1. Tell us a little about yourself.

As an entrepreneur, I am always sitting in in meetings or in front of a PC screen. I’m fifty-two and work stress these days is tough. So, it’s easy to take my day home with me. I’m also a big stress eater. I have to be careful not to blow off exercise which is way too easy. I know I need to keep trying to find balance. I’ve been on a plant-based diet for about a year and a half. This along with my Bikram practice has made me more aware of how I treat my body. I’m trying cook whole foods and eat less processed foods, and keep kindness at the center of my life.

2. Have you done other styles of Yoga other than hot yoga at Thavma?

I have done yoga on and off for about 20 years. Mainly vinyasa flow styles… sun salutations, etc.

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

My brother who is a Naturopathic Physician told me about how he loved it. I tried a few classes with him… It was hard to even stay in the class. But I’m glad I went.

4. What made you choose Thavma Yoga as a Studio?

It took me some time after my first experience but I started to look for Bikram yoga and found Thavma Lakewood Ranch to be the most convenient.

5. What was your first Bikram yoga experience like?

I think I was in child’s pose most of the class. My mind was entirely on the door, “Why am I here?” But I did it… I stayed. A small victory but important one.

6. What makes you come back?

My spine and joints feel great after class… I’m tired but I feel energized. There are times when I’m in my car driving home and I have an overwhelming feeling of well-being. My lower back is warm, my head is clear. It’s wonderful!

7. How long have you been practicing?

I have been doing Thavma for about a year. When I travel, I try to hit other studios (Denver, Las Vegas, San Diego) and nothing compares. Other rooms are not as clean… I’ve seen weird rubber floors… Just not the same as Thavma.

8. What changes have you seen since you began the practice? Where have you seen that yoga helps you?

I’ve lost about 20 lbs. I have more energy. I’m really not doing other exercise, although I know I should. My plan is to add some weight training too.

9. What is your favorite pose?

I love tree pose! There is a true serenity when I’m standing tall and feeling steady and strong.

10. What is your least favorite pose?

I don’t have a least favorite pose but I’m always glad to have the spine strengthening series done. I know it’s good for building a strong lower back but when you do it right, lift those legs high, it gets the heart rate up pretty high.

11. What do you like most about Thavma Yoga?

I love the consistently high-quality teachers. They are eager to get you to the next level of practice but okay to move at the pace you’re ready for. I have come a long way but I have a long way to go.