Tell us a little bit about yourself. 

I was born in Rockford Illinois before God made dirt; married for 33 years with 3 great kids and 3 wonderful grandchildren. I've been a high school teacher/coach; worked ranches in Idaho and been a Manager in the Motion Control Industry for over 30 years- all in all an interesting and fulfilling career; hopefully one that continues for a number of years. 

What brought you to the Bikram yoga practice?

My daughter Sarah got introduced to Bikram Yoga by my nephew Derek. She became a Bikram teacher and actually went to the same training as Sandy. I took my first two classes while in Texas visiting Sarah; they were the two hardest work outs I had ever gone through- darn near passed out 3 or 4 times. 

I was having trouble with my achilles tendons (was a runner all my life) and a surgeon suggested surgery; Sarah recommended Bikram! She told me about Sandy in Oswego- that was approximately 3 years ago.  

How often do you practice?

My goal is to attend 2-3 classes per week schedule permitting. I drive from Watertown and am a little envious of yogis who live close to the studio.

What specific physical issues, if any, did you have before taking your first class? What changes have you seen/felt in your body- overall physical and general well- being?

In approximately 3 months my achilles tendons had improved; today I don't have any swelling or soreness. Previously I had a hard time walking when I first got out of bed in the morning- no such problems anymore. I've had lower back issues for almost 20 years and only used a chiropractor to deal with the pain; with Bikram my back issues have really dropped off and only occur when I do some stupid lifting by myself. If I do go to the Chiropractor my back usually slides back into place more easily.

What are the greatest benefits of your practice?

I think anytime you can do something for yourself that helps you out physically- to make you feel better about yourself, it not only helps your physical well-being but improves your emotional well-being and therefore leads to overall better health. I don't get nearly as many colds or head aches as I used to and believe it or not I do seem to have better energy- just not 3 minutes after class. 

How has this practice changed your health and life? Any emotional or other benefits?

I look forward to class and I look forward to seeing the new friends I've met through this practice. No matter how young or old, in shape or not, everyone who keeps coming back feels better about themselves- that's a miracle in my book.

What is your favorite part about Bikram Yoga Oswego?

I think the patient support for improvement over time has been important; every one of us is different and blessed with different skills. It has been humbling to be in a room with so many people who have so much better balance than me but the ongoing support of everyone keeps me coming back to 'try again'. 

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I'm blessed to have Katie, Sarah and Derek encouraging me to participate in Bikram Yoga and twice blessed to have the 'Elegant Bikram Yoga of Oswego' as my home base for training with wonderful teachers I now call my friends.