Carin

I stepped inside the coffee shop where Carin and I were supposed to meet. Carin had expressed interest in doing the challenge several weeks ago, but predicament after predicament impeded us from actually meeting until now, one day after she had finished her challenge. I recall having seen her around the studio a few times, but little would prepare me for our encounter: I couldn't recognize the gorgeous woman standing before me in her green dress, with a huge smile on her face, paying for her coffee and asking me if I wanted anything.

You look happy, glowing, excited, and so healthy. It's quite amazing!
Thank you! I feel it - absolutely feel it.

Okay, let's take it back, because I want to hear all about your experience. How did Bikram come into your life?
It was about 2 years ago when I initially walked up the stairs to the Flatiron studio, and within 5 minutes I walked out. I’d practiced other forms of yoga for the previous 10 years, and had heard about Bikram. But when I walked up there and saw all the sweaty people hanging out in the hall in addition to feeling that heat emanating from the room, I felt the impulse to leave – and I did! I think more than anything, I wanted an excuse not to do it. I knew that it was challenging and at the time wasn’t ready to make the commitment just yet.

Yes, many people feel that way. As though they have to get in shape just to come to practice. So what made you come back?
I finally felt that I was ready to take it on. I wanted to tackle this with a 100% effort, and so kicked it off with the 30 Day Challenge.

That is so brilliant! I always describe the 30DC as an initiation to this lifetime practice. So tell me about your actual first class?
Well, I was surprised that my balance was as good as it was, because I’d assumed I’d have to refine it before developing postures. It wasn’t a problem at all. I loved the class – it all just clicked. That first night, I slept like a baby!

And you had to come back the next day, because you had committed to doing this for 30 days. So aside from finally feeling "ready", not only physically but also mentally, what intentions and desires kept you going till the end?
I wanted a new achievement in my life as well as had the desire to get back into shape. It was a perfect package of a both physical and mental challenge. So in other words, I wanted to both increase my mental acuity and reclaim my toned body. I like what I see in the mirror now! I’ve got the definition back in my abs and arms that I haven’t had since swimming two miles a day for many months 10 years ago.

Do you think you acomplished these goals though your challenge?
Absolutely - I feel incredible. I've lost inches and pounds, and am more energetic and focused. Internally I feel “cleaner” and I’m physically stronger.

That is a beautiful way to feel. Now that you have internalized the sequence and are familiar with the practice, what postures do you like and dislike the most?
Well, my favorite posture is Standing Bow. It’s such a beautiful pose and requires so much focus and concentration. My least favorite is camel. I have to learn to overcome the anxious feeling I get when practicing this pose – Its definitely my most challenging posture.

Well, camel is rather intense. Initially, it does feel scary, and in the end why would you do something that makes you feel completely out of sorts? But the truth is that it is an incredibly powerful posture filled with benefits, so if you stick to it you will day by day see the changes in your body, and every time it won't feel so overwhelming. Definetly stick with it. Do you see yourself practicing Bikram for a long time?
I've embraced it as part of my routine and part of my life. I’m trying to get my fiancé Steve to attend a class with me. He sees the changes in me and is extremely supportive. He is going to give a class a try soon.

Great! Bring him over. One class is all it takes! Thanks for sharing your story, Carin. Keep on strong, and have a fantastic wedding. Don't forget to bring Steve super soon.

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