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Archive for the ‘yogi of the month’ Category

John Wardashki

Friday, September 3rd, 2010

Tell us a little bit about yourself.

What brought you to the Bikram yoga practice?

How often do you practice?

What specific physical issues, if any, did you have before taking your first class?

What are the greatest benefits of your practice?

How has this practice changed your health and life? Any emotional or other benefits?

What is your favorite part of Bikram yoga?

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Suzette DeMent

Monday, August 2nd, 2010

Tell us a little bit about yourself.
I am a wife, mother, grandmother, sister. I enjoy playing golf with my husband several times a week. I am a better yogi than golfer, but I apply my “yogi powers” and visualize golf as a “practice” which enables me to disregard the score card! I read several books a week.

What brought you to the Bikram yoga practice?
I had been practicing yoga at home for two years (BKS Iyengar) and my English bulldog determination was flagging!

How often do you practice?
Five days a week

What specific physical issues, if any, did you have before taking your first class?
None, or so I thought! Then I had my first class…with Liz! My body was totally out of balance in strength and flexibility. It was hard to stand with my heels and toes together…keep my palms together “like the glue”…control my breath…My first class was like child birth. I was not sure how much the human body could take!

What are the greatest benefits of your practice?
My body does not limit my moment by moment choices. My mind, I am still working on! The goal is “union” after all.

How has this practice changed your health and life? Any emotional or other benefits?
I feel that I am aging gracefully. My life is in no way restricted by physical limitations and that brings me great joy. It is true that a consistent practice makes you bullet proof, etc., and with that comes confidence, optimism and peace.

What is your favorite part of Bikram yoga?
How do I love thee? Let me count the ways: the warm greetings each time I come into the studio, the surprise of seeing who will be teaching, the heat, the breathing, the asanas, the slight physical or mental improvement when you least expect it, the personal corrections and encouragement from the teachers. Although the dialogue and asanas remain the same, our fantastic teachers keep each class interesting and challenging because they, too, love the yoga.

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Christine Davis

Wednesday, June 30th, 2010

Tell us a little about yourself.

I am 51 and the proud mom of my 23 year old son, Erik. I have been an educator for 20 years and am currently a high school counselor. What I love most about my job is offering support to young students as they tackle everyday challenges. I’m also blessed to work with a group of professionals who are my second family.

What brought you to the Bikram yoga practice?

I was curious about the practice of yoga. My son encouraged me to walk in the yoga studio and inquire.

How often do you practice?

I try to practice at least 3 to 4 times a week and typically every day during holiday breaks and summer breaks.

What was your exercise background before Bikram?

I took aerobic classes for several years at a local gym. I also did weight training, running and hiking.

What specific health issues, if any, did you have before taking your first class?

Fortunately, I have been healthy all my life. I have had some weight issues but the yoga and better eating habits have helped with that.

What are the greatest benefits of your practice?

One immediate benefit is how my practice has improved my posture. When I first started my practice, I remember lying on my back and placing my fist between my lower back and the floor. I think that’s called sway back. Six years later, I can barely slide my open hand underneath. I also have an easier time holding my stomach in and standing straighter.

Another benefit I have gained from my practice is learning to listen more attentively both inside and outside of the yoga room. Sometimes I get ahead or behind of the teacher. I’ve learned that it takes discipline, obedience and patience to follow instructions. These are habits I try to transfer and utilize outside of the room.

How has this practice changed your health and your life?

I’ve begun to search more earnestly for spiritual answers to life. I attribute this quest due to changes in my life. One of the changes is the mental and physical strength I have gained in my practice.

In addition, the practice of yoga was partially responsible for rejoining my church after 35 years of separation. There are many days that I grapple for answers, but I tell myself not to give up life’s challenges. This is one of the things I first learned in the yoga room.

Any emotional or other benefits?

Sometimes I let my mind get ahead during my practice. While I’m in one posture, I think about all the other postures that follow and how I may not make it. When this happens, I stop and tell myself to concentrate only on what I’m doing. Take one posture at a time. I try to apply the thought process of taking one step at a time to the personal and professional challenges I face everyday as well. As a result, I feel less overwhelmed.

What is your favorite part of Bikram?

My favorite part of Bikram is being surrounded by unique people who come together with a unified purpose to improve their quality of life.

Anything else you would like to add?

I want to thank Lisa, Steve and the awesome instructors for their dedication to the Bikram practice and to their students. Their faith in the practice of yoga as well as their enthusiasm and encouragement make the 26 postures feel fresh and new each time I practice. That is amazing to me! It is an honor to be selected Yogi of the month.

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Joanna Satterfield

Tuesday, June 1st, 2010

Tell us a little bit about yourself.

I am a mother of twin 12 year olds, Scout and Charlie, and three dogs.  During the day I am a teacher for NISD, certified for the regular classroom and for special education.  I work with mostly emotionally disturbed children, but I also teach social skills to the general population at my elementary school.  When I am not working, I love to practice Bikram Yoga, ride my bike with the kids, cook, and read.  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

What brought you to the Bikram yoga practice?

My mother! She has been practicing for several years.  At the end of September she asked me to call her everyday to make sure she was going to the studio.  She then asked me to go with her to try it out.  I worked up my courage for a few days, and then went for ten days straight.  I was hooked!

How often do you practice?

I have most recently been practicing 7 days a week!  I took a week off and am aiming for 5 days a week now.

 What was your exercise background before Bikram?

Pretty nonexistent.  I would sometimes go to the gym and use an elliptical machine.  We ride our bikes to the grocery store all the time, but that’s not even a mile from home! I was an athlete in another lifetime, but since I had the twins…

 What specific physical issues, if any, did you have before taking your first class?

I was overweight, lazy, stressed out, and slightly depressed! I’m still fairly young, 39, so I had no major issues, yet. However, I have never been flexible, which was why I was reluctant to go to a yoga class.

 What are the greatest benefits or your practice?

Getting rid of stress! This by itself has affected everything!  I have lost weight because I sleep and eat better (I’m sure the sweating helps too!). I have more energy and my skin looks better than ever!  The weight loss and clearer skin are the two things people comment on the most, however, it is the changes mentally for me that have been the greatest benefit.

How has this practice changed your health and life?

I am happier, lighter, and I can touch my toes.

Any emotional or other benefits?

The emotional benefits are probably the most significant for me.  I feel emotionally stronger. I am more confident or maybe just less worried about what other people think about me.  I feel better about myself now than I have in twenty years! Since I am not that physically fit, Bikram constantly challenges my determination, making me both physically and emotionally stronger.  My twins also reap the benefits of a calm mom. 

What is your favorite part of Bikram?

That’s an easy question: The people! I love my Bikram yogi friends.  I have met so many amazing people through the studio.  All the instructors are so wonderful and encouraging.  It makes me so happy to see everyone and I feel honored to practice with such fabulous people.

Anything else you would like to add?

I feel really honored to be chosen as student of the month.  I want to thank all of my yogi friends and instructors for the encouragement. Thanks to Lisa and Steve for making me feel at home and making such a fabulous studio. Also, a special thank you to my mother for bringing Bikram into my life!

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Michael Baucum

Friday, April 30th, 2010

Tell us a little bit about yourself…
I am sixty-four years old and an Attorney practicing transactional real estate. My wife, Laura, and I have two daughters.

What brought you to the Bikram yoga practice?
We were having dinner with yogi Charlie Hanor in February 2009. I told him I had been in a winter funk and needed a change.
He said, I have something for you–Bigram Yoga. I did my first class the next afternoon and I have kept coming back.

How often do you practice?
I try for 3 times a week, sometimes 4

What was your exercise background before Bikram?
I Have always done some sort of exercise. I started as a runner, strength trainer and regular at the old Trim & Swim, but the last few years before Bikram had been primarily working out on the treadmill.

What specific physical issues, if any, did you have before taking your first class?
I was pudgy, inflexibility, had aches across shoulders, sore legs–normal afflictions for the ex-runner and the desk job.

What are the greatest benefits of your practice?
I feel much better and I have dropped many pounds and inches. I have aches in different places now as I progress in my practice but that is a good by-product.

How has this practice changed your health and life?
I have dropped a suit size and stand taller, straighter. I think I have taken years off my calendar age. If yoga would only grow hair!

Any emotional or other benefits?
The break from the world for each class is great. It took a while to control my mind to where I really am in the moment, but that is good now that I can be there.

What is your favorite part of Bikram?
Other than physical changes I have made and the community I have met, my favorite thing is to walk out the front door of the studio into a cool sunny day. The exposure to all the different people is good. So many individual stories, yet just one story in common.

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Joshua Gutierrez

Thursday, April 1st, 2010

What brought you to the Bikram yoga practice?

It was actually accidental.  Dropped by a class and was hooked from the start  been practicing ever since.  Practice every chance I get and even seek out studios when I travel.   I’ve practiced in New York, LA, Miami, Boston and lots of other Bikram yoga studios. 

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Laura Frisk

Monday, March 1st, 2010

Tell us a little bit about yourself.

I am 46 and a business owner. I am the mother of a beautiful three year old daughter who lights my life up every day. My wonderful (and really hot) husband is licensed chiropractor and a professional bodybuilder.  I own a full service salon (Salon de Frisk) on Blanco and 410, where I have specialized in permanent cosmetics for over 16 years.

What brought you to Bikram Yoga?

My good friend, Angela convinced me to try Bikram Yoga out. We had just had our children around the same time, and I was amazed with the results she got. After trying the introductory special, I was hooked. I continue to enjoy the intensity and focusing properties of yoga.

How often do you practice?

5 days a week (more if I could!)

What was your exercise background before Bikram?

I had a personal trainer who used a combination of cross training with weights and cardio to give me a full body workout.

What specific physical issues did you have before taking your first class?

During the years of 2004 and 2005, I had two lower back surgeries.

What are the greatest benefits of your practice?

I no longer experience lower back pain on a regular basis. While I feel that my whole body is strengthened and toned, Bikram Yoga has given me more energy, and mental clarity to help my busy lifestyle.

How has this practice changed your health and life?

I have always maintained healthy lifestyle, but Bikram Yoga has taken it to a whole new level of fitness.

What is your favorite part of Bikram?

I love the challenge, mental focus, and determination it takes to do the postures.

Anything else you would like to add?

I want to personally thank the instructors for inspiring me to come on a daily basis. I help people look beautiful, and I appreciate the same dedication from the instructors towards me. I am very honored to be selected for Bikram Yoga Student of the Month for March, may God continue to bless your business and all the great teachers.

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Angel Serna

Monday, February 1st, 2010

Tell us a little bit about yourself.

I am not going to tell you my age, but I feel that I have bought some time ever since I started coming to Bikram Yoga. I have a full time job in a management position.  I am currently building my own house. I devote my entire weekends to my house and I hope to move in by this summer.  I am married and we have 4 dogs. I enjoy outdoor activities.

What brought you to the Bikram yoga practice? 

My wife was attending  Bikram Yoga by herself.  She asked me to join her  for one practice.   She told me that it was fun and that we could lose weight together.  She never mentioned the heat!

How often do you practice?

I work out 3-4 days a week.

What was your exercise background before Bikram? 

Martial Arts

What specific physical issues, if any, did you have before taking your first class? 

I was over weight, my lower back was always hurting.

What are the greatest benefits of your practice? 

I can sleep all night without waking up in the middle of the night.  I feel better when I wake up in the morning.  It was hard for me to stay alert during company meetings.

How has this practice changed your health and life?

I feel better, I have more energy during the day.  I am able to work around the house without pain in my lower back.

Any emotional or other benefits?

I feel and look younger.  I do not feel stressed.

What is your favorite part of Bikram?

DANDAYAMANA DHANURASANA

Anything else you would like to add?   

I feel great after my practice and I know I have regenerated my body.

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Mary Borden

Thursday, December 31st, 2009

Tell us a little bit about yourself.

I’ve been teaching middle school grades for the past 20 years, 6th grade reading 10 of the last 12 years here at Fort Sam Houston.  I grew up as the daughter of a career Marine and married a career Army man, a guy I adore.  I come from a fairly large, loud Italian family, so I like being around large groups of people and socializing.  I’m organized and disciplined (see above upbringing), but I tend to try to squeeze too many things into any given day, so I’m always on the go.  I relax best reading on the beach…any beach…or on one of the mini-vacations Greg treats me to….I have to be away from home to stop the frenetic pace I impose on myself. 

What brought you to the Bikram yoga practice?

My ballet teacher, Judith Gani, started talking about Bikram.  She was going to the Alamo Heights studio once in a while before Lisa and Steve opened the Hollywood Park location.  She raved about the workout.  I wasn’t getting enough class time, only two nights a week, with ballet and wasn’t happy with going to the gym, so when I saw the HP sign go up, I popped in to check it out.  I was attracted by the 7 days a week and multiple class choice schedule.  I also think some body types, like mine, respond better to stretching than muscle building exercises, so it was the perfect challenge for me.

How often do you practice?

It varies, but when I’m on-track and Greg is traveling, five times a week.  My goal is always at least four days a week.

What was your exercise background before Bikram?

I’ve always been active. Throughout high school, I marched in a competitive drum and bugle corps.  I’ve spent time in the gym on and off, dancing (you name it, I’ve tried it…from belly dancing and hula to ballet), I paddled on a competitive outrigger canoe team in Hawaii, I love to day-hike, and golf.    

What specific physical issues, if any, did you have before taking your first class?

I had back surgery, a microdisectomy, in Hawaii, just before I moved to Texas.  My body, despite all the exercise, has always been very tight, so I’m often very stiff and sore until I get moving and warm all my muscles up.

What are the greatest benefits of your practice?

I credit Bikram with reducing my stress level enormously.  The first three years of my practice allowed me to continue teaching 6th graders.  Up until then, I used to constantly update my resume every year and drive everyone around me crazy with my desire to change professions.  I really do love teaching reading, despite my outward appearance when I get to yoga in the afternoon, so I’m very grateful!!  Going to class is also a great way to get my aches and pains under control, to keep my back flexible, to relieve headaches, and to check out of the rat race and into a peaceful place for a couple hours.

How has this practice changed your health and life?

I think is helps me achieve the balance I’ve always sought to maintain.  I’ve met a number of people, through Bikram who have helped in the journey toward achieving balance.  I’d like to give a shout out to Hubert, ReBeca and Becky.

Any emotional or other benefits?

Being part of this Bikram family is a huge emotional benefit.  There is always someone to vent to, to ask advice of, to share with, to laugh with, to cry with.  It never fails that instructors and classmates alike notice when you are up or down and, instead of avoiding you, they jump in with both feet to ask what’s up. 

What is your favorite part of Bikram?

How I feel after class!!

Of course, I love the people and love having had the opportunity to become part of a wonderful group.  Lisa and Steve have created an amazing atmosphere of camaraderie.  Everywhere I go, from boarding airplanes, to NIOSA, to checking out a new martini bar, I bump into “yoga” people.  My other friends are always impressed by how many people I know….even when we don’t always know each other’s names!!  The anniversary parties are awesome too!

Anything else you would like to add?

My goal is to look like I do now (although I’m always open to looking younger!) by continuing to practice Bikram for as long as I can. 

I’d also like to thank the entire staff for recognizing my effort and for choosing me to represent January 2010!!  I really appreciate the pat on the back!

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Isaias Navarro

Friday, December 4th, 2009

Tell us a little bit about yourself

I moved to the US with my family about eighteen years ago in search of a cure to an illness my now departed wife suffered for most of her adult life. We tried time after time with different doctors in Mexico with no luck. Once we moved here, we were lucky to find an answer at the UCLA Medical Center that prolonged her life another 14 years. After she passed, about four years ago, my children and their families decided to relocate to San Antonio. Here, after discovering Bikram yoga, I started to experience a renascence phase on my life, I am 68 years old now and I never felt better!

 

What brought you to the Bikram yoga practice?

My son Jesus and his wife Toni invited me to practice the first time and I have been hooked ever since.

How often do you practice?

My practice varies anywhere from 3 to 5 times a week.

What was your exercise background before Bikram?

I used to walk or jog round 4 miles just about everyday. I also love going hiking with my family every time I get a chance to visit my old town in Mexico.

What specific physical issues, if any, did you have before taking your first class?

I used to have lower back pain which has subsided and mostly disappeared with this practice.

What are the greatest benefits of your practice?

On top of the health benefits I get, practicing yoga makes me feel positive, energetic, and stronger.

How has this practice changed your health and life?

On regards to my health, my doctor tells me that my blood pressure and cholesterol levels have been maintained well within safe levels; that in itself is a great change since I used to have problems with both. And I love the lifestyle.

Any emotional or other benefits?

Practicing Bikram yoga does not give you a chance to feel sad or depressed. It actually makes you feel GREAT! That is an excellent emotional benefit!

What is your favorite part of Bikram?

A ‘wise’ man (Steve) once said that his favorite part of Bikram yoga was SABASANA, I definitely agree with him.

Anything you would like to add?

I just want to thank you all; Lisa, Steve, and everyone else in the ‘family’ for making it painful (Lisa) and yet enjoyable. (No Steve, you do not get this one)

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Vicki Aguirre Cox

Tuesday, November 3rd, 2009

Tell us a little bit about yourself

I will be 50 years young this year and will be about halfway to my life on earth. I love to read, write, teach, jog and of course do yoga.

Family is everything to me! I will even miss a yoga class for my granddaughters – Sofia and Stella, occasionally for Ernie and Gabe and even sometimes for my love of life Ernest. That is why I love yoga because we are familia!

I own a business –Victoria’s INK, educational and life coaching and I have taught people of all ages from birth to 102 from all walks of life and abilities. My educational background included elementary, special and leadership. I have published a children’s book and have about 5 more books started just need more time; I want to clone myself.

What brought you to the Bikram yoga practice?

When my Ernie (my oldest son) and Liz shared with us that we were going to be abuelitos (grandparents) I took a good look at myself to see if that was what I wanted my grandbaby to SEE. I have always tried to balance my life spirit, mind and body, so working out has been a part of my life forever! My honey (Ernest) shared with me the pleasures of margaritas, which is probably my greatest vice, but I love them! Those empty calories are hard to work off. Anyway when I saw myself I said “uh-oh”. So I decided to start a journey of TOTAL fitness for my life, for I have always known that by 50 (which will be this year, December 6th!) I wanted to establish a lifetime balance. So two years ago I started learning about eating better – rice, beans and enchiladas are delicious just not as nutritious; and jogging. Running has always been a passion of mine. I lost 50 pounds and was eating better within 6 months. I was worried though that jogging may not be the best way to stay fit and I did not know if my body could take all the pounding until 102, because I intend to live that long ! So I came to Bikram…my first class with LIZ was amazing! I knew at that moment that Bikram yoga was going to be a part of my life FOREVER. I found a practice which I knew would always be challenging and for which there is no mastery, instead a lifetime journey, which is how I approach all of my life. Since that first day it has only gotten better. I love all the instructors, Lisa and Steve have created that utopia, a place where everyone is welcomed and loved. My youngest Gabe says I belong to a cult; he calls me a “drugless hippie” for I believe in love, peace and harmony!!! Yes yoga completes me!

How often do you practice?

I like to practice every day, sometimes 6 classes in one day, ha-ha!!! I try to balance so I am trying to make myself practice 5 times a week, jog three times and bike one day a week. I truly have to make myself take a break because I love my yoga.

What was your exercise background before Bikram?

I have done many types of fitness …jogging always, martial arts (I am a 2nd Degree Black Belt), cardio-kickboxing, step, aerobics- floor and step, played volleyball in school and Pilates. I have done machines but could not figure out how to make them people…I am a “people person” and really enjoy group practices, competition drives me, sometimes…

What specific physical issues, if any, did you have before taking your first class?

None that I was aware, I discovered recently that I have a tear in my shoulder which will require surgery. I will be doing one- armed yoga during my recovery. And hope to do so during Spring Break so I can be ready for the Olympics.

What are the greatest benefits of your practice?

The balance it helps me maintain in my life. Yoga addresses all three – spirit, mind and body. Like jogging yoga is a time I can think about who I am and where I am going; where my mind is totally engaged and I have to completely use my body. When I jog I feel totally free, with yoga I feel totally connected to my own spirituality. Jogging I try to solve all the issues in my life, when I do yoga I let them all go and my mind is free. While jogging my body gets the benefits but sometimes I can feel the pounding as well; while with yoga although can be tortuous (especially with Lisa) my body gets a total benefit “inside and out”. Thus the greatest benefit all aspects are good for you!

How has this practice changed your health and life?

Yoga is a safe haven for me. I pretty much have control of my life. My health is good especially considering my history. At 14 years old, two weeks before my 15th birthday (Dec. 6th), I had a diagnosis of acute lymphocytic leukemia and my parents were told to plan for my funeral that would most likely occur before Christmas. I decided to fight the disease and underwent 4 years of chemotherapy, at that time VERY EXPERIMENTAL and only about a 20% chance of survival. Sadly with this particular blood cancer things are not much better. So given that history, no relapses, two children and two granddaughters later I am doing well. I wish I had learned about nutrition sooner in my life but I am trying to learn it now. The impact to my life with the disease has been a stronger mind, vivacious spirit and my body well I have some scars externally and internally. The greatest of these is that often I feel locked in my body, my mind wants to do more but somehow I cannot, i.e. my running is jogging now, maybe that is why I cannot do eagle…ha-ha I am trying to find an explanation. Yoga is my escape into the world I believe, love, peace, harmony in a HOT room.

Any emotional or other benefits?

Emotional benefits absolutely, yoga is a reflection of my beliefs about humanity – the dialogue, the people and the atmosphere. I feel connected, I feel real and I feel stronger!

I can I survive without it absolutely but I am a better person with it!

Steve’s 90 minutes of comedy also allow me to release endorphins, even though I need a sweater for his class…who needs drug therapy when we have him!?

What is your favorite part of Bikram?

The message…we are worthy, we all have a place…as Lisa always says “leave your ego outside of the room”…I like that all people are welcome and we all have a fit. The LOVE, I guess my Gabe is right I am a hippie!

Anything else you would like to add?

I hope that my presence in the yoga room/family is perceived as I want it to be; I want to be a positive force in the lives of people that surround me. I realize we are all human and life can take a toll on us but it is so precious, believe me once you have experienced death, as I have the appreciation for living is so great.

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Andy Morales

Saturday, October 10th, 2009

Tell us about yourself.

My name is Andy Morales. I was born and raised in SA.  I have worked as a registered nurse for the last 12 years and a certified rehabilitation registered nurse, currently working for an insurance company as a case manager.  I am also a licensed massage therapist and I find massage to be a wonderful complement to nursing.  I have been practicing yoga for a little of a year now and love it.  This is where I get a little selfish.  I practice yoga to give back to myself.  It’s all about me.  It not only renews my body but my mind and spirit as well.  No matter what kind of day I’ve had, I always feel better after yoga.  One of my long term goals is to get my yoga teaching certification.

What brought you to the Bikram Yoga Practice?

A friend of mind at work told me about Bikram. The heat/humidity was extreme to say the least, but I was able to follow along despite not knowing very much about yoga.  I had to lay down right after bow pose, I was hooked.

How often do you practice?

I practice Bikram 3-4 times a week and at other studios 1-3 times a week.

What specific physical issues, if any, did you have before taking your first class?

My back would get stiff and would ache daily.  I couldn’t bend down without hurting my back. My hopes were also extremely tight and I would get short of breath with minimal activity.

How has this practice changed your health and life?

My aches and pains are nearly gone. The stiffness in my back is only occasional now.  I can forward bend and just recently I have been able to touch my forehead to the floor.  My hopes are not nearly as tight as they used to be. With the combination of Yoga and dieting, I have managed to lose 44 lbs and counting.

What is your favorite part of Bikram?

After going to many classes at various studios, my favorite part is the spirit of family that I feel at Bikram. I would like to thank the staff at BYSA for choosing me as October Student of the Month. I would never have met all the great teachers who continue to inspire me to keep on doing my yoga. 

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Alice Kozel

Tuesday, September 8th, 2009

Tell us a little bit about yourself.

I’m a 54 year- old wannabe athlete trapped in a middle- aged body.

What brought you to the Bikram yoga practice?

 I needed a stretching regime.  As much as I work out and cycle I never took the time to stretch out my muscles.  Consequently I was always stiff and sore.  It was getting to be a vicious cycle….plus I was tired of not being able to touch my toes.  A co-worker told me this was the most intensely challenging exercise he had ever done.  That immediately piqued my interest.

How often do you practice?

When my work schedule permits I try to get to the studio 4 days a week.

 What was your exercise background before Bikram?

I’m a cyclist by nature.  I love long rides on quiet roads.  I used to log a lot of hours in the gym lifting weights and using the elliptical trainer, but find I’m happiest when I’m outdoors hiking and exploring. 

What specific physical issues, if any, did you have before taking your first class?

I have a right total knee replacement as well as two rods and pins in my lower back.  Sometimes I think I’m being put back together piece by piece.  I’m pretty rough on my body and it has taken its toll.

What are the greatest benefits of your practice?

How has this practice changed your health and life?

Any emotional or other benefits?

I work constantly with the public.  I find I’m able to be more calm in stressful situations and am learning, albeit slowly, not to take myself so seriously.  I’ve also gained some much- needed mobility in my knee and back, although I can tell when I push myself too hard.  Metal only gives so much!!

What is your favorite part of Bikram?

Those ‘aha’ moments when I I’m listening to the dialog and I finally get what the instructor is saying.  Getting the breathing mastered is the key I think.  I find if I concentrate on just being able to breathe normally through a posture it helps even if I can’t hold it for long. 

 Anything else you would like to add?

I’m pretty hard on myself when I don’t get something right away.  This yoga is slowly teaching me to ‘lighten up on myself and just go with the flow’.  Eventually it will happen, maybe not today, or tomorrow, but it will happen.  Just keep on breathing!! 

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Patricia Bond

Thursday, August 27th, 2009

BY: Tell us a little bit about yourself

PB: We relocated to San Antonio from Chicago after my husband accepted a job August ’08. Our three daughters visit occasionally. We live in King William with our two Labrador Retrievers and two cats.

BY: What brought you to the Bikram yoga practice?

PB: Bikram Yoga San Antonio has convenient locations, frequent classes and an excellent teaching staff.

BY: How often do you practice?

PB: I practice daily to the best of my schedule.

BY: What was your exercise background before Bikram?

PB: In Chicago, tennis league, yoga and biking were exercise activities I enjoyed.

BY: What specific physical issues, if any, did you have before taking your first class?

PB: My knees are sensitive.

BY: What are the greatest benefits of your practice?

PB: Balance, improved strength and increased knee joint mobility are a few of the benefits from my Bikram practice.

BY: How has this practice changed your health and life?

PB: It has given me hope that I can have a better life in the future given the PD diagnosis.

BY: Any emotional or other benefits?

PB: The Bikram experience has introduced me to many friends, in addition to, toning and strengthening.

BY: What is your favorite part of Bikram?

PB: Yoga quiets my mind and clears the clutter.

BY: Anything else you would like to add?

PB: I look forward to both triangle and camel postures in my practice. But, I really enjoy Lisa’s Labradors as I have two myself.

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Hans Lange

Monday, July 13th, 2009

What brought you to the Bikram yoga pactrice?
I had been going to Spectrum for over 10 years. Spectrums treatment of their employees, and as a consequence, the employees treatment of the customers became uncomfortable. Our daughter kept telling us great your program was, and the wife and I finally paid you a visit. We were hooked.

What specific issues, if any, did you have before taking your first class?
Partial loss of balance caused by Parkinson disease. Lower back pain with very tight hips and hamstrings.

What are the greatest benefits of your practice?
Some improvement in my ability to balance on one foot, and gradual opening of joints and increase in flexibility and strength.

How has this practice changed your health and life?
It has given me hope that I can have a better life in the future given the PD diagnosis.

Tell us a little bit about yourself……
My name is Hans Jack Lange. I was born in London, England, within the “sounds of St. Mary le Bow Church bells, which makes me a cockney, but without the accent so charmingly expressed in my Fair Lady. I came to this country in 1955 at the age of 17. Served in the U. S. Army and retired from the Civil Service in 2002. I am now 71 years old and have been retired since 2002. I have a degree in Industrial Engineering. I have a wonderful wife, a very lovely daughter, and a handsome son. The entire family is now into Bikram yoga.

Anything else you would like to add?
I think you have a great staff and I have fallen in love with all the ladies. The guys are great too. Seriously, what brings me back to sweat and struggle is the welcome feeling; the care shown by all; and the camaraderie I feel among all who come to the practice.

How long have you done Bikram Yoga?
Started in March 2008.

Why did you come in?
Not satisfied with Spectrum and Jenniferʼs high recommendations. Also felt this would be of greater benefit to my whole body then were treadmill and weights.

What is your favorite part of Bikram?
The knowledge and feeling that I am doing something very positive for my body.

Any emotional or other benefits?
A realization that I can make improvements, even after 70 + years of not taking care of myself as I should have.

How often do you practice?
When not on vacation, I try to average 4 to 5 times per week

What was your exercise background before Bikram?
Using the treadmill and stationary bike plus a series of exercises with weights.

What else would you like to share about your experience at Bikram San Antonio?
In the vernacular of today, “you guys rock.”

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Ronnie Huie

Monday, June 29th, 2009

Q&A with June Yogi of the Month “Uncle” Ronnie Huie

BY: How long have you done Bikram Yoga?

RH: Five years

BY: Why did you come in?
RH: I was playing golf with my son Ryan, who was attending law school at the time, and he was hitting the ball better than I had ever seen him hit it. I asked if he had been playing golf rather than attending class and he remarked “Dad it’s my Yoga” of which I responded,” YOGA”? He said when I come home for Christmas I will take you with me and you can see why it has helped me. I have heard him say several times YOGA helped him make it thru law school.

BY: What is your favorite part of Bikram?
RH: I think it is the way I feel about myself both inside and out. It gives me a certain confidence and peace about myself. I used to feel a little guilty when I saw someone jogging or working out and I knew I should be doing more, now I just smile internally.

BY: Have you experienced any physical benefits from your practice?
RH: You bet! I lost about 15 lbs, Although, I am still hyper- active, not nearly as much as I used to be. I sleep better, have more energy and my metabolism is much more efficient.

BY: Any emotional or other benefits?
RH: Emotional? I think on the emotional side YOGA has made me more confident and a less “stressed”. After I attend a YOGA class things that would normally stress me, don’t.

BY: How often do you practice?
RH: Three times per week. My idea of doing a double is to do it two days in a row.

BY: What was you exercise background before Bikram?
RH: Jogging, golf and occasionally joining a fitness club and working out so hard all at one time I would be so sore I could hardly move! Then not go again for a month. I’ve learned “if a little bit is good a whole lot is not always better” YOGA has helped me be more structured and lead a more balanced life.

BY: Where are you from?
RH: Ropesville, TX (its west of Wilson, north of Meadow, South of Smyer and East of Sundown)

BY: What else would you like to share about your experience at Bikram San Antonio?
RH: Steve and Lisa have done a wonderful job of making everyone feel special, welcome and a part of a family. When Trajan (Steve’s son) was born I told them since we are family that must make me “Uncle Ronnie.” I like being “Uncle Ronnie.” I have attended other Bikram Studio’s across the U.S. and I have never been to one that even comes close to the warmth, friendliness and personality of our studio. AND my fellow Yogi’s. I have made some lifelong friends I would not have met without YOGA. It has and continues to be an experience I will always hold in that favorite place in my heart.

BY: Tell us about your diet?
RH: I really do not have a special diet! I eat just about anything I like just don’t eat as much of it! It’s all about the new “Balanced Uncle Ronnie”. The days I am going to YOGA,I do refrain from eating those foods I know will “hurt” and during my practice wish I had not eaten.

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Dawn Ballard

Monday, June 29th, 2009

Q&A with our Yogini of the Month!

DB: First of all, I want to let Vicente know his reign as Student of the Month is now over! It is all mine now!!! Brahahahaha

BY: How long have you done Bikram Yoga?
DB: 3 years

BY: Why did you come in?
DB: My friend kept pushing me and pushing me. I told her I didn’t like to sweat. She told me it was different in there. I basically went to get her to stop pestering me. I was hooked my first class! I remember at the end of that first class, she looked back at me to make sure I didn’t hate her. I had a big smile on my face. I was sold!

BY: What is your favorite part of Bikram?
DB: I love that every class is different. It has never stopped being a challenge. I love that the room is full of all sorts of people-lawyers, doctors, students-and we’re all equal. We’re all just trying to survive the class.

BY: Have you experienced any physical benefits from your practice?
DB: Omigod! Where do I start?! My body completely transformed over these last three years. Every muscle I have now is thanks to Bikram yoga. It has done for me what no other exercise could have done.

I was also amazed how it changed my eating habits, without me even having to really think about it. It was almost subconscious and natural. I just didn’t want the fried or greasy foods anymore. When you feel what that kind of food does to your body in that heat, you just can’t eat like you used to. I also started looking at food not just for is it not bad for me (low fat, low calories) but what will it give me (vitamins, minerals, whole foods)

BY: Any emotional or other benefits?
DB: I have developed a much closer connection with my body. I have learned to breathe through difficult situations. I’ve also learned that my mind can blow situations way out of proportion. My mind is the hardest muscle to control for me. It makes or breaks a class. I find that if I just stay in the moment and remain calm, I do so much better-in yoga and in life.

BY: How often do you practice?
DB: 4-5 times a week

BY: What was your exercise background before Bikram?
DB: I did yoga with video at home for years. I also went through a gym phase. I found the gym overwhelming and I felt like I never got the results I wanted. I also didn’t like the atmosphere at gyms. Too cold and impersonal.

BY: Where are you from?
DB: I’m from here. I’ve rarely even been out of Texas. I like the idea of traveling, just not the action of it.

BY: What else would you like to share about your experience at Bikram San Antonio?
DB: I know it’s been said before, and it must sound like hyperbole to anyone not doing the yoga, but it has truly changed my life. I will never move more than a 10 minute drive from a studio. I can’t imagine not doing this yoga. I feel at home with my fellow yogis. Sometimes I go into the class smiling, truly grateful to be surrounded by such loving and interesting people. I feel a part of this yogi community. You must admit, it takes a special environment where everyone can feel so comfortable around half-naked, sweaty people. It’s freeing.

BY: Tell us about your special diet!
DB: About a year and a half ago, I had hit a plateau. I was eating pretty healthy, but I couldn’t lose any more weight. I remember a nutritionist saying several years back that it was her belief humans weren’t meant to eat grains. According to her theory, we’re built to be hunter/gatherers. I figured, why not? I gave up flour and all grains. Breakfast was a little tricky (no oatmeal or cereal). That was solved with a yummy shake. I eat lots of vegetables, fruits, nuts, meat. I don’t know how much weight I lost (scales are evil), but I know I lost 3 dress sizes. It’s made it so easy. I just have one rule that I absolutely must follow-no grains. It’s not the Atkins plan. I think I blow that plan by breakfast. I’ve noticed not only the weight loss, but also the increase in energy. I don’t feel as sleepy after I eat.

BY: Thanks Dawn, we love having you here!

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