I first came to Sunstone in January 2004. I had already been doing power and Iyengar yoga classes at another fitness center. I also was running and doing spin class. \r
I thought the concept of doing yoga in such heat was insane and I never imagined I would walk through the door! But I was looking for something to challenge my enthusiasm, so I let a friend talk me into the 10 -day introductory offer. The first class, The heat bothered me, but I loved the challenge. I came 4 or 5 times a week for those first few months, and immediately felt more physically and mentally balanced. I am fairly strong, but my balance has never been great and I have very tight hips and hamstrings. The physical benefits are immense. When I control my eating, there is a definite weight loss benefit from fitness yoga. I feel toned and balanced when I am standing and sitting. It has helped me with the stress in my life. I have learned to rely on breathing to calm myself instead of reacting hastily to outside annoyances. My running form improved and I felt stronger in spin class and when lifting weights. When I?m having a hard time in the outside world, the 90 minutes in class is a welcome respite. As a businessperson, I immediately recognized the excellence of the Sunstone operation. The instructors were great, the business side worked well, and everyone was welcoming and encouraging. I think that is a key thing, since it is a little frightening to challenge yourself in a 99 degree room. When I walk through the front door of the studio I begin to calm down. That depressurization continues as I walk down the hall to the locker room. By the time I enter the hot room, I am ready to take deep breaths and take the floor. The different teaching styles are welcomed and I never feel embarrassed if I fall out of a balancing pose or can't even reach my toes! When class is over, I feel ready to face the world.\r
Karen Austin
Pros: You can travel and go to classes all over the usa!
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