Tell us a little bit about yourself - where you were born, where you grew up, career, hobbies, interests, etc. 

I am originally from Northport, Long Island. I came to Oswego for college and never left. I am a full time professor in the Counseling & Psychological Services Department at SUNY Oswego, Director of Integrative Counseling Services (Oswego, Cicero, Auburn), Mental Health Counselor, Author & International speaker/presenter.  I am the proud momma of Leah and Andrew. 

What brought you to the Bikram yoga practice? Where did you first learn about Bikram yoga? 

My sister dragged me to a Bikram class on Long Island during a visit.  I remember turning to her during a floor pose and mouthing “I’m going to die.” At the time I was training for a marathon and shocked that I could not make it through a class. I went back with her though the very next day; I like a challenge! On the six hour ride back to Oswego I started researching if there were any Bikram classes nearby.  I originally got hooked because of the balance it brought to my fitness routine while I was marathon training. I also noticed quickly how being in the hot room seemed to make running in the heat and humidity less of a challenge.

How often do you practice? 

I practice as often as I can although it never feels like enough. My ideal would be to practice everyday! 

What specific physical issues, if any, did you have before taking your first class? What changes have you seen/felt in your body- overall physical and general well-being? 

I am blessed to not have any major physical challenges however I feel the wear and tear that also being a runner for the past 10 years has had on me. My body and mind both crave yoga. It soothes my sore muscles and joints, while at the same time provides an intense and challenging workout.

What are the greatest benefits of your practice?

Sometimes I forget that yoga class counts as a workout. After about six months of coming to classes regularly something changed. Bikram yoga class went from being a challenging physical workout to a moving meditation. The greatest benefit is that I am totally focused on breathing and NOTHING else for 90 minutes. It is the only experience I have where my mind is quiet.

How has this practice changed your health and life? Any emotional or other benefits? 

I love that each moment of yoga challenges my inner critic. My physical and emotional core is stronger and it looks it. I feel fit and healthy, I look fit and healthy, I am fit and healthy.

Is there anything else you would like to add? 

Yoga is about acceptance and love. I spend 90 minutes breathing calmly, accepting who I am and what I see in the mirror, and loving the positive peaceful energy that flows in the room.