You may recognize Tina as the cheerful blonde who always has a smile or an encouraging word. We know Tina as a determined mover-and-shaker, devoted to family, service and community. Get to know Tina by reading her story:
“After over 10 years of not practicing, I re-started my yoga practice… one of the wiser decisions I’ve made in my life.
Holy Hot Mama, Batman!
I had gone to the doctor with severe pain and swelling in my knees, only to discover, after an MRI, that years of pronating my feet had caused the cartilage to wear thin. The pain was due to bone rubbing against bone. The treatment plan?… physical therapy (which I had tried but noticed no improvement) or knee replacement surgery (although I was told that it was a procedure typically done for someone 10-20 years older than me).
That was it? No more running, no more hikes, no more bike rides? Just living with pain?
Recalling that Bikram himself had nearly destroyed his knees i n a weight-lifting accident, I figured it was worth a try to utilize Bikram yoga as my physical therapy. I was skeptical, yet optimistic, when I walked into the studio in San Rafael.
Well, it definitely was worth a try! I have recently purchased my 2nd yearly membership. I am convinced that it is an investment with many returns.
Physically I have gained strength, muscle toning, and flexibility. I have more energy and feel more relaxed. My knees? No more pain or swelling! The muscles surrounding my knees have been strengthened and offer support and stability. It may even be that all that “freshly oxygenated blood” that rushes through my knees after certain poses has repaired some of the lost cartilage. I’d love to see a 2nd MRI!
Tina always takes it to her edge.
I have learned what my body needs, what my body can do, and what my mind tells my body it cannot do. I’m continually challenged to release my negative thoughts and practice self-encouragement and self-acceptance.
Each class guarantees a purification and cleansing of the body that has become a healthy addiction.
The opportunity to meditate during the 90-minute class brings me back, time and time again, to acknowledge my Creator and appreciate the body, resources, and gifts I have been given. I am grateful for the opportunity to practice patience, compassion, humility, forgiveness, and grace – for my fellow yogis as well as myself.
I am also grateful for the community I have received at Bikram Yoga San Rafael. The friendships developed with fellow students, the support, energy and encouragement of the talented instructors, and the welcoming, positive and accepting atmosphere fostered by owners Jeff and Arjay, make it easy and desirable to attend class on a regular basis.
The changes that yoga brings about in one’s mind and body may very well be the closest thing to the fountain of youth! I know that I am more centered, grounded and balanced as an individual, spouse and parent, and for that I am grateful.”