1. Tell Us a little about yourself
I moved to Florida at age 13 from Illinois 33 years ago (do the math. Lol) I sustained a lumbar disc injury playing soccer in my early 20’s and since then experienced varying degrees of pain, disability, and use of medications. I am a Physical Therapist and I primarily treat geriatric clientele after injury, surgery or general decline so my job is very active. Progression of back pain led me to a CT scan, neurologist assessment, and a possible lumbar fusion. I wanted to avoid surgery and began researching yoga that could help heal the spine with strength and flexibility. I found the Bikram series mentioned frequently and Thavma was my local studio…. LUCKY ME!
2. Had you practiced yoga before coming to Thavma Bikram Yoga?
I practiced yoga via my extensive collection of books, DVDs and the occasional yoga flow class. Never Bikram….
3. What Made you decide to do the 30 Day Challenge?
I started Bikram at Thavma in late October 2014 and I was hooked. I felt like every class was an accomplishment and my body kept telling me to continue. The 30 day challenge seemed like a natural progression.
4. What did you want to accomplish from your 30 Day Challenge?? Did you achieve your goal?
My hope was to accomplish more spinal strength and continued reduced pain. I achieved this and then some….
5. What changes did you see during and after your 30 days of bikram yoga?
Changes… wow! Well, I lost 5 pounds and a total of 3 inches on hips, waist and thighs. In an attempt to stay hydrated and eat small meals throughout the day, my appetite has decreased! I am amazed. My communication skills to my patients have even improved. This may seem strange, but I find it easier to explain my thoughts and educate people on different levels. The major change is my back pain. I was used to taking pain meds, muscle relaxers and high doses of ibuprofen daily. Now, I don’t remember the last time I had to take an ibuprofen!!!
6. What did you learn/gain from doing Bikram yoga regularly?
I learned that every day is different. Just because your mind thinks you can doesn’t mean your body will cooperate that day… AND just when you think you can’t push any harder, you do! I try to set myself up for improvement in a specific posture each class to keep moving forward.
7. What did you love most from doing the Challenge?
The 30 day straight yoga-high ☺
8. What’s your favorite posture!?
I have a couple… Standing Bow is beautiful, challenging and rewarding. The Wheel is also a favorite because it reminds me of when I was a kid in gymnastics flipping back walkovers. Plus I cannot believe my back allows it!
9. What is your least favorite posture?
I must admit I do not like Eagle or Fixed Firm. I find it very hard to get my hips deep enough to keep the balance and the twisting in Eagle. My hips and knees revolt on the aggressive internal rotation in Fixed Firm. I find a little more each class, though!
10. What do you think about our Studio!?
Three words… classy, comfortable, and inspiring.
