My name is Teri Shannon. I grew up here in Naperville when we still had a movie theater downtown on Jefferson Street. My practice with Bikram yoga began March 2004. I had the impression of yoga prior to my first class that yoga was about sitting around stretching and meditating with a few other girls, maybe music and incense in the room. My interest was low but my friend Carol said she liked it and wanted me to try it with her. About 10 minutes into the class I sensed I was in a bit of trouble, my impression had been completely wrong! Sweat was running down my face, the room was uncomfortably hot, there was no incense, and the postures pretty difficult, challenging to say the least! 90 minutes later I was completely humbled, shaken to the core, and strangely at peace. I came back the next 4 days, sweating, stretching, strengthening and finding peace, accomplishment, relaxation. I knew early on this would something that I could sink my teeth into, and would hold my interest for awhile. Little by little I came to understand the yoga was not just a good way to get in shape it was healing my body of injuries and weaknesses I had been suffering from for many years. My bad back, trick ankle, fallen arches, carpal tunnel, martini elbows (from my bartending days) were disappearing! My expensive Z-coil low impact gym shoes were no longer necessary and I could wear heals again! There was more to this yoga thing than meets the eye. I began traveling for work and found Bikram yoga around the country, so I continued to struggle, sweat and feel the rewards. Spring 2006 I took a great leap of faith in myself and enrolled in teacher training. It was a challenge but worked out very well. I’m sure the hands of time turned back a bit and I’m stronger physically and mentally now than probably ever. I love the practice and teaching. I’ve learned so much from Bikram, the classes, and students; it’s always something nourishing and new. I would like to thank everyone that supported me encouraged me and steered me in this direction of reinventing my life.
I now know the yoga takes us beyond fitness, it targets health and inner peace, fitness just rides along with it.
Live it, feel it, share it!
Namaste.