New Location and My First Yoga Experience\r
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I used to be an avid walker about 5 miles a day. I moved to Arizona about 4 years ago. I had fallen a few times, not use to tile floors and brushed it off. I couldn't even walk around the block without a significant limp. I ignored the pain and used a cane. Finally I went to a Chiropractor who with a few months of adjustments was able to put my hips back into proper alignment. However I could not do simple things like get into a car, cross or pick up my right leg without some pain. He told me that I needed to work on the muscles and restrengthen them. So I had to go back for adjustments periodically because my hip would be pulled out of alignment by my unhealthy muscles. I had seen signs in Sedona for Hot Yoga but it was too much of a drive for me. I recently saw a new sign in Cottonwood and I called to see about a private session to see if this is something I could do. I spoke with Jennifer an instructor and owner of both locations. She had me come in to see what range of motion I did or did not have. I didn't need a private session so I signed up for the special promotion package. It was for ten consecutive days I attended three in a row and then two. She explained the benefits of just breathing and resting while in the hot studio. I was informed that there are also non-heated classes for those who wish. I can go to either location in Sedona or Cottonwood. So I did about ten minutes of poses of the practice and rested a lot. I went to my chiropractor to make sure I wasn't aggravating my back because after three classes I was able to cross my right leg over my left. I thought this is too good to be true. He informed me that the ligament and tendon in my right hip that had been consistenly inflammed for over a year was no longer inflammed. I could stand on my right leg also. He was amazed and asked me how long I had been going to the yoga classes I replied only five times. \r
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I am extremely happy with my progress and just signed up for one month. Yoga is not just about stretching and breathing to me. It is a way to heal my mind and body even though you are in a room with other people Yoga is a very personal experience. The various instructors that I have met at the Cottonwood studio have all been very kind and supportive. I truly enjoy my practice as it is called with Jennifer. She includes everyone while guiding us through the practice and makes everyone feel comfortable from a novice like me to people who have been doing it for years. There is no pressure to be like everyone else. You go at the pace that suits you. I have learned to listen to my body. \r
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I am grateful for the compassion and kindness that is prevalent at the studio. I am also grateful that I am regaining my strength and eventually the full use of my right leg again. Today after six years I walked almost two miles on Mingus Mountain. All I can say is Thank You Jennifer and all the Teachers for being there and for guiding me.\r
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I recommend Sedona Hot Yoga to anyone who is familiar with yoga to give this studio a try and to anyone reading this who is sitting on the fence. If your unsure call the studio or just do a drop in class, no membership is required, to experience the practice. You have nothing to lose but potentially a lot to gain. It is one decision I have made in this world of constant movement and electronic digital media that has brought me peace.\r
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Namaste
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