It was spring of 2015 that I began to notice the positive physical changes my daughter Nicole was experiencing after just four months of a regular yoga practice. Currently on medication for high blood pressure and cholesterol, I knew I needed something more than the occasional trip to the gym in the way of physical exercise. I was hesitant to say the least, I knew my physical conditioning was somewhat lacking, but decided to give yoga a try. My first class was at the studio where Nicole was practicing at the time, Collierville Yoga. While the class was physically challenging, I was most surprised by the exhilaration and the feeling of accomplishment that I experienced. I immediately knew that yoga was something I wanted to explore.
I began practicing yoga at home with YouTube instructors and would visit yoga studios while traveling on business. My fitness level and confidence began to improve and I found both the Ashtanga and Vinyasa practices physically and mentally rewarding. Now at the young age of 69, I practice 6 days a week and visit yoga studios around the country whenever I get the chance, I love exploring the different teachers and always glean something new from each experience. I’ve heard many yogis say, ‘Yoga is for EVERYONE’ and ‘It is YOUR practice’, and I believe that to be true. In a world where competition is prevalent in many aspects of our lives, a person can practice yoga with the knowledge that your personal success is not measured or determined by others, but by YOU.
After four years of a regular yoga practice and 24 months on a plant-based diet, my health has improved to a point where my blood pressure and cholesterol numbers have declined and stabilized. I have lost over 25 pounds and I no longer have sleep apnea and no longer use the CPAP machine.
Today, at age 69, my fitness level is somewhat similar to what I experienced at a MUCH younger age…Yoga has paved the way for my life transformation and I’m so grateful for the practice.
Way to go Henry…we can’t wait to see what the next four years will bring!