I will have been running regularly for 30 years. I calculate I have logged somewhere around 35,000 to 40,000 miles over the years. I have always enjoyed both the physiological and psychological benefits of exercise. Running has helped me stay physically, emotionally and intellectually fit. Running is a creative time for me. While my body is enjoying the repetitive movement, my mind is free. Ideas come freely.\r
Two years ago, I started practicing yoga at Sunstone. During my first few classes, it was a challenge just to remain in the room. It seemed so hot. I couldn't drink enough water. I couldn't imagine I would ever move into standing bow, fixed firm or Tibetan Camel and many of the other poses. But, something kept drawing me back. With each class I progressed just a little more. After a few weeks, I began to move into the postures more deeply. I began to appreciate the heat and the cleansing perspiration. I learned to breathe in a way running never taught me. The nagging little pains and soreness from running I had learned to accept began to disappear. I rarely have pain in my body now. When I do, it's normally gone after one visit to the studio.\r
I noticed yoga brought me an emotional peacefulness and mental clarity similar to what I experience from running but a little different. For me, running is an ""inside out"" process. I like to run in the morning. I get energized and my mind gets engaged. Yoga is ""outside in"". I like to practice yoga at the end of the day because it helps me to integrate, accept and release. Yoga is about strength, balance, focus, self control and clarity. Last summer, I attended a retreat conducted by Sam Keene, the author of ""Fire in the Belly"". At one point, he asked participants to think of their ""sacred places"". It was a no-brainer for me. Your studio has become one of my ""sacred places"" now.\r
Ed Rankin
Pros: Fantastic for pain management for me
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