December, 2003
Each of us, at one point or the other, has noticed Maria Frantz. She is that graceful, strong woman whom we have all admired because she has no problem staying up with the class and strictly following the dialogue—-until her belly get in the way (at which point she moves into a more “belly friendly” asana and continues to execute it with her usual grace and strength). This writer (having myself been a pregnant woman who could barely shuffle swollen legs from house to car)_finds Maria, now eight months pregnant, nothing short of phenomenal.
Maria started attending classes shortly after the opening of Robin’s studio five years ago. Her practice came to a halt, however, after getting pregnant with her first child. Two-and-a-half years and two kids later, Maria returned to the studio hoping to heal her back, probably brought on by the physical and emotional demands of the motherhood. Practicing Bikram’s on regular basis, Maria healed her back and decided that despite her third pregnancy, she was not going to stop her practice. “I didn’t want to stop,” Maria said. “I knew if I did, my back would most likely go out on me again.” Besides, she said, “I had made a commitment to practice as a part of my lifestyle.”
Since getting her doctor’s go-ahead, Maria has been practicing three times a week during her entire pregnancy. She claims that the typical problems associated with pregnancy haven’t bothered her —no back problems, no aching, and no swelling. (In addition, she looks unbelievably healthy, fit and beautiful!)
Already being the busy mother of two children, and working part-time, she has appreciated the time Bikram’s has given her to focus and reflect on herself and her new baby. During her practice she says she feels more “connected” with the new life inside her. It has also helped her to process the stress of raising youngsters while being pregnant and working. “I am much more relaxed at home if I have this time to myself.”
Maria has full intentions of returning to Bikram’s after delivering. In fact, she says, “It’s going to be even more important for me to make time after the third.” We all look forward to welcoming her —with news of her new family member—-back..