Susan (40 years old)
I was diagnosed with a degenerating lower disc in my 20's and was told that the effects of pain, muscle spasms, etc. would only get worse as I got older. They encouraged exercise to strengthen my abdominal and lower back muscles.
It wasn't until I began hot yoga in January 2002 that I have experienced a year free form monthly pain, ice compresses, and muscle relaxers. Even when lower back pain flares, my recovery is quick and the yoga always helps to relieve the pain. I feel enthused and excited that I have found an exercise and practice that helps me both physically and mentally.
Mark (64 years old)
I was born with hydrocephalus ("water on the brain" caused by spinal fluid entering the cranium and not being able to flow back into the spine.) Throught my life I've dealt with minimal balance and coordination, lack of depth perception and having a very large head (about a size 9 - if there were such a thing).
I started taking hot yoga classes in October 2002. In less tan three weeks of classes, I noticed a significant improvement in my ability to stand, walk and negotiate stairs. This represents a truly remarkable, nearly miraculous, improvement in my physical being, for which I am willing to credit yoga.
Patti (35 years old)
I found yoga, not because of a preexisting injury, rather to find balance between the demands of my personal and professional lives.
Last year, I began practicing yoga with Lori. She is an outstanding instructor who knows every students by name (she even speaks Spanish) and coaches everyone towards feeling the full benefits of each pose. Through sustained practice, I have gained tremendous strength, flexibility and calmness (which, by the way, resulted in a more sculpted figure!) My stress level has reduced substantially, my breathing is more regular and I have learned how to better manage the energy in my body.
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