Student of the Month June 2010
Tell us about yourself, Tim.
Most of my time is with my family and work. You might find me substituting as a catcher on my son’s softball team or babysitting my granddaughter. My latest interest is indoor rock climbing with friends from work. This activity requires some upper body strength, core strength, and surprisingly, lots of flexibility. Although I have a fear of heights, I wanted to challenge myself and utilize some yoga principles, especially the breathing, to help calm myself and focus.
How did you discover yoga?
After conversations with my niece, she thought I would enjoy Bikram yoga. With Being Yoga’s new location opening in fall 2007 and an aging / aching daily lower back pain, I attended the free class and was surprised with the immediate relief. By the end of 30 days, my body mechanics improved and my over all health was stronger. Pending a third knee procedure, I invested my time with yoga practice and avoided the surgery. My initial introduction to Bikram yoga from the teachers at Being Yoga was amazing then, as well as now. They are all friendly, supportive, non judgemental and express a genuine care for everyone’s well being.
Tell us about your yoga practice.
I mainly practice Bikram yoga because the back strengthening poses have been beneficial to my spine. I value the combination of the heated room and the postures because I feel it contributes to increased muscle tone and flexibility. My balancing poses are a challenge, but slowly improving. I give full credit to the teachers for their consistent teaching and detailed dialogue in enabling me to improve my practice every day, and giving me confidence in seeing the light at the end of the tunnel. Lately, with the added Yin classes, I’m able to define the poses and with the power of the breath. I have learned to appreciate, develop and relax into the poses rather than struggle. 3-4 x’s a week practice has been my general routine. Every time I go to yoga I treat it as an adventure – who knows what I’m going to learn or experience?
Why do you practice yoga?
I practice because I enjoy the physical benefits of the yoga. I’m learning to integrate the body and mind relationship by focusing more, staying in the present and allowing the breath to maintain internal peace. I’m astonished with my progress over the past two years and look forward to upcoming years, as yoga is in integral part of my life now. I believe longevity and yoga go hand in hand.
How has Being Yoga helped you on your journey?
My journey has just begun as I venture further into a new life style where yoga has had such a positive influence on my self awareness and well being. Being Yoga has helped me develop a strong foundation and given me a safe sanctuary to learn, explore and experience the essence of yoga. I always recommend yoga to my friends and family.
Any final words of wisdom for your fellow yogis?
Have patience with the poses, build a strong foundation, try to add one small change to your routine every week and practice with all the wonderful teachers at the studio.