What brought you to Bikram Yoga?
I was diagnosed with breast cancer at age 55. I think the combination of the diagnosis and the changes in your body that occur when you reach middle age were motivation enough for me to find something that helped me mentally and physically.
What did you get from yoga practice that you were not expecting?
I had always been an enthusiast of exercise but I had no idea that Bikram yoga would provide a more intense whole body workout than my 2 hour workout at the gym and produce better results.
Why do you think it’s important for someone your age to maintain a consistent practice?
I understand the challenges of getting older and staying in good shape. Bikram Yoga has made my body healthier and more efficient. I still think young and I want to feel young. I never get tired of hearing “ you look great for your age”.
Why will you continue to practice yoga into your next decade?
I will continue to practice yoga to avoid that middle age spread and flabby arms. This practice has made me stronger, more flexible and toned. This yoga is just the best medicine and maintenance for me to live a long and healthy life. One of the things that comes to us without effort is old age. I want it to be just a number that I do not resemble.
What do you believe you could have avoided if you had started your practice sooner?
Maybe cancer? Who knows for sure? I think I take better care of myself and the loved ones around me since I started.
What advice do you have for new students or people who haven’t tried Bikram Yoga yet?
It doesn’t matter how old you are when you start. I am proof of that. You only have to have the desire to improve your life. Embrace the heat. Don’t get discouraged, it is not a competition and just always try to do your best. I have met some really great people at the studio. Some that struggle like me and others that are so inspirational it lifts me up to be sharing the room with them.
