Lisa Brown

Hi everyone. Meet Lisa. She's from California and she practices at Bikram Yoga La Jolla and Bikram Yoga Encinitas.

Hey Lisa. How did you learn about Bikram Yoga?
My sister told me about it a few years ago, and when I finally decided to try it, I went with my son and his girlfriend.

What was your first class like?
Many of the postures were very difficult for me, but some felt really good. I liked some postures, and didn't like others. I kept watching the clock, hoping it would soon be over. But then when it was, I felt so amazing afterwards.

The first class is specially tough because you don't know what to expect, or when it will be over! I can understand that. What ultimately made you come back?
The second class was free and, well, I really liked how I felt afterwards.

It's funny, but that's also why I came back. I remember having payed 10 pounds for 10 days at Bikram Yoga Fulham and intended on getting my money's worth. Little did I know that it was the best 10 pounds I'll ever spend! But what kept you coming, even after your intro week was over?
I liked seeing my progress, every day I was getting better. I like that I am investing time into myself, knowing I am doing something so wonderful for my body. My mood is elevated. My thoughts are positive. My skin looks better. I sleep better. I drink lots of water. I crave healthy foods. I like that the whites of my eyes are very bright. I feel stronger and I stand up straighter.  It's only been five days of the challenge!

Yes, the challenge! What motivated you to do it?
I felt inspired. My boyfriends bought me a 30-day unlimited pass and I thought I would put it to good use. He is doing the challenge with me.

That's so fantastic! And as you go through your challenge, what is helping you stay inspired and motivated?
I would like to be able to do every pose correctly. I would like to feel and look stronger, leaner and healthier.

I really love that you said that. To do the pose "correctly" is so much more important than doing it "perfectly". I always like to tell my students that alignment and form is so much more important than depth. When you are consistent and you try the right way, you will always get the benefits. Are there any postures in particular that you'd like to learn?
Yes. Janushirasana with Paschimotthanasana. It's the one I'm not as good at. But I am sure as I near the 30 day challenge I will be much better and learn to like it.

Always make sure that in the third part of the posture, when you grab the toes, to learn to stretch your legs first. In other words, the knees must be locked and the heels should come off the floor first, before you bend your elbows down, and eventually pull your body forward till the forehead touches the feet. But yes, one step and one day at a time. Thanks so much for sharing and please tell your boyfriend that I think he is brilliant for having given you this gift!

---