Alice Kozel

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!!