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After your first Bikram class, what was your impression? |
What drives you to continue to practice? What keeps bringing you back? |
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Going into my first class, I knew what to expect. I had been working third shift and listening to DJ Joey Reynolds on AM radio from midnight to 5am. Half of his show, it seemed, was dedicated to speaking about his relationship with Bikram Choudhury, and how his yoga had changed his life. I grew more interested as time went on, and wanted to see if a local studio existed. I was pleased to find Bikram Yoga Portsmouth (as I was certain there wouldn't be a studio closer than Boston). I knew that getting through the first class was not going to be easy, but I read the website and felt prepared. It was hot!
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My real issue is a pinched nerve that causes my right hip joint to seize up, after I sustained an injury as a child. I was an avid skiier/snowboarder, skater, and equestrian for over 25 years. After sitting at my computer, sitting down for a movie, or taking a long drive or flight, a burning pain erupts in my hip joint and inner thigh. After some doctors saying I needed surgery on my hip and others saying it was a back problem, I decided to try out alternative remedies. Bikram Yoga is the only thing that has ever worked after all these years. The issue isn't completely gone, but it has greatly diminished. When I am away from practice for a long period, the pain creeps back and tells me it's time to get back to Bikram.
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What are some of the benefits and changes you've seen in yourself?
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What is your favorite posture in the series and why? |
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I've lost about 25 pounds since I began practicing 3 years ago, but that was a nice side-effect. My tight skier and equestrian quads are finally starting to stretch. My back muscles and vertebrae love the feel of being stretched after compression from sitting all day. I have learned to relax outside of the yoga studio by doing a few simple physical poses, and mental tasks that the instructors have taught me. Also, I sing with two local groups, and my breath control is incredible now after taking Bikram. It sounds crazy, but I have a wider vocal range and I know how to sustain sound better than I have my whole life.
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I love the backward bend in Half Moon, because I do it well and it feels the best after leaning forward all day. And I love toe stand because I'll spend the rest of my life trying to stand up on that darn big toe...and it's fun.
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What is your greatest challenge about the yoga? Yourself? |
What advice can you give to a 1st timer after they complete the class? |
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The biggest challenge is getting to class on a consistent basis. I balance running a small business with being home for my family and dog. We just bought a house and I am involved in several local groups. It's tough stealing away for a yoga facial! The best thing I could do was put it in my daily calendar, and if I miss a class, it's like missing an appointment with a client.
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The heat, the pain, the quivering muscles - forget about it. It's mind over matter. You need to become strong mentally or the else the physical greatness you are trying to achieve will not happen. Whether you are there to lose a few pounds, become stronger, or to relieve stress, you need to stay focused. If you are looking to relax, grab a massage or spend a few hours at the spa.
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Is there anything you would like to add? |
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I love sneeking a peak at the experienced yogis during class. Their poses are so beautiful. I know my body shape and strength is very different from theirs, but I try to mimic their balance and serenity during the toughest poses.
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Schedule Notes |
30-day challenge starts September 1st.
Labor Day: 7 am Advanced, 9 am Beginner's Class only.
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For the latest holiday and emergency weather cancellations, join our email list or call the studio and press #2.
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New Students |
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Special Price
First 10 Consecutive Days, Unlimited Yoga Only $10
Come to any class, any time.
Directions to the Studio
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