Bikram Yoga San Antonio

Pamela Heard

lisa — Mon, 30 Apr 2012 17:19:10 +0000

Tell us a little bit about yourself.

I am a professional dancer/choreographer. After being a college professor for many years, I am now on the faculty of the professional academy, San Antonio School for the Performing Arts. I teach ballet, pointe, and Cunningham-informed modern dance, and choreograph for the resident company, Alamo City Dance Company. I hold an M.F.A. degree in Modern Dance Choreography and Performance from the University of Michigan, and a B.A. in English Literature with a concentration in Creative Writing. I am on the first re-write of a memoir for several literary agents, and am working on a volume of poetry. I have many diverse interests such as hiking and camping in the National Parks, shooting handguns (I own more than thirty), running marathons, crochet (really!) and dining….I am a real “Foodie”. I will never be set in my ways, and the day I don’t try something new will be the day that I pass on.

What brought you to the Bikram yoga practice?

I originally came to Bikram Yoga in Houston, through a friend and fellow dancer who was living with HIV with the help of his practice. When my dance program was shut down by the college, I moved to San Antonio and found that I finally had enough time for a regular Bikram Yoga practice. There is no loss without some gain!

How often do you practice?

I practice every day and sometimes twice a day!

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

When I began my practice at BYSA, I had a swelling injury behind my left knee that prevented me from sitting in fixed firm, and a painful tightness in my right leg that prevented stretching. I had had the latter for about four years. Happily, after just five months of Bikram Yoga, both conditions have resolved themselves!!

What are the greatest benefits of your practice?

The greatest single benefit of my practice is the inner calm I feel when dealing with the stresses of everyday life.

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

The practice has so improved my live, both physically and emotionally, that I am committed to attending the teacher training program in the fall, and making Bikram Yoga a large part of my life.

What is your favorite part of Bikram yoga?

My favorite part of Bikram Yoga is the feeling of “giving in” to the practice rather than trying too hard or forcing the poses. Everything comes with time. I really love all the shining people I have met through Bikram Yoga. It is good to be on the path with everyone here.

Lyndse Gonzal

lisa — Mon, 30 Apr 2012 14:52:33 +0000

Lyndse came to find this yoga when her Mom, Aunt and cousin decided to be a little adventurous and try this insane thing called Bikram Yoga. When she heard that her Mom loved working out in a hot room, sweating and working hard on crazy postures she just had to give it a go…because if Mom could do it, then she had to. That first class rocked her world. She couldn’t believe how intense it was but how good she felt after. It inspired her to do two 60 day challenges and sees another on the horizon. Bikram yoga has taught Lyndse a lot about herself and constantly learns new things every day. She finds that this yoga continues to help her physically, mentally and emotionally and believes everyone needs it.
Lyndse was born and raised in San Antonio, Texas. She graduated from Texas State University where she studied Spanish and Psychology. She love loves life and when possible likes to travel. Some of her favorite things include movies, martial arts, reading and listening to worship music.
She absolutely loves the BYSA family and feels super blessed to be around and practice with such beautiful and inspirational people every day. You can see her lovely smiling face behind the front desk often singing, laughing and dancing.

“In the middle of difficulty, lies opportunity.”
~Albert Einstein

Andrew Mattingly

lisa — Mon, 30 Apr 2012 14:51:44 +0000

Andrew grew up in Southern Maryland. In 2004 he graduated from Leonardtown High School and joined the World’s Finest Navy at the age 18. He spent 8 years in the Navy as an Oral Surgery Technician, traveling to Chicago, California, Haiti, and then finding San Antonio as his new home. During his time in the Navy he developed a strong passion for patient care and taking care of others. In the summer of 2011 he took his first Bikram Yoga class and his life hasn’t been the same since…

After his first class he knew that this Yoga was going to be a huge part of his life. He was inspired. Everything about the Yoga was the best from the vibe in the studio, to the instructors, and the fellow yogis. He knew BYSA was the place for him. It never ceases to amaze him, how great he feels after taking class. Physically, Mentally, and Emotionally.

Andrew feels so blessed to be part of the BYSA Family. He strives to bring out the best in everyone he meets. In the future, he plans to teach Bikram Yoga. He is really excited about it and can’t wait to bring people the same feeling that he has after every class. He also wants to pursue a degree in Physical Therapy and help bring health to others for the rest of his life. In his free time when he is not doing yoga of course, he loves to spend time with close friends and family. Anything athletic and outdoors you can count him in for.

“Thousands of candles can be lit from a single candle, and the life of the candle will not be shortened. Happiness never decreases by being shared” -Buddha

Caitlyn Geraci

lisa — Mon, 09 Apr 2012 15:54:53 +0000

Caitlyn is a native of San Antonio and loves being any place where you can see stars. At a young age she was quite hyperactive, which resulted in some fluke accidents and multiple stitches. Eventually all the crazy was knocked out and Caitlyn adopted a more mellow and peaceful attitude towards life. She is incredibly grateful to Bikram Yoga for reminding her to breathe on the daily, and renewing her relationship with her spine.

Caitlyn graduated from St. Mary’s University where she studied Psychology and spent two years researching marine mammals. She plans on attending graduate school in the future to study human beings. Besides being challenged academically, some of her favorite things include live music, loose-leaf tea, and visiting far away lands.

“feels like some kind of ride but it’s turning out just to be life going absolutely perfectly” -storypeople

Nate Valdez

lisa — Sun, 01 Apr 2012 18:30:49 +0000

Tell us a little bit about yourself.

I am originally from south Texas. I moved here to San Antonio a little over 3 years ago. I enjoy good weather, good food, and of course Bikram yoga.

What brought you to the Bikram yoga practice?

I started practicing Bikram Yoga by chance. A friend asked me to attend a class thinking I would enjoy it… And I did!!!!

How often do you practice?

I aim for 4 times a week, but I’ve been known to practice up to 10 times a week!

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

Well when I started I didn’t think I had any physical issues, now after practicing for 2 years, I realize my weight was a huge issue.

What are the greatest benefits of your practice?

I really enjoy the physicality of the practice. I always leave class thinking I have done so much good for my body both mentally and physically.

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

I have actually decided to dedicate my life to this practice. I am really looking forward to attending teacher training and traveling and instructing. This practice has brought so much good to my life; I really have yoga to thank for a lot.

What is your favorite part of Bikram yoga?

It is the best 90 minutes of my entire day: Mentally, physically, emotionally, and spiritually.

Laura Wood

lisa — Fri, 02 Mar 2012 04:28:10 +0000

Tell us a little bit about yourself.

I was born in Rome, NY, and graduated from Boston University 23 years ago with a degree in Physical Therapy. I LOVE being a Physical Therapist and specialize in treating patients with neurological disorders and amputation. I also perform therapy chart reviews for Medicare and Texas State Practice Act compliance. I have been married to the man of my dreams for 15years (who is quite the hottie, I might add), and together we have a precious eight-year-old son. We love to camp, fish, hike, swim and just hang out. Our faith in the Lord has been the glue that keeps our family strong.

What brought you the Bikram yoga practice?

I started going to BYSA when a friend of mine invited me. I agreed to go since I gave up running to try and protect my joints from the constant pounding.

How often do you practice?

I now practice 4-6 times per week, usually 5 times (all early morning classes).

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

I didn’t really have any physical issues before starting BYSA. I did lack flexibility and wanted a form of exercise I could do on a regular basis without causing repetitive trauma to my joints. After starting, I realized I was also not as strong as I thought I was. (I got MY huge slice of Humble Pie.)

What are the greatest benefits of you practice?

I have improved in my flexibility, strength and posture (my winging scapulae are not as pronounced as they use to be). I am still waiting for my “yoga butt”, though! Also, the sanity this yoga brings by allowing me to take early classes and get into town before traffic starts is PRICELESS!

What is your favorite part of Bikram yoga?

The teachers. The feedback they give, to help me improve is much appreciated, and the humor so many of them bring into class is awesome! (Who doesn’t love a good one liner at 5:30am?) I also love the students. I have met many wonderful people “suffering in silence” right alongside of me…no judgments, no competition, just occasional glances of support. Favorite postures: Standing Separate Leg Stretch…if I am lucky and touch my forehead to the floor, I get the coveted sweat-wipe while I’m there. Also, Balancing Stick…who doesn’t just LOVE a mini heart attack first thing in the morning?

Susan Diamond

lisa — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 17:04:53 +0000

Tell us a little bit about yourself.

I am a nephrologist (kidney doctor). I have been exercising before work almost daily for years. I used to run, including many marathons, but since I’ve been injured, I go to yoga. I have two daughters both living outside this country. One lives and works in London and the other is a Peace Corps volunteer in Guatemala.

What brought you to the Bikram yoga practice?

3 years ago, I came back from a 10 day cycling trip with lower back and hip pain. I could not do my usual exercise routine.

Resting and massage didn’t help. A massage therapist recommended yoga. I didn’t think I could do much without the heat, so I came to Bikram.

How often do you practice?

I try to practice 5-6 times a week.

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

It was mostly my back and hip pain which are much better now.

What are the greatest benefits of your practice?

My strength and flexibility have improved and I have been able to maintain some degree of conditioning in spite of no longer running.

The surprising benefit though is how much more calm I am.

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

I am more relaxed and less judgmental of myself and others.

What is your favorite part of Bikram yoga?

My favorite part is having it done for the day and how good I feel regardless of how much I could do during the class.

I am thankful for having found this yoga and for all the teachers that make it possible.

Stacy O’Leary

lisa — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 03:15:36 +0000

Please tell us a little about yourself.

I am from St. Louis, Missouri and I moved to San Antonio in 2002 to attend Trinity University. I majored in Spanish and International Studies, and was lucky enough to study in Spain for a semester and I cannot wait to go back! I have always loved sports and I played soccer for two years in college. I recently got engaged to Mitch Walker, with whom I completed the 60 day challenge in November, and I’m lucky to have him. I work at Airrosti Rehab Centers and I absolutely love my job. My family still lives in St. Louis and I love going back to visit whenever I can. I have two children (who happen to be dogs) named Baxter and Mona.

2. What brought you to the Bikram yoga practice?

Mitch did. Steve was Mitch’s strength and conditioning coach in college and he was introduced to the yoga that way. After college, Mitch suggested I try it, so I did. Initially I loved it and thought it would fit in as a great new work out. Little did I know it would end up being way more than just a work out for me. It took a couple years of practicing the yoga for just a month or two at a time before I realized I needed it in my life on a regular basis. I started practicing more regularly and last April, Mitch got me a year membership for my birthday. What an amazing gift!!

3. How often do you practice?

Usually about five times a week. I basically practice every day that it’s possible. Unless I just can’t make it happen, I will be there. Crazy things happen to you when you miss too much yoga.

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

Luckily, I did not have any major issues before starting the yoga. The main thing I have battled since I’ve been practicing regularly is tightness from too many years of running, playing sports, and weightlifting. I’m currently working through those little by little and really enjoying watching the yoga change me for the better. My body just feels healthier and happier when practice regularly.

5. What are the greatest benefits of you practice?

EVERYTHING! I’m happier, I’m healthier, and I’m nicer to people. My relationships are better, I’m more patient, I feel good. I started the yoga as a new way to work out, and while it definitely functions as a work out, I am amazed every day at everything else it provides for my life. I can’t imagine my life without it.

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

Bikram Yoga is absolutely amazing. It changes every aspect of your life for the better… if you let it. The hot room can teach you so much about yourself. It will teach you to love and accept yourself for who you are, while constantly working to be better. The yoga teaches you to breathe and relax no matter what is going on around you, and although I’m still working to master this, it has without a doubt affected the way I carry myself every day. It also makes me take better care of myself in a variety of different ways. The hot room will let you know if you are not treating your body right. The yoga has opened my eyes in so many ways and I am forever grateful.

7. What is your favorite part of Bikram yoga?

My favorite part of the yoga is impossible to put into words. There is no favorite part… I love everything about the yoga, even the parts I hate. It is constantly pushing me to challenge myself in physical, emotional, and mental ways. It pushes me to try new things, accept what comes, and do good. It is inspiring and there is nothing like it. Casey Urban always starts class by saying, “No judgments, no expectations,” and it makes me smile every time because that is the hot room – you do what you can, you kill yourself trying, and you accept that each day is different – it is a beautiful thing when you can truly believe that.

Also, the community at BYSA is one of a kind. I look forward to class every day not only for what the yoga does and how it makes me feel, but because of what each and every person at this studio has to offer. It is refreshing to be around such wonderful people every day.

Kate Davies

lisa — Mon, 05 Dec 2011 21:58:50 +0000

Kate grew up in New York and attended Trinity University, where she majored in Classical Studies and Spanish. She was lucky enough to find Bikram Yoga during her first semester of college. Kate has practiced consistently over the past 7 years while living in 4 countries. She loves the physical and mental flexibility yoga has given her.

After graduating, Kate moved abroad for three years. She spent the first two in Beijing, China, where she taught English to high school students and adults. She then moved to Bangkok to teach Kindergarten at an international school. Kate loves the challenge and excitement of traveling. She is excited to share her experiences with the BYSA community.

During her free time, Kate enjoys cooking, playing violin, listening to jazz and hip-hop, and reading.

“Life is so uncertain: you never know what could happen. One way to deal with that is to keep your pajamas washed.”

- Haruki Murakami

Edward Jones

lisa — Wed, 30 Nov 2011 17:53:19 +0000

Tell us a little bit about yourself.

I was born and raised in Natchez, Mississippi. The 5th of 6 children to a single mother, my Shero, Josephine Jones. I am the Performance Director for Tops in Blue, the Air Force’s Expeditionary Entertainers. I have lived in San Antonio for 7 ½ years. I moved here from New York City in April of 2004. I love to travel and spend quality time with friends. One of my favorite things in the world to do is LAUGH!!! I LOVE LIFE and have a true passion for living…not existing…LIVING!!

What brought you to the Bikram yoga practice?

Honestly, I was at a Japanese restaurant waiting for a meal “to go”. While waiting I walked next door to a Vitamin Store. While there I picked up a local paper and started flipping through it. A writer for the paper had attended a Bikram Yoga class and wrote a very extensive article about his experience. He spoke about how hot it was and how difficult it was and immediately I wanted to try it…and that I did!! Lisa was my first instructor and Steve my second I’ve been hooked ever since!

How often do you practice?

Well, I just finished my 60 day challenge in 56 days!!! And I just started the Turkey Clause Challenge, so right now I am practicing EVERYDAY and LOVING it!!

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

I suffer(ed) from Cluster Headaches which are debilitating when I have them. The Yoga has really taught me to get as calm as I can, get as quiet as I can and simply breathe. It definitely helps! Also, tight hips, lower back and shoulders from playing tennis and running track for so many years.

What are the greatest benefits of your practice?

Learning to stay calm and understanding that EVERYTHING IS NOT A CRISIS!! We seem to get so amped up about things that don’t really matter in the GRAND SCHEME of life…my newest motto…”It’s just not that serious…” it really keeps things in their proper place. The way I react to a person or an issue says more about me than the person of the issue.

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

It has really taught me to take care of myself better and even put myself first again. I spent a lot of years really focusing on work and others and I was slowly getting lost in the mix of it all. While doing the 60 day challenge, in order to do all of my classes I had to start practicing at 0530, 0545 and 0600 and I noticed that I was having some very energetic days because of it. Taking care of myself before doing anything else in the day made all the difference in the world. I am also more patient with myself and more forgiving of myself…always moving forward. “It ain’t that serious…you fell out of the posture…get back in and keep going.”

What is your favorite part of Bikram yoga?

I LOVE TO SWEAT!! I LOVE the peace it brings. I LOVE the discipline practiced inside the room that helps you outside of the room. I LOVE the amazing friendships I have made and the great support from my fellow yogis. AND, the fact that I work SO hard and get immediate benefits! I am thankful to God for bringing me to this practice. I am a better man for it and I am thankful that Steve and Lisa have worked so hard to create such a great environment for us all to practice in!!

AND LET THE RECORD SHOW…I HAVE NOT GIVEN UP ON MY DREAM TO ONE DAY BE A BIKRAM YOGA INSTURCTOR!