To Bikram or not to Bikram ....

That has been the question on my mind lately.

So this really isn't a story about Fashion, design, art or travel ... it is the story of the day that finally arrived when I went back to yoga!

I started yoga back in 2001, when I was living in California (as you do) and instantly found a connection and love for the practice.

I tried various forms of yoga mainly Hatha but also, Ashtanga Vinyasa yoga and Bikram or Hot yoga (a sequence of 26 asanas or poses) in a room heated to 40C (105F)

Hatha yoga attempts to balance mind and body via physical postures or "asanas", purification practices, controlled breathing, and the calming of the mind through relaxation and meditation.

I enjoyed them all ... but as life has it ... we moved back to Australia ... more years ticked by ... we moved to the UK ... the cold set in ... the comfort food became the norm ... then I knew it was time to get back to what I loved!

Well, this morning arrived and a friend and I caught the train to Parsons Green, a few stops away from where we live and as we reached the studio, we let out a big SIGH! looked at each other and bravely walked in.

As I walked into the studio I was feeling quite nervous and wondered how I would keep up with the 26 asanas, especially since I hadn't practiced for over 5 years!

The heat in the room instantly started to relax my muscles and the yogi made us feel at ease.

I was surprised at how quickly I took to the several poses and by the time I knew it ... the 90 minutes were up.

I must admit I started to feel a little light headed by the end and the start of a headache was nudging its way in, but overall I felt fantastic.

Well dear readers, it's the afternoon and as I sit here and type, I can feel the muscles in my upper body starting to tense and I can bet you tomorrow morning when I try to get out of bed, I'll be feeling like a bus has just hit me!

But how does that saying go .....

No pain, no gain!

Well, I'm determined to go back again tomorrow!!

Wish me luck.

xx