my favorite things about Bikram Yoga is the diversity of the people... all ages, backgrounds, shapes, and sizes, all working together as one. I looked up the term "Namaste" and although it has various interpretations, it boils down to the recognition of the equality of all, and paying honor to the sacredness of all. How wonderful, and appropriate. I also like knowing that this is a practice that is good for me no matter what age. And, although I always need to remind myself, I do know I won't ever be perfect in posture and I don't have to be. Perfect EFFORT makes for a perfect practice. So, as we're taught, as long as I give it my best and try to follow the form to the best of my ability, I'm receiving 100% benefit. How nice is that.
I have been to a few other studios and I have to say that I think Bikram Yoga Grapevine stands high above the rest! The teachers and all the staff are all very patient and nurturing, but challenging and firm; they take their practice seriously but offer great humor, open-ness, and understanding. They always remain in tune with the students and provide wonderful advice, support and encouragement to each and every one. I thank you all for your knowledge and spirit, and for sharing the gift of yourself with so many of us!
Namaste!
- Cathy McCauley
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