Andy Morales

andy morales - 0ct 09Tell 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.