Dale Londos

Please tell us a little about yourself.

Former mechanical/software engineer turned bodyworker. Ran track at UT and competed in middle distance and triathlon semi-professionally. I do injury treatment for university and post-collegiate athletes using Active Release Techniques (ART) and deep massage. Love helping people heal and get back to expressing themselves through their sport. Moved back home to San Antonio in 2007 after a couple of decades in San Francisco and Eugene, OR. Love the TX heat and humidity!

What brought you to the Bikram yoga practice?

Both Stevan Falk and Lisa Ingle came in to try a treatment last summer. Steve got me thinking and Lisa was even more persuasive of course! Had my first class with Lisa instructing and loved it.

How often do you practice?

Over the winter was practicing pretty much every day– did a 120 day challenge. Once my University track season work got going and traveling with the teams on the weekends a bunch, cut back to about 3 or 4 times a week.

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

Was fortunate to not have major injuries from running and triathlon, along with 10+ years practicing deep tissue massage (thanks in part to receiving good deep massage and doing plenty of self-treatment similar to what Steve Falk teaches). Was, however, very tight especially in the hips, front of the body in general and had horrible back extension. My forearms, elbows and shoulders were also tight thanks to my profession.

What are the greatest benefits of your practice?

My knees/hips/hip flexors, back extension, chest and shoulder/elbow flexibility have come a looong way in less than a year with Bikram yoga. Feel stronger and i have more endurance giving ART and massage treatments thanks to the flexibility and strength in the elbows, forearms and wrists. Can work a 12 hour day and survive!

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

I do feel a calmer perspective. When potentially stressful situations arise, i think back to the concept of what we can handle in the Hot room with all that coming at us. Also, this practice has helped heal the toll i took on my nervous system training for running and triathlon while doing lots of demanding physical massage.

What is your favorite part of Bikram yoga?

The physical and emotional rush similar to a hard run interval workout! The love and acceptance of the instructors and students for everyone who comes in the Hot room. Also, the never ending challenge to keep improving the postures and the stillness in-between!