Community

Claudia Skocpol
Studio: Arlington

Four months ago my life changed. The exact date of that change was May 15, 2011; my first Bikram yoga class. Let me tell you about this change, a change that is simultaneously miraculous and achievable!

I attended that first class encumbered with an extra 20 pounds from poor eating habits, chronic Sciatica radiating down to my ankle caused by Spinal Degenerative Arthritis, challenges with low blood sugar, worn out knee joints, etc. You get the picture… a typical portrait of a middle aged, carb addicted American woman you see in the snack aisle choosing something to go with the diet soda.

My son, Peter, and his girlfriend, Fay, avid Bikram enthusiasts in Austin, visited and invited me to come with them to a class at the Arlington studio. Like an interested Mom, I went to share in their experience, not realizing that it was to become a major experience for me. I was glad the hot air gently moved in the room, and attempted a few poses, but mainly watched the kids, with pride. After the class, I decided to continue, having faith that Bikram Yoga would help alleviate my painful Sciatica. Here is the miraculous part: The Sciatic pain completely ended within two weeks of classes, attending every other day!! Those used knee joints are 100% better and I feel and move the way I did 20 years ago.

No less amazing, Bikram yoga has effected dietary changes towards very healthy eating. I simply desire healthy foods, resulting in weight loss.  It just gets better and better.

At this point my Bikram experience is focused on the unity of body, mind and spirit while in class.  My goal is to focus on calmness, breathing, gentle movement and responding to my body’s signals. For me, Bikram Yoga is more than an achievable change in order to be healthy, it is a miraculous change that contributes and ministers to all areas of life.