Student Profile: Keith Powell (M.D.)

September 27, 2010 3:38 am

Hi Keith, you have been with us at BYV for so long now it seems! How long have you been practicing Bikram Yoga at our studios?

In 2005 I was in a long distance relationship with a Vancouver woman who practiced at BYV. I would be in Vancouver for 2 weeks and then back in the States for 4 weeks. During the 2 weeks in Vancouver I would do 2 -3 classes a week. When I moved to Vancouver in 2006 I started doing 2-3 classes a week and then it got up to 4-5 classes a week.

What is it about Bikram Yoga that keeps you coming back every morning?

Most mornings I hate the class. The studio is WAY too hot and I am never sure I will be able to do all of the postures. And, I have never felt healthier and more vigorous. My posture is better than it has ever been, I hardly ever wake with an achy back, and I have never been this flexible. I look and feel younger!

In your medical opinion which part about Bikram Yoga provides the most benefit? Physical exercise, stress relief, injury repair, or something else?

I have tried other schools of yoga and find I get the most vigorous workout at Bikram. Before each class I do a short meditation and set the intention for the class to be a blessing to my body, mind, and Spirit. And, I believe that it is. I am not too stressed these days so stress relief is not big for me. I must admit to not being very kind to my body over the years. And, I do find that the injuries of time seem to heal with regular practice.

Do you have any words of advice for students during their first week? Anything that has helped you on your yoga journey?

Don’t let your ego push you to do more than your body wants or can do. You get the full benefit by being there and doing what you can without injuring yourself. Follow the dialogue, try to do exactly what the instructor is saying, and stop at the point you feel more than a little discomfort.

Read a great book lately? Share with us your latest favorite read!

Awakening to the Spirit World – The Shamanic Path of Direct Revelation by Sandra Ingerman and Hank Wesselman. I also read the “Girl with the Dragon Tatoo” trilogy which was very entertaining if not enlightening.

Categorised in: Student Profile