Bikram Yoga Decatur

Ellen, 43

I am professor and chair of the School of Computer Science at Georgia Tech. My job is interesting but also pretty high stress. I do research, teach, manage, and lead. I am the mom of two girls, a 10 year-old named Carmen and a 7 year-old named Bethany. When I can find time for hobbies, I enjoy quilting, gardening, cooking and reading.

I live in the Oak Grove area, just about 10 minutes drive from BYD. I am so grateful to live so close to such an excellent studio. I travel for work, and I like to practice when I travel, so I've seen quite a few different studios around the country (and even in Barcelona!). BYD is hands-down my favorite.

How Often: I try to practice three times per week. I love the Wednesday and Friday 4:30-6pm classes. They are a great transition from work to home. I'd like to try the 30 day challenge sometime, perhaps this May.

How Long: I have practiced Bikram yoga for about four years. I previously practiced non-Bikram yoga, and I especially liked the pregnancy and post-pregnancy classes at the Pierce program in Virginia Highlands.

Benefits: I've always been pretty athletic, but Bikram yoga has definitely increased my lung capacity and improved my overall muscle strength and flexibility. While I value the physical benefits, I most value the benefits to my mental health. I love it when Susie says "it's all about you". I rarely get 1.5 hours that are all about me!

Challenges: In the beginning I found the heat and the balance postures to be very challenging. The heat usually doesn't bother me anymore, unless I am at a studio that really cranks the temperature. I am definitely challenged by anything involving backbends. I know I've made progress, but my back flexibility seems to vary tremendously from day to day. I try not to be jealous of the super-flexible people.

Anything else: Just a big thanks to all of you for running such a terrific studio.