Community

Alicia Poe
Studio: Grapevine

How long have you been practicing Bikram Yoga? 
I have been practicing Bikram yoga consistently since January 2010.

What was your life/body like before you started practicing Bikram Yoga? 
My life before yoga was fueled with stress. I had a difficult time managing my stress, which caused frequent anxiety attacks. Whenever I was stressed, it interfered with my happiness and well being. It caused my good eating habits and exercise routine to dissipate. Stress also negatively affected my attitude and the relationships around me. 

What motivated you to take your first class? 
While training for a marathon, I was attacked and bit by a stray dog. Running after that traumatic experience became stressful and anytime I heard a dog bark, my body went into fight or flight mode. It was not fun to say the least. I therefore decided I needed to find a new form of exercise, something preferably done inside.  I was invited to a Bikram yoga class by one of my friends, and unlike most people, I fell in love with it on my first class. I love to sweat, I love physical challenges and I love doing things that normal people wouldn’t think of doing. I knew right away that Bikram yoga was perfect for me.

How often do you practice?
I currently come everyday and try never to miss more than two days in a row. I finished a 60 day challenge last month and haven’t missed a day since. 

How has your life/body changed since you started practicing? 
Bikram brought back both purpose and meaning to my life. I learned to fuel my body with breaths instead of stress. If faced with a challenge that could trigger stress, I learned to stay present and just take a few deep breaths. Breathing helped me overcome the feeling of being overwhelmed. I now have less anxiety and don’t worry about the future as much. Physically, I am in the best shape of my life. Over the past summer my family and I took a hike up near Lake Tahoe, Rubicon Peak (9183 ft). Only three of us made it to the top, including myself leading the way. I wasn’t convinced until then how much Bikram yoga can strengthen your body and build endurance.

Is there anything else?
My favorite part of Bikram is being surrounded by unique people who come together with a unified purpose to improve the quality of their lives. I hope to provide a positive presence in and outside the yoga room.