Bikram Yoga Decatur

Lynn Uphoff, 59

Life is not only measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away.

Raised in Colorado I moved to Illinois in my early 20's where I received my Bachelor's and Master's degrees from Bradley University. I have three beautiful daughters and eight delightful grandchildren. My job and mission is to help non-profits, specifically The Salvation Army, raise money for programs and services to contribute hope and healing to all who suffer. Because my job entails a lot of travel I willing moved to Atlanta in 2004 thinking travel in and out of Atlanta would be easier.

How often? When in town I try to practice every other day. In the beginning I made it a point to practice on the road as well as when I was home. I have had the pleasure of practicing in several cities including, Baltimore, MD, Key West, FL and Tampa, FL, just to mention a few.

How long? My good fortune was moving to Atlanta in 2004. I was invited to attend a Bikram Yoga class at the closing of my new home. It was definitely a God "thing" as it seemed every corner I turned for the next few weeks I was encouraged to attend a Bikram Yoga class.

Benefits: I suffered a neck injury in a car accident in April 2003. Although I refused to live on pain pills and muscle relaxers, for several months following the accident I faithfully went to physical therapy. The muscle, back, neck and headache problems were ever present. It had gotten to the point where I didn't know if I was going to be able to continue working. I am also a Breast Cancer survivor. The surgery left the left-side of my body from my shoulder to my waist numb. Because of Bikram Yoga, other than one little numb spot just below my left armpit, the feeling is back on my left-side. Bikram Yoga restored my physical, mental and emotional health.

Challenges: It's far easier to muscle my way through the 26 postures. The breathing is definitely the most challenging for me.

You can see more photos of Lynn's practice in our Posture Album.