Our Instructors
All BYCV Instructors are certified in the Bikram Method of Yoga by Bikram himself. All Bikram Yoga Instructors must complete an intensive 9 week training program that consists of:
- Over 500 hours of study
- 2 classes per day for 9 weeks
- Passing a basic Anatomy Course
- Daily posture clinics
- Attending lectures from health care professionals such as Chiropractors, MD's and ND's
Jennifer
I was born and raised in Duncan, so I am very happy to be back in my hometown bringing Bikram's Yoga to such a wonderful community.
I have been practicing Bikram's Yoga for five years, and took my training in Honolulu, Hawaii with Birkam Choudhury in the Spring of 2007.
Bikram's Yoga has completely changed my life, and I'm not just saying that for dramatic effect, it really has. In five years, I went from being overweight and unhappy in my life, to working in a Bikram Yoga studio, to becoming a Bikram Yoga instructor, to owning a Bikram Yoga studio. This yoga is powerful stuff and sometimes it can be just the motivation you need to take a small step forward in your life. Who knows where that step will lead?
1. How did you discover Bikram's Yoga?
My sister had tried a few classes on the advice of a friend, and eventually invited me along - word of mouth. Anyone who tries the yoga usually can't stop talking about it, whether they loved it or hated it.
2. What was your first class like?
My first class was amazing! I had always found it tough to break a sweat no matter what type of exercise I tried. Obviously with Bikram's Yoga that's not an issue. I felt strong and confident, it was very much needed at that point in my life.
3. What is the most important thing to you that you get from your yoga practice?
Peace of mind. For 90 minutes I get to free my mind and just be in the moment. Sometimes that moment is wonderful, other times it's a struggle but I am always happy to be there.
4. What made you decide to become a Bikram's Yoga instructor?
I wanted a complete lifestyle overhaul. I figured that if I became an instructor, I'd have no choice but to walk the walk. The best part about being an instructor by far is the relationship you build with your students. The Cowichan Valley is home to some of the most amazing people I have ever encountered.
5. What do you think is the biggest misconception regarding Bikram's Yoga?
I think a lot of people are scared that it will be too challenging, they feel they need to get in shape first, then come try it. But the thing is, the yoga will get you in shape, and with consistency, it happens so fast. After only a few classes, you will begin to see muscle definition; the yoga can change your body, but you have to commit. If you're interested in trying it out, just do it. The longer you wait, the more you will talk yourself out of it.
6. Any advice for new students?
I could give you all sorts of tips like: drink lots of water before class, and: your first class is your worst, it gets better...but I'd rather just give encouragement. Anyone can do this yoga, that's a guarantee. No matter what kind of shape you think you're in, how old you feel, how not flexible you are; you still have a body and a mind that needs this yoga, and if you come in and try it out, that's something you won't regret.
Valerie
1. How did you discover Bikram's Yoga?
Word of mouth - a friend of mine was hooked & suggested I try it.
2. What was your first class like?
Hot, hard & worth it. I walked out with wobbly bambi legs & was totally amazed that during the 90 minutes I didn't think about anything other than my breath & each posture.
3. What is the most important thing to you that you get from your yoga practice?
Hard to just choose one thing - I'll narrow it down to patience, energy & a nicely toned body.
4. What made you decide to become a Bikram's Yoga instructor?
I fell head over heels in love with the yoga & the opportunity to share it with others was too good to pass up. Although I never thought that I would be sweating for a living, I couldn't be happier with my choice.
5. What do you think is the biggest misconception regarding Bikram's Yoga?
That you have to be super flexible in order to do it. So not true. The only way to create that flexibility is to work at it, you won't just wake up one morning magically flexible.
6. Any advice for new students?
Make sure you hydrate before class. Be patient with yourself & your body. Don't take yourself too seriously, just relax, breathe & have fun!
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