Bikram Yoga - My Lifeline
4 weeks ago today I was told I have cancer.
3 weeks ago I had surgery to remove it & to test my lymph nodes.
Today I returned to my “religion” & the only exercise I’ll ever need: Bikram Yoga.
My last class was 6/11.
To say the least, I was nervous to go back. Though I needed to be there, I knew it would be an emotional return; and, I worried about what my instructors & classmates would think:
- would they notice the scar under my arm?
- would they judge me for not doing all the postures 100%?
- would those who already know look at me or treat me differently?
- what if I start crying??????
As I pulled into the parking lot with tears streaming down my face, I sent a text message to my friend & owner of the Bikram studio, expressing some of my fears. She responded with words of encouragement & reminded me to believe in my strength. She also told me there was a gift waiting on me at the studio.
When I walked to the counter to check-in, I was greeted by my instructor who told me that the studio had purchased 10 classes for me. I cannot express how amazing this gift is and what it means to me.
After my first few classes, I declared Bikram Yoga as my new religion. Physically, it’s the most challenging activity I’ve ever done. Mentally, it slows me down, clears my mind and makes room for what’s most important - me. It forces me to focus on myself: my breathing and my body. That’s all there really is to life… breathing.
I did it!!!
I stayed the entire 90 minutes in the 105+ degree room. I did most of the 26 postures. I took breaks when I needed to. And, most importantly, I felt myself change - from the inside. I meditated on my spirit and my health & I visualized myself literally “blowing the cancer out” during the final breathing exercises.
Thanks again, Jodi & team. :)
