1. Tell us a little about yourself?

I’m a passionate Christ follower, blessed wife, mommy of two (with one on the way), Nurse Practitioner, and lover of Bikram Yoga!

2. Have you done other styles of Yoga other than Bikram Yoga? If so which styles?

In truth, this is the first (and only) style of yoga that I have ever tried.  I fell in love almost immediately!

3. What made you decide to take your first Bikram Class?

When I was in the throes of my doctorate degree, I was invited by a friend to try it.  In the past, I had focused on kick-boxing, spin classes, and high-impact cardio to meet my cardiovascular/exercise needs.  While they are all great work-outs, nothing quite compares to this.  Not even close.

4. Why did you choose Thavma Bikram Yoga Studio?

I was looking for a studio closer to home and stumbled upon this gem.  The staff is incredible, the facility is exceptional, and the classes are always a challenge.  Marina is a beautiful soul – inside and out.  She is passionate about excellence and equally passionate about people.  I cannot say enough wonderful things about this studio and her leadership.

5. What was your first Bikram yoga experience like?

My first experience was a memorable one.  It brought to light areas of my life and body that needed focus.  I am a type-A, constantly going, rarely taking a moment for quiet type of gal.  My first class showed me just how out-of-control I was over my body and mind in uncomfortable situations.  It challenged me to focus on those areas and reminded me that perfection is not what I should be focused on.  It taught me to stop beating myself up for what I couldn’t do and push myself to get uncomfortable, get vulnerable, get sweaty, and get re-aligned.  It was beautiful and scary and exhilarating all at once.

6. What makes you come back?

Everything about this practice keeps me coming back.  In those 90 minutes, I learn to maintain focus, to push deeper, to trust the process, and not sweat (haha) the small stuff.

7. How long have you been practicing?

Consistently, I have been practicing for just over a year.

8. What changes have you seen since you began the practice?

It’s amazing the changes I have seen in such a short time – and the cool part is, others see it too.  I used to need neuromuscular massage often for neck, back, and hip pain.  No longer!  My posture is different.  I breathe differently.  I am stronger.  I am more focused.  I am healthier.  I am pain free!  I am lighter!

9. Where have you seen that it helps you?

My balance is substantially better since beginning this practice. I am stronger and healthier.  My practice keeps improving and, with every class, I am able to go deeper into the postures.  I also find that my body craves the right kinds of foods (and the right amounts)!  I am more mindful of my posture and my surroundings.  I stress less and breathe much more deeply than I used to.  I have also lost 10 pounds since starting this practice.

10. What is your Favorite pose?

It’s a tie between Dandayamana-Dhanurasana (Standing Bow Pose) and Trikanasana (Triangle Pose).

11. What is your least favorite pose?

Probably the most challenging postures for me are Garurasana (Eagle Pose) and Salabhasana (Locust Pose) – I’m working on making them my favorites as Marina always says!

12. What do you like most about Thavma Bikram Yoga?  

E V E R Y T H I N G.  The people.  The studio.  The practice.  I am their biggest fan!