Mary Borden

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!