Michael Cluer

Michael, a Southern Idaho native, practices at the studio in Park Slope.

Okay, Michael, tell me. Tell me about that fateful first class. What was it like for you?  

I took my first class nearly 10 years ago in Seattle. I had a fairly solid yoga practice going on but nothing like the shock of Bikram. It was my friend Jeremy who took me there, whom I really trust, as he is a former dancer and a great connoisseur of fitness regimes. That was in 1997. In short, I was afraid of Bikram until last November when I really wanted to get in shape. Hey, it's doing the trick.

Yeah, Bikram is rather shocking at first. And what has prompted you to do the challenge now?

Well, I already did a 30DC in March. People didn't recognize me, they had to do a double-take. I felt so amazing and, well, I want to look good in the beach this summer.

When people stop recognizing you, you know what you're dealing with is more than just a hot room and 26 postures. This stuff is pretty powerful. Why are you doing it a second time?

I love this practice. Mostly, I love the feeling of balance and quietude before/during/after the practice. I just feel that the challenge is an amazing way to keep up the momentum. It feels awesome, you know? Plus, I'm sleeping and worrying so much less these days. It's incredible.

BIkram is always reminding us how he only sleeps 2 hours every night. He calls the practice a gas station for your body. You keep refueling it, you won't need much sleep. But hey, tell me. We all have issues in our tissues. What are the things that you are working with, or through rather, in your practice?

I have sciatica, and I definitely feel an imbalance in my body. The right side of my body is so much stronger than my left side. It feels awkward. I have a feeling it's from my years as a figure skater.

Oh my goodness, I just caught bits and pieces of Blades of Glory the other day! Which outfit did you dig the most, the fire or the ice?

Ugh skating! So hard on your body! My favorite move was the Ina Bauer. I had an amazing Ina Bauer into a double Solkow. Once a coach made me wear these horrible pink and green samba sleeves for a performance. I hated that. I was definitely a fan of the "ice" costume in Blades of Glory.

Haha! And speaking of favorites, which is your favorite posture?
My favorite posture is triangle. It's still really challenging, but it feels amazing too. I also love the beginning breathing exercise. Least favorite would have to be standing head to leg pose. It's extra challenging for me.

Sweet. Any last words? Any goals you wish to throw out into the universe? Speak now, or "forever hold your standing bow".

My reasons are multifold. To be healthier, to look great, to feel better about my self, my body, my life. To practice commitment to my health/body/sanity. To  cultivate stillness and endurance. To be part of the yoga community.


Those are all beautiful intentions. Especially that of becoming part of the community. This challenge totally brings you closer to the practice, as well as to those who love the practice just as much. Have fun!

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