How Bikram Yoga Helped in My Pregnancy by Megan Monroe

Kellyanne Kennedy, 45, 60 day challenge champion
"I found Bikram Yoga many years ago while I was searching for a solution to some back pain. After decades of athletic/sports based exercise, with minimal attention to flexibility or stretching, the "minor" injuries were beginning to catch up to me. I found myself haphazardly attending classes -- usually when the back pains would flare up. I thought I knew the benefits of yoga, I had felt them.... obviously I did not. It wasn't until this summer, and the much needed "nudging" from another yogini-want-a-be, that I was able to put together a string of classes that somehow grew into 60 consecutive days. Besides the obvious improvement in my yoga postures, within the first few weeks I was enjoying much more restful sleep, diminished cravings for sweets and alcohol, and a "calmness" during my normally stress-filled day. By the mid-point, the physical changes were becoming apparent. There was a leaner and muscle toned me staring back in the class mirror. I receive compliments on how healthy, smooth and young my skin looks. (I believe that I may have left a few wrinkles in the studio too.) Now that the 60 days are over, I can unequivocally say that this has changed my body and life --- inside and out. Simply put, my body just "runs" better, I think clearer and am much more focused. I could never have made it without the motivation, kindness and guidance from all of the instructors -- they truly are the best thing about the studio. I can't imagine life without it now."

Henry Rozek, 41, 60 day challenge champion
"Having pushed myself at work to a level most would consider unhealthy, I wanted to do something good for my body. Not being fond of gyms, running, cycling, etc., I was introduced to Bikram Yoga by some good friends. We decided to embark on a 60 day journey that not only changed my body into a stronger, more toned, lighter and, most importantly for me, flexible one, but, it changed my mental attitude. It has helped me focus. It has given me more energy and drive for my daily regimen, which before was exhausting. I'm not sure that I could continue to do this on my own, but the staff definitely keeps me coming back."

Denise, 51, practicing 1 year
Condition before beginning Bikram Yoga: Athletic, but smoked a pack of menthols a day for 15 years, diagnosed in 2005 with severe osteopenia in right hip and lower spine.

Results from Bikram Yoga:
"I decided once and for all to quit smoking on July 10, 2006 and walked into my first Bikram class the following day. I have not had one cigarette since, and only experienced one craving all year, which passed rather quickly. I had tried to quit so many times, and Bikram Yoga was my answer. This practice has changed my life in so many other ways as well. I am thrilled with the way my skin looks and feels. I have lost the 10-ish pounds I put on after giving up smoking. My entire body is becoming more toned. My hip alignment has improved dramatically (and I'll report back after my next bone density test). I am doing back-bends and spine-twists and can't believe it! I've been a borderline insomniac my entire life and I am now getting a full 8 hours of uninterrupted sleep, waking refreshed. I am more alert at work and therefore more productive (during my last review, my boss commented on the "dramatic change" in me, and gave me a huge promotion!). Digestion is smooth and natural, and my diet has naturally evolved to more wholesome foods and I think that is one of the keys to getting the most from this practice - when you let your body tell you what to do, the results can be amazing. I love my teachers at the BYI - they are talented, attentive, warm and supportive. I intend to practice Bikram Yoga as long as I am able."

Ann Davies, 67, practicing 6.5 years
Condition before beginning Bikram Yoga: Prescribed osteopinna

Results from Bikram Yoga:
"Over the past 9 years (during WHI study) my bone density has increased by 8.5% and I do not take meds any more (fosomix, estrogen, etc.). I just exercise, yoga and moderate bicycling and walking and take 120 mg of calcium daily."