"Not knowing how to start this, I’ll just begin by coming from my heart.  I am a 54 year old obese woman, I keep minimally active but have avoided certain “gym boutiques” due to self-consciousness and health limitations.

Well, walking my dog one day, I met a neighbor who told me about this “hot yoga” studio that opened in town, how wonderful and caring the staff was and how yoga itself had done wonders for her.  I was intrigued, however, I have signed up for everything from local health clubs, weekly weight meetings, every and anything to lose weight and feel more healthy.

There was something magical about the Bikram Studio in Simsbury.  I walked in and was greeted by Richard, who made me feel like everyone else in the room.  He didn’t look at me with the stares I felt at other exercise/weight loss centers.  Now I know why.  Bikram Yoga is not like any other. I signed up, figured I wouldn’t last long due to my arthritic back, no disc’s from L1-L5, severe carpal tunnel on my right wrist, left wrist not far behind and, of course, my “extra poundage”.  Was I ever wrong! I stayed 90 minutes in class, tried my best, and not once felt like I was the new person in class.  Yoga students are more into concentrating and meditating on their own postures. Sure there were and still are many postures I struggle with.  That is what pushes me forward.  Richard and the other teachers (Kim, Chris, Lauren, Amy and Leah) have changed me as a person, both physically and mentally.

Now the exciting part!  I started my classes in the beginning of May, and two weeks into my practice I noticed something while typing at work.  I had NO pain whatsoever in my wrist with the carpal tunnel syndrome, yes the wrist that woke me at night, the one I had to shake in the morning to rid myself of the pain and numbness. I had surgery scheduled for early July and have cancelled it already. I also spoke to my Cardiologist, since I do have a history of heart disease in my family, myself taking medication for hypertension.  He assured me that it would be healthy for me to practice hot yoga, and encouraged me to do so.  Not only that, I can bend and pick things off the floor with no pain.  I used to cringe getting out of my car, while now I just get out with no grimaces on my face due to pain!  As if those rewards aren’t enough, I feel stronger mentally, like I have regained my mind and confidence in myself.  It was also noticed by my coworkers that “you seem different, did you win the lotto or something?”  Well, in a way I have.  Thanks to Richard and his caring, supportive staff I have a different way to handle the curveballs everyday life throws at all of us.

Strangely enough, I started practicing hoping I could lose weight for my daughter’s upcoming graduation from college.  A week into class I completely forgot about weight loss, and directed my energies to the postures and meditation.  After 30 days, however,  I was able to drop 2 sizes which made outfit shopping a lot easier.  Thank you, Richard, Kim, Chris, Lauren, Amy and Leah and all the good people at Simsbury Bikram Yoga.

D. Farrell
Weatogue

"I wanted to share my early positive progress after practicing Bikram Yoga at your studio for less than two months.  My strength, balance, flexibility and stamina have all improved, along with 5 lbs. off the scale.  Additionally, my total cholesterol improved 23 points, with LDL 22 points lower and HDL unchanged.  These results are 100% attributable to 20 “hot yoga” sessions at your studio. Thanks for your direction and ongoing encouragement towards achieving a healthy, flexible spine for decades of active, pain-free retirement. One of your very satisfied clients,"

Andy W.

Simsbury, CT

"Bikram yoga has changed my life.  I am a 41 year old man and have always considered myself to be a healthy, active man.  In the fall of 2007 I had a routine physical exam that revealed I had high blood pressure and high cholesterol.  I had also gained weight.  My physician recommended that I lose 10 pounds and return for a follow up visit in six months. Considering a family history of heart disease and cancer, he was very concerned.  We discussed medications I may need if I did not take this seriously.  He did state though that even losing a few pounds may help me a great deal.  My wife was also worried about me and suggested that I try a bikram yoga class.  Yoga for a guy, “no way” I thought.

After some gentle nudging from my wife, I started taking Bikram yoga classes in November of 2007.  What I found immediately was that this 90 minute Bikram Yoga class was extremely challenging, and I considered this the hardest workout I had ever done.  I also found dedicated instructors and fellow students and friends who supported me and provided needed encouragement during this life changing transition.  I have committed myself to practicing Bikram Yoga at least three times per week and have been sticking with it for over a year and a half.  I have found the challenge to be a bit addictive.  Yes, it is a hard workout, but it is also a 90 minute break from everything else.  Putting this time aside for myself actually allows me to give more of myself to others in my life now.  You can do more when you feel great.  I feel great.

Prior to Bikram Yoga I was also experiencing lower back pain, upper back pain, and loss of flexibility.  My spine was hunched over.  I could not touch my toes without bending my knees.  My back hurt if I tried to bend down, and especially hurt after doing regular household chores such as raking leaves or mowing the lawn.  It even hurt during my sleep – and kept me awake many nights.  I had inflammation of the temporomandibular joint which was probably related to all of these stresses I was feeling.  I also have a long history of environmental allergies. 

Currently I am in very good physical and mental condition.   I have gained incredible physical strength and ability, and my core is stronger.  My physical appearance and muscular definition have improved.  BP is normal and cholesterol is down 40 points with no meds, regardless of family history.  I have lost and am maintaining 40 pounds of weight loss without starving or neglecting myself.  I can keep up with my children.  I am much more flexible and rarely experience back pain.  My spine is much straighter and I notice improvements and more movement in this area all of the time.   Temporomandibular joint issues are gone.  My allergies have even improved. 

Most important - I am happy.  I feel like I can do anything again.   I intend to still be skiing at 80.  Hope to see you there. The choice is yours!"

Chuck G,

Wethersfield CT

"I am a 56 year old woman with severe scoliosis.  I was told by an orthopedic surgeon 8 years ago that my spine was collapsing and would ultimately crush my pulmonary system if I didn't have major reconstructive surgery.  As a mother of three, I wasn't willing to deal with that.  But, as the years went on, my spine was collapsing more and more.  I was feeling crushed and was in pretty much constant pain.  My bone density was fine, but I had lost two inches in height already due to my curvatures.  I decided it was time to take responsibility for my own health.  I had tried walking and some weight-training, but without much success.  My doctor had recommended Yoga, but I dismissed that thinking that, being overweight and out of shape, I was hardly the Yoga type.  Then, back in March, a niece who lives in New Jersey came to visit me for the weekend.  She told me she had started Bikram Yoga and wondered whether there was a studio nearby.  She went on-line and discovered that the Studio in Simsbury would be opening soon; she thought I should try it.  I contacted Richard Mercer by e-mail and he e-mailed me back and was very encouraging.

On July 7, I took my first Bikram Yoga class.  I was worried--both about surviving the 105 degree temperature of the room, (hey, I'm a post-menopausal woman and feel cranky and miserable in the heat!) and about whether I could possibly do this Yoga stuff when I was about as inflexible and out of shape as could be. Richard and my niece said it wouldn't matter if I could do any of it so long as I started trying to do what I could--that whatever I could do would be perfect.So, I did it.

I survived the first class.  It was difficult--awful, in fact.  But it was a success--I stayed in the room--the object of the first class.  Driving home afterwards, I felt an overwhelming sense of well-being, the kind of feeling I hadn't had since I had to stop running.  (Okay, I was incredibly sore and tired that night, too.)  I also wanted to go back and do it again.

I just completed my 11th class last night.  I find myself not wanting to miss a day of class when I am out of town.  The 7th class was the "tipping point" for me with respect to the heat.  Incredibly, since then, the heat doesn't really bother me any more.  The poses are still incredibly difficult, but each day I see some progress in myself.   I can reach and twist farther than I could the day before.  My focus is better.  I feel better.  My skin is nicer.  It hurts, but it is, in a way, a good hurt, and I keep reminding myself it will hurt less as I get stronger.  And I can feel all of my muscles getting stronger.  I have lost 6 pounds.  I plan on continuing.  The other folks who attend the classes and the instructors are respectful and accepting of where you are.  They are all supportive, friendly, nice, and positive.  So, for people out there who are worried about being too fat and out of shape to try doing these crazy poses in front of other people, don't let that stand in your way.  Don't eat for at least two hours before you go and don't wear cotton.  Don't worry about anything else.  Put your mat down in the back row and just do it."

BG.
Granby, CT

"At over 200 pounds I feel comfortable, safe and encouraged to continue coming to classes. From my first day I felt like I belonged to this loving family.  Everyone I have met at the center is full of wonderful information.  In 23 days I have lost 3 inches and 5 pounds and I have not changed my eating habits.  I feel like I am thirty something again not 50 something. Everyone should try it."

Carla M.. Weatogue, CT

"I have been fit my whole life, I played in the sports that the town provided as a child, softball and basketball throughout middle school and varsity sports in highschool.  Now, at 30 years of age I continue to workout at the gym with the usual cardio, core training, weight trainting, etc.  When I saw that Bikram Yoga came to the Valley I pounced at the opportunity to try something different.  My first class I felt nauseous and faint.  By the second class, I felt more aware of my body, unaware that I can be in control of my breathing and get a maximum total body workout using just my body!  Now, I am hooked!  I have been trying to go at least 4-5 times a week.  I am suddenly aware of the air outside and how good it feels to breathe!  It does something to you, it taps into the inner part of you...I can only describe it as AMAZING!"

Kathy C.
Weatogue, CT

"As an elementary school teacher, I often look for something to expand my horizons during the summer. I certainly found it the moment I walked into the warmly inviting Bikram Yoga room three weeks ago!  I have practiced yoga for about 15 years and have never experienced the level of benefits that I have during my short time practicing Bikram.  After an intense morning session, I carry a sense of euphoria with me the rest of the day, along with increased energy and a true feeling of good health.   I am thrilled that I found Laurie and Richard's wonderfully welcoming studio!"

Barbara H.
Canton, CT

"Bikram yoga is an eye opener to say the least. It's hard, it's rewarding in so many ways, and it's a blast. I don't care what your age is (high school athlete or senior citizen), what kind of shape you think you're in, or not in, male or female, you've gotta give this a try."

Joe S.
Simsbury, CT

"Bikram Yoga has improved my life in just a few weeks.   I have more energy  and focus throughout my day as well as improved sleep, flexibilityand strength. I am so thankful for the simsbury bikram yoga studio, and plan to continue the practice as often as possible.

Laura C.
Barkhamsted, CT

"At age 56, I'm looking for a new fitness regimen for the second half of my life.  I think I've found it -- at least in part -- with Bikram.  After a week or so of Bikram I've noticed a positive difference in how I feel, physically & mentally.  My muscles feel tighter without the aches & pains I was starting to experience after 25 years of aerobics.  I also feel like I may actually be able to regain the strength & flexibility that I once had but lost after stopping aerobics.  And I find that Bikram class is a great stress reliever.  No matter how cranked up I am when I arrive, I'm calmer when I leave.  That's a huge plus for me."

Arlene D.
Avon, CT

"Bikram Yoga is better than I expected. I get a full cardio workout,
improved strength and balance, and, as a bonus, I feel great!  You guys are great, too!!"

Kurt G.
Simsbury, CT

"I’d like to say, that I’ve only just started Bikram Yoga this month.  I cannot tell you how happy I am with the program.  I love the fact that I am getting a GREAT workout, and it is LOW IMPACT!  I’ve noticed that I have been sleeping better. I am amazed at how quickly I can see results in my flexibility, especially in my knees.  I can only imagine what benefits lie ahead with continued attendance!!!  I look forward to the possibilities.”

Sue H.
Canton, CT

"After experiencing my first class at Bikram Yoga in the Valley, I canceled my 9-year membership at a local health club.  I could tell immediately that this practice was going to make a positive impact on my health and vitality.  As a professional yoga teacher, I know about the many healing benefits one experiences with a dedicated practice.  Bikram's unique method of meditation in motion is a wonderful compliment to other styles of yoga.  I'm also a certified ski instructor and need to get in shape for the ski season, so I thank Richard and his staff for helping me to achieve my goals.  Through your classes, I can already see a difference in my core strength, balance and flexibility which is so important to enjoying any sport, especially skiing & snowboarding!  Thanks for being there Bikram!
 
Anne A.
Simsbury, CT

"I just wanted to say that Bikram Yoga in one short month has started to change my body in every aspect.  I am stronger, and more toned overall.  It is the hardest fitness program I have ever done, but the most rewarding.  I am addicted!

Thanks for opening a beautiful studio with such a fabulous program. 

Patti C.

Simsbury, CT

"Have to share my experience in Richard Mercer's Bikram Yoga class yesterday morning. Went with my son, and neither of us can say enough about it. Richard is a great teacher, very patient, and the class itself may be one of the hardest physical challenges I have ever endured. I left the class exhausted and uplifted all at the same time. It is an experience unlike any other. I strongly encourage you to give it a try. And for those of you concerned about the level of your flexibility, no need to worry. Without question, I am the least flexible human being on this planet, and yet nothing broke or snapped on me. Quite the opposite, I am feeling great today, with minimal soreness. You have got to try this thing; it is amazing!!!"

One Month Later...
I have been doing Bikram yoga for about a month now and cannot say enough about the practice. First, I have lost several inches, developed muscle throughout my entire body, all without a huge change in my diet. Second, my blood pressure has begun to creep down, and day-to-day, I am feeling more and more relaxed, and more and more focused. Finally, I think I may have graduated from least flexible person on the planet, to second most inflexible. I really feel great these days. If you haven't tried it yet, give it a go for no less than a week. I have no doubt you will become as hooked as I am."

James H.
Bloomfield, CT

"I am new to Bikram Yoga, I have been practicing for about 6 weeks now. I love it! I am amazed at how my body feels. I feel taller, stronger and leaner. I am not new to exercise, in fact, I have been a "gym rat" most of my adult life. My most recent routine consisted of 3-4 spinning classes a week, combined with weight training. But, I have to admit, Bikram has tightened my buns faster than any other workout I've ever done!! I have felt muscles in this past month that I didn't even know I had! And it's not a typical post-workout soreness that I have experienced, but instead it's a tightness. My entire body feels worked, but in a strong, tight way, not the I-can't-walk-up-the-stairs way that I have experienced with other forms of intense exercise. I have already seen my practice improve in this short amount of time, and I'm excited to see the results. I just cancelled my gym membership, no need for that anymore! I have found that my Bikram workouts are much more efficient and well worth the expense. In this case, you definitely get what you pay for! Many thanks to Richard and the other dedicated instructors, I can't wait for my next class!"

Saasha P.
South Windsor, CT

"After countless diets, gym memberships, and workout routines I have finally found something that works and I enjoy day in and day out. I have been practicing Bikram yoga for about 2 1/2 months, 5-6 days a week. Every day I feel the therapeutic benefits of these postures and this effective routine, ranging from loss of excess weight and increased flexibility. Through immense perspiration and struggle I have become stronger mentally and physically, more determined to succeed in and out of class, and more self-assured as an individual. This yoga practice has become a way of life, giving me structure and release in a very hectic time in my life. I owe all my benefits and success to Bikram yoga, I highly recommend taking part in a class as soon as you can."

Larry P.
East Hampton, CT

"People are always talking about breathing but I never really took the power of breathing seriously until I started Bikram Yoga.  I never really noticed how shallowly I breathe - most of my inhales and exhales started and stopped in the area at the top of my chest.  The moving meditation that is Bikram Yoga taught me how to breathe, more deeply and completely than I ever remember doing.  With that deep breathing, things started to slow down.  It takes longer for me to get riled up about the little things and I feel calmer.  my breath gives me something to center my thinking around.  Before I make any decisions, I check to see if I am really breathing - as I now connect deep and complete breathing with reflection and thoughtfulness.  Also, there is no comparison for the physical and mental workout that you get with Bikram Yoga.  In my busy life where all that matters is results, it is wonderful to participate in an activity where you actually can get an A for effort - my body and mind reap the benefits as long as I try."

Chris W.

East Hartford, CT

"I have always been active, but was diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis in my back. I found that my previous work out routines, including running, weight machines and various other forms of cardio, could exacerbate the pain. Bikram Yoga eliminated the pain - I mean it's gone. Even when I don't practice for a while, the pain stays away. Bikram also gives me the best workout and makes me feel better than anything else I've tried.  The peace it brings me in all aspects of my life is immeasurable."

Laurie K.
Simsbury, CT

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