Meet Our May Student of the Month, Shelley!

This amazing mama wears so many hats. She's a wife, mom, stepmom, teacher and our student of the month! It's surprising she has the time for a yoga practice, but like anything in life, we make time for the things that are important to us. It's easy to find excuses not to do things. More importantly, it's when we take those excuses and find action to bring about the changes we're looking for. Read about how her challenges kept her coming back to her mat.

"My Bikram Yoga journey started about 11 years ago, when my friend Johanna (who many of you may know!) convinced me one afternoon to try Bikram Yoga.At first I was very hesitant and already had my opinion of what yoga was, but once I experienced one class…I did not want to do it again. She then convinced me the first class is always the hardest and not the most enjoyable experience. I trusted my friend again and after the second class, I was hooked! I found myself going 2-4 times weekly. It became part of my new weekly exercise routine and I loved it! I lost weight gained from the stress of being a teacher and full-time graduate, as well as learned more about how far I can push myself physically.

   My yoga journey followed me into my teaching career as well as becoming a mom and getting married. I took about a 2 year break during the time of having my son; however, I came back to my routine once unexpected events unfolded. 

     During my separation from my husband, naturally, I was depressed, but at worst I felt lost. I remembered how much being in the yoga room helped my mood as well as helped fulfill time when I was not with my son. Thus, my journey went from physical fitness to building confidence in myself again as well as a positive mentality. Coming back to my yoga routine not only helped me emotionally get through my divorce, but also began the healing of wounds from past traumatic experiences of my childhood. Being in the room concentrating on myself, my movements, and opening my mind allowed for my body and mind to “let go” of past and present burdens, stress, and worries. 

Then COVID hit and the studio I previously went to unfortunately closed down, which led me to Bikram Yoga Catonsville. Being at Bikram Yoga Catonsville has been an amazing experience. All of the staff are so knowledgeable, welcoming, and always have a positive attitude. Everyone at the studio, including the members, are so personable and beyond kind. 

 The other amazing perk of being at Bikram Yoga Catonsville and being a part of the BYC community, is as an educator, it is always the best stress reliever after a long, chaotic and always eventful, school day! This is my first year in an administrative position as an Assistant Principal, which impacted my ability some days to get to yoga. The staff at BYC have always been accommodating, especially during the times I have barely made the 5pm Monday and Wednesday classes,

  I have walked into BYC studio feeling my worst at times,and I cannot tell you how many times our amazing BYC staff changed my entire day just with their smiles; greeting me and just kindly asking how I am, changing my mood instantly! It is such a great way to continue my day and begin class. 

Thank you Lynne and Kyle for always being supportive of my practice as well as checking-in. Every teacher at BYC is beyond wonderful and knowledgeable! I cannot say I have a favorite because each teacher is unique but special in how they go through each individual part of the class. At this time, I continue to have some personal hurdles which include getting through challenging times with my blended family, and of course the stress of the everyday world of education. I am beyond thankful for the BYC community to bring my spirits up every time I walk through the door. From my personal experience, I can say Bikram Yoga and the BYC community has been so positive and life-changing,and continues to be such an important part of my routine in life. I highly recommend BYC studio for everyone!!!!"