Meet Thavma's Thavma Yoga's Lakewood Ranch Student of the Month : Mark Ribeiro

Meet Thavma’s Thavma Yoga’s Lakewood Ranch Student of the Month : Mark Ribeiro

August 17, 2018

Student of the Month, Thavma Blog, Thavma Yoga

Tell us a little about yourself?

I grew up in Brazil, where my family is originally from and returned to the U.S. in 1991. I have been working at the Sheriff’s Office since 1999 and I’m currently assigned to the Marine Unit.

Have you done other styles of Yoga other than Thavma Yoga?

I have never practiced any other style of yoga besides Bikram.

What made you decide to take your first Thavma Yoga Class?

I decided to practice yoga to improve my flexibility for back pain relief, and an alternative for low impact cardio.

Why did you choose Thavma Yoga as your Studio?

I chose Thavma Yoga because I live in the area and it offered the type of yoga recommended.

What was your first thavma yoga experience like?

It was an eye opener…much more challenging than I expected, and hot. It was my first yoga practice and I decided to take the 90 minute class. I did my best. Time flew by and at the end of the class I felt relaxed with a sense of accomplishment.

What makes you come back?

After my first class I noticed a big difference in my back pain and how well I slept that night. I have had the same result after every practice and noticed longer periods of time without pain.

How long have you been practicing?

I have been practicing for approximately 6 months.

What CHANGES HAVE YOU SEEN SINCE YOU beGAN THE PRACTICE?

I have seen improvements in my strength, flexibility, endurance, balance and noticed corrections to my body’s alignment.

Where have you seen that it helps you?

I believe that practicing yoga helps me by getting several benefits. Heavy sweating helps flush toxins. The heat relaxes muscles, allowing me to go deeper and safely into the postures for a better stretch. The heat also elevates my heart rate making my body work harder. I’m developing strength, flexibility and tone along with a cardiovascular workout. I’m also improving my breathing and developing better mental concentration.
The connection of body and mind.

What is your Favorite Pose?

I have a few but Triangle Pose is my favorite. I feel that this pose challenges me and requires total concentration.

What is your least favorite pose?

Half moon hands to feet.

wHAT DO YOU LIKE MOST ABOUT THAVMA BIKRAM YOGA?

The teachers, the positive and supportive environment, the studio and the choices of classes available.

tELL US SOMETHING INSPIRATIONAL THAT YOU HAVE FELT OR ACCOMPLISHED SINCE STARTING THAVMA YOGA.

I started practicing yoga in the hope of healing my body, but found it to be much more than that as I continued to practice, it is total body and soul experience.