Rich Neugebauer
1. Tell us a little bit about yourself – where you were born, where you grew up, career, hobbies, interests, etc.
Hi Yoga Family,
The practice of yoga was completely new to me up until 15 years ago. I grew up on Long Island, played high school sports and was in good shape until I made a career in the convenience store food industry where I became fat and unhealthy.
2. What brought you to the Bikram yoga/yoga practice? Where did you first learn about Bikram yoga/yoga?
While visiting a fishing buddy on Martha’s Vineyard, his daughter dragged us to her Bikram class. This was as foreign to me as walking on to a space-ship. I very clearly needed it and was completely sold. Upon my return, I found the Kingsford House, where Derek was my first instructor. I naively told him that I could do half of the postures and signed up for 10 classes in 10 days.
3. How often do you practice?
I currently attend at least 2 classes per week.
4. What are the greatest benefits of your practice?
Even though I still cannot “do” half of the postures, I agree with the original Bikram premise that trying to do them correctly is all that counts and that beginners and long-termers alike receive the same great benefit. The realization that you are doing this for yourself and that your fellow yogis are doing the same brings a sense of camaraderie to the class.
I always leave class feeling good. I have gained the self confidence that I can bring change to my mental and physical being. The atmosphere here has made me more positive. It makes no difference what level you’re at. I feel rewarded by my practice here.
Thank you, yoga family.