Tell us a little bit about yourself. 

I was born in Oswego and lived here my entire life with the exception of college at Alfred University. I am now an attorney that specializes in civil defense litigation at a law firm in Syracuse (yes, I make the commute EVERY day). Besides practicing Yoga, I own and ride a horse, Rosie, that I purchased off the racetrack about 8 years ago. I mainly ride for pleasure but we do jumping and compete in Hunter Paces. I also work out at the gym and/or jog when I can.

What brought you to the Bikram yoga practice?

My cousin, Terri Hourigan (who also was a yogi of the month), brought me to Bikram Yoga. She started last summer and I noticed that she looked absolutely AMAZING so I had to try it. I loved it after my first class.

How often do you practice?

As often as I can, usually 3 to 4 times a week.

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 tore my left ACL, meniscus and MCL skiing in 2007 and had ACL reconstruction in April 2007. Then in 2009 I tore my right ACL skiing at Whiteface. I had that reconstruction surgery in November 2009. When I started yoga and tried to sit Japanese style, my hips were cocked because of the scar tissue in my left knee and I could not do the fixed firm pose for about three months. After three months, though, I could get into that pose. Because of yoga the immediate improvements in my knees were astounding. Now, I can feel the stiffness return in my knees if I do not practice every few days. So, I will be a yogi for life because of that benefit!!

Also, I have severe allegies and asthma. BOTH have improved since I started yoga a year ago. In fact, this past winter was the first winter season in about 10 years that I did not get a sinus infection. I also noticed after a few months of Yoga that I hardly had to use my inhaler any more before or after gym workouts.

Overall, yoga has made me feel the best I have felt in years.

What are the greatest benefits of your practice?

The health benefits I listed above are great, but that contented feeling that you get after class is my favorite thing about yoga.

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

My health has improved greatly, and I get sick less often. In addition, my ability to handle the many stresses in my job and life has greatly improved and I believe that is also because of yoga.

What is your favorite part about Bikram Yoga Oswego?

That feeling of well being that you get after class. It's so addictive that's why I keep coming back!!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

There are so many great benefits about yoga, I think everyone should be doing it! It's never to late to start!!