Rheumatoid Arthritis & Osteoarthritis

She has undergone knee joint replacement surgery for both of her knees as well as back surgery.

Jane could not walk for more than 2 blocks while using support, and had been forced to stop any form of physical activity.  Constantly exhausted, Jane was taking a variety of medication including morphine for the extreme pain, and had to use a motorized scooter to move around the house.  Jane could not use stairs, and had to rely on friends to bring her food and medication.  She began to go to counseling in order to learn how to cope mentally with her disabilities.

One day she attended a Bikram Yoga class with her daughter, and began to come 5 days a week.  After committing herself to this level of practice for several months Jane has experienced some amazing benefits, and no long takes any medication for pain management or her osteoarthritis and rheaumatoid arthritis.

“I am starting a full time job, something I never thought I could do again. I take my three year old grandson to the beach and the park; I pick him up to hug and comfort him when he needs it and I can stoop down to look at all the exciting things a young child finds on the ground. I go for walks, but I can't do a walk and yoga on the same day.”

Q. What would you like to tell people who are feeling hesitant about trying the yoga?
A.” I believe than anybody can do this yoga, you have to trust the process, listen to your body, don't push yourself or try to do what others are doing, and be grateful that our bodies are resilient and we can rebuild after extensive damage.
Bikram's yoga gave me my life back and for that I am deeply grateful.”

*Names changed to respect privacy.