I began doing Bikram yoga only in July of this year ('06) (It's November now, so approx. 4 and a half months). From the very start I was pretty consistant about coming (4-5 times a week). The warmth of the room was so appealing, even in the thick of summer. Every class gave me a thorough feeling of having worked out all my muscles from the inside out. Now I can't imagine life without Bikram yoga.

I just completed the 30-day challenge (30 classes in a row or a double here and there - I actually did a triple one day to make up for two that I had missed and found that it wasn't too difficult). The comaraderie with the others who were also doing the challenge was a lot of fun. Coming out of the studio today to Pubali holding a sign saying Congratulations Challengers was very rewarding. It's good to be acknowledged for hard work and dedication! (I think we are all kids are heart!)

Before beginning Bikram in July, I didn't have any health issues, but I was feeling the usual onset of middle-age aches and pains and tension in the lower neck and lower back. I needed something and my 4 mile walks weren't doing it for me. I wasn't sleeping soundly through the whole night. Now, however, I can honestly say, that those pains are gone and the only trouble I have sleeping is the occassional sore gluts or hamstrings because I didn't breathe enough through the postures or because I pushed myself -a good pain. I have a really deep, wonderful sleep every night, now.

The time commitment to do the hour and half Bikram workout plus getting there and back, is so worth it to me because, not only do I feel better physically and am I sleeping better, I also feel better emotionally. I've always had a lot to be thankful for and this exercise makes me more aware of all the many blessings in my life. I feel more confident and happier, somehow. I'm less prone to anxiety and am just all-in-all more relaxed. Plus, my clothes fit really well. I've lost a good 10lbs since beginning- the last few coming off during this challenge. That's definitely an added benefit!

Maeghan (just lover her!) and Heather and Ariel are wonderful teachers and Glen, too (I have his class less often) and I am so thankful to Pubali for opening this studio. Everyone is so nurturing and encouraging and supportive. Thanks to all of you!