ABOUT OUR TEACHERS
EMILY VENDEMMIA
When did you go to Teacher Training?
Spring 2006
Where are you from?
Maryland
What was your first class like?
Hot and tough.
How often do you practice Bikram Yoga?
7-10 classes a week.
Why did you start Bikram Yoga?
I was inflexible
How long have you been practicing Bikram Yoga?
March 2005
What are some long term and short term benefits of Bikram Yoga?
My stress level is much lower, I lost weight, and my body only keeps improving.
How have you seen students change by doing Bikram Yoga?
I've seen students change everything about their life, such as rearranging their schedule to practice daily, and sometimes to attend 2 classes a day. I've seen them morph mentally and physically. It's very inspiring.
Why do you teach Bikram Yoga?
Because I breath, eat, and sleep this yoga. I love it, and I can't stop telling people about it.
JULIE KAMMERER
When did you go to Teacher Training?
Fall 2008 in Acapulco, Mexico
Where are you from?
Severna Park, Maryland
What was your first class like?
I was really sweaty, hot and confused. But...I loved it!
How often do you practice Bikram Yoga?
I make an effort to practice as much as possible, everyday if I can!
Why did you start Bikram Yoga?
To heal my back and lose weight..
How long have you been practicing Bikram Yoga?
Since Fall 2007.
What are some long term and short term benefits of Bikram Yoga?
Bikram yoga helps improve overall health, gives you energy and helps calm the mind, which makes life outside of the yoga room a lot better.
How have you seen students change by doing Bikram Yoga?
I have seen students change by becoming more focused, feeling better about themselves, alleviating chronic pain and making commitments to an overall healthier lifestyle.
Why do you teach Bikram Yoga?
This yoga is unlike anything I had experienced before and it started changing my life for the better within my first month of practicing. I had never felt so good in my life. I teach Bikram yoga because I believe in what it can do for people. It's different for everyone and I don't think it can be put into words but it is amazing.
SUE SERINI
When did you go to Teacher Training?
First group in Hawaii, Spring 2007
Where are you from?
Maryland
What was your first class like?
Crazy! I only went because Emily and Sam convinced me (during a night of eating lots of food and drinking too much wine!), my husband, step-son and his friend to go. I didn't have much interest, but agreed to go because all of the guys were going. I was fortunate to be able to watch Emily during my first class... it was so inspiring!
How often do you practice Bikram Yoga?
Daily if possible
Why did you start Bikram Yoga?
To help neck pain and to help lose weight (I had to stop running and gained more weight than I liked). I didn't realize it would also help my stress levels and overall well-being.
How long have you been practicing Bikram Yoga?
August 2006
What are some long term and short term benefits of Bikram Yoga?
Mental focus (inside and outside of the yoga room), calmness and a more balanced feeling, most importantly good health--long and short term!
How have you seen students change by doing Bikram Yoga?
I am amazed and inspired as I see their postures and their bodies change, as well as gain focus and concentration. I love to see the happy and calm students who make the time to come to yoga because they love how they feel by practicing.
Why do you teach Bikram Yoga?
I love bringing what I know and love to others. I hope that I can help others by bringing my knowledge and experiences to them. I teach it because I love how it's made me feel and hope to bring that to as many people as possible--even strangers I meet at Nordstrom or Starbucks!
KAITLYN BAKER
When did you go to Teacher Training?
Spring 2010
Where are you from?
Maryland
What was your first class like?
Hot. I felt so great after the class was over though!
How often do you practice Bikram Yoga?
As often as I can get in the hot room!
Why did you start Bikram Yoga?
I worked the front desk at the studio for awhile before even taking
class. Then eventually everyone finally convinced me to go and take
class :D
How long have you been practicing Bikram Yoga?
Since October 2009
What are some long term and short term Benefits of Bikram Yoga?
It helps you feel calm in so many stressful situations because you
learn how to BREATHE through stress and discomfort. It also makes the
body feel great!
How have you seen students change by doing Bikram Yoga?
Usually students seem more at peace with life after starting the yoga
Why do you teach Bikram Yoga?
I feel like this is the closest thing i have in my life to a mental
and physical cure-all and it is so awesome being able to share that
with everyone who comes!
MICHELLE MCGRATH
When did you go to Teacher Training?
I went to the first training in Las Vegas, Fall 2009.
Where are you from?
I grew up in Arnold and went to high school at Broadneck. Since then I've lived in Philadelphia, Phoenix and Denver but right now I'm happy to be home. Annapolis is beautiful!
What was your first class like?
I remember I was wearing sweatpants (bad choice) and that it was extremely challenging, but when I came out I felt like I was floating on air! The next day, muscles I didn't even know existed were hurting. Having grown up an athlete, I had always enjoyed the relaxing aspects of yoga but never found it physically demanding enough to be my primary form of exercise. After my first Bikram class, I knew I would be able to replace the running that was leaving me with daily pain in my kness, for a yoga practice. I've never looked back.
How often do you practice Bikram Yoga?
I usually practice about five times a week, sometimes more than five, and once in a while less than five.
Why did you start Bikram Yoga?
When I was in high school I had a yoga "workout" tape and received a Sivananda yoga book for Christmas. I dabbled in home practice but it fell to the wayside when I went to college. After college, as a first year teacher in a low income school in Phoenix, I found myself often overwhelmed and stressed out. One of my fellow first year teachers had practiced during her college years in Boston. She arranged a discount for teachers who were in our program at the local Bikram studio and was recruiting folks to try it out. Knowing yoga had helped me in the past, I decided to give it a shot even though I thought the heat thing was a little nutty. It took a few months before I started practicing regularly, but then I was hooked. I used to say "I practice yoga so I don't scream at the children during the day!"
How long have you been practicing Bikram Yoga?
Started in September 2003. Started regular practice Feb 14, 2004. Happy Valentine's day to me. :-)
What are some long term and short term benefits of Bikram Yoga?
I think the biggest immediate benefits of a Bikram class are the stress release and emotional calm you feel when you leave class. Over time, you learn to transfer those feelings into other parts of your life. You learn to calmly observe situations and chose your response rather than thoughtlessly react because you've been practicing that in the hot room. Bikram yoga gives you control over your choices, which of course gives you control over your life, and as Bikram would say, "your screw loose brain!"
How have you seen students change by doing Bikram Yoga?
I've seen people become more joyful. I've seen backs heal that used to give chronic pain, even with drugs. I've seen doctors wowed by how fast knees recouped after surgery. There's also the weight loss and dramatic increase in flexibility and physical strength.
Why do you teach Bikram Yoga?
I teach for many reasons, so I'll just mention a few. I want to share this gift I've found with others because everyone deserves a healthy body and a happy mind. Truly, I believe that when people do yoga the world is a better place not just for that person, but for their families, their co-workers and their community. Finally, I teach because I love the practice and I learn so much from my students about perseverance, determination and commitment.
KATY DOLAN
When did you go to Teacher Training?
Fall 2010 in San Diego!
Where are you from?
Annapolis, MD
What was your first class like?
I remember going through moments of liking it and moments of thinking these people were crazy. But that feeling I got after class was indescribable, like the runners high I always thought was a myth.
How often do you practice Bikram Yoga?
Daily
Why did you start Bikram Yoga?
I started coming infrequently to stay in shape, but got more and more hooked the more I came.
How long have you been practicing Bikram Yoga?
November 2009
What are some long term and short term benefits of Bikram Yoga?
This yoga makes you more aware of what your putting into your body because you want to get the best out of your body and feel your best during class. In general, this yoga inspires you and as a result you live a happier, healthier lifestyle.
How have you seen students change by doing Bikram Yoga?
As a teacher, it is amazing to see changes in students. Not only do you see dramatic improvements in postures (especially beginners), but you also see their confidence in themselves grow.
KATIE SHEWBRIDGE
When did you go to Teacher Training?
Fall 2010 in San Diego, CA
Where are you from?
Severna Park, Maryland
What was your first class like?
Long and hot. I wanted to leave 20 minutes into it. But I stepped out of the hot room and felt so amazing and refreshed (a feeling that cannot be described until you experience it yourself!) that I have continued to practice just about every day since (with a short break to finish my college degree).
How often do you practice Bikram Yoga?
7-10 times a week
Why did you start Bikram Yoga?
I was a dancer and always had a consistent exercise routine, but wanted to try something different. I remember before I took my first class, I was concerned with the heat, but also that it might be too relaxing and not a hard enough workout- I was SO wrong! Hands down, it's the best workout for not only the total body, but also for the mind and soul.
How long have you been practicing Bikram Yoga?
Since June 23, 2009
What are some long term and short term benefits of Bikram Yoga?
Oh, there are endless benefits from yoga! To name just a few of my favorites: Mind/body connection, major stress-reducer, eating healthier, sleeping better, increased energy, stamina, flexibility, strength, and focus, and most important of all, happiness and a sense of self-realization.
How have you seen students change by doing Bikram Yoga?
Only for the better. Never a negative story from practicing this yoga :)
PHIL VENDEMMIA
When did you go to Teacher Training?
Fall, 2010
Where are you from?
Maryland
What was your first class like?
The worst experience ever. My first impression of class was "too hot, too long, and I can't do anything right." After a week of consistent practice, I couldn't get enough!
How often do you practice Bikram Yoga?
Six times or more a week
Why did you start Bikram Yoga?
Very simply, I found that other forms of exercise HURT your body. When I was 30, my joints started to feel really sore from running and lifting so I tried yoga at a local studio. They used props and spoke about spirits. They burned incense in class, but I burned no calories in class. Luckily, after that odd experience, I read an article that said "Bikram yoga heals your body while burning 800-1300 calories every session" and now, at age 33, I've never felt better! I'm stronger, more flexible, and more energetic than the 29-year-old gym rat grunting his way through those silly bench presses.
How long have you been practicing Bikram Yoga?
November 2007
What are some long term and short term benefits of Bikram Yoga?
I was trained as a pianist from age 6, and my posture suffered as a result of this, giving me upper back pain and stiffness. Working at a computer and driving a lot did not help this either, but the consistent practice of Bikram Yoga has completely taken away my back pain. My whole body has become stronger and leaner and my skin has never been clearer. Most importantly, this yoga has taught me patience and relaxation outside the room, making me a happier person all around.
How have you seen students change by doing Bikram Yoga?
I am amazed at how quickly priorities can change for most people after doing Bikram Yoga for a few weeks. Students have mentioned to me that they have no more "appointment reality television" because their health is now more important. Students always talk about how their diets change and how they eat food that will supply them with energy for the next day's class. "I'm now eating to live, not living to eat." one student said. My favorite quote from a student at the Severna Park studio was "This yoga makes you love your life."
AIDANORA OSORNO
When did you go to Teacher Training?
Fall 2010 San Diego (the best teacher training ever!!)
Where are you from?
Born in Miami, FL. Grew up in Severna Park, MD
What was your first class like?
It was packed. Wall to wall people! I thought it was weird how someone spoke the whole time and there was no music. I tried mostly everything I think. It was hard but I was hooked. It was love at first sweat.
How often do you practice Bikram Yoga?
6 days a week. I shoot for at least one double a week-more if possible!
Why did you start Bikram Yoga?
To lose weight. I was on a diet for my upcoming 25th Birthday and one of my co-workers told me how you lost 3 lbs water weight from just one class. I looked up the nearest studio and went.
How long have you been practicing Bikram Yoga?
I started on March 3rd 2009.
What are some long term and short term benefits of Bikram Yoga?
Short term, your body feels so great after taking just one class. I felt so cleansed getting all the toxins out. You leave class feeling healthier. Long term, I have seen my body change since I began to practice regularly, I am leaner all around. I have also seen my flexibility and strength change 180 degrees. It's amazing!
How have you seen students change by doing Bikram Yoga?
My favorite is seeing someone's first class and seeing how they evolve from there. The changes are so dramatic. The best part is when you see someone reach a new point in their practice, like when they are finally able to lock their knee or go down all the way in camel. The boundaries are endless in the hot room and it's a true joy to witness.
MAX ROSENBERG
When did you go to Teacher Training?
Fall 2010
Where are you from?
Bethesda, Maryland
What was your first class like?
Very interesting. I don’t remember it too well; I just remember it being hot and hard to follow. I couldn’t understand why I couldn’t keep my arms over my head! The postures were so difficult…it was unlike anything I had ever done before.
How often do you practice Bikram Yoga?
7 or more classes per week
Why did you start Bikram Yoga?
I started at first because my mom encouraged me to. However, I only grew to enjoy it once I started studying exercise physiology in college; Everything I was learning was so relevant, and I found that I could study for school by thinking about all the things that were going on in my body during class. So it started as a VERY effective study method.
How long have you been practicing Bikram Yoga?
Since the beginning of 2009
What are some long term and short term benefits of Bikram Yoga?
Short term benefits include increased sense of well-being and a feeling of internal cleanliness. This internal cleanliness feels so good that students will often avoid eating unhealthy foods in order to prolong it. As a result, eating habits improve, and students become more aware of healthy foods and healthy eating. Long term benefits are so vast that several pages could be filled, so I’ll focus on a few big ones: Musculoskeletal issues that plague the lives of many people often vanish or improve with consistent practice. There are so many amazing testimonials from students who thought their issue could not improve—even after trying many different therapies, doctors, surgeries, etc—who had their pain/imbalance completely disappear with Bikram yoga. It is endless…come in and try a class, ask us to explain more.
How have you seen students change by doing Bikram Yoga?
Students often lose weight and get healthier looking skin. Acne/skin problems go away and are replaced by a beautiful Bikram glow. Poor posture improves and students often stand up straighter—many of them appear taller as a result. But some of the coolest changes happen at the mental/psychological level—students are more relaxed, happier, smiley, and pleasant as they continue to practice consistently. Stress and tension MELTS out of their lives and they are able to keep their cool under situations that may have caused them to “flip out” in the past (aka life pre-Bikram yoga). It’s very cool to watch.
Why do you teach Bikram Yoga?
Before getting into the why, let me just say that this is the best job in the world. Bikram yoga is one of my passions, and is the only other thing (besides food) that I could talk about all day/everyday/non-stop for days. It’s such a brilliant system for healing and bringing balance to the mind/body/spirit. I have felt and experienced the capacity of this yoga to bring health and wellness to a whole new level! And I want to share it with anyone willing to listen. I love helping people realize their potential and encouraging them toward being healthy and happy! So far, Bikram yoga is the most effective ends to those means that I have discovered…so here I am.
KATE BELLOTTE
When did you go to Teacher Training?
Spring 2011
Where are you from?
Davidsonville, Maryland
What was your first class like?
The main thing I remember about my first class is saying to myself, "I ran the Baltimore Marathon a few months ago so I can make it through class"
How often do you practice Bikram Yoga?
As often as possible, I try to go everyday but usually about 6-7 times a week. In a perfect world I would go twice a day! Doubles are the best!
Why did you start Bikram Yoga?
My friend Megan asked me to go because her husband had given her a gift certificate. It didn't take much convincing because it was right around the Christmas Holidays and I felt like I was packing on the pounds. I have played sports all my life. Played Division one lacrosse at the University of Maryland and after College continued to play club lacrosse and started to really get into running. Long distance running was taking a toll on my knees and hips in conjunction to all the sports I played over the years, so i needed a different way to work out that was also challenging!
How long have you been practicing Bikram Yoga?
Since the end of December 2009. Did my first 60 day challenge January 1st, 2010!
What are some long term and short term benefits of Bikram Yoga?
Short term I immediately felt more energy. I started to need less sleep but sleep better through the night. I gave up caffeine in the first month of taking Bikram Yoga, found myself drinking a lot more water. I have always been a pretty healthy eater, but found myself being every more conscience of what I was eating to prepare for class. I found myself becoming more in tune with my mind body connection and what my body really needed. In the long term, Bikram Yoga has helped me have a more confident and healthy attitude overall with my self and my body image. I find that I maintain a healthy normal weight just buy going to class. The Yoga really gives your body what it needs. I have also found I am more relaxed and calmer in many situations.
How have you seen students change by doing Bikram Yoga?
I see students change a lot in the same ways I have. I see students develop a sense of self confidence that they may not have had when the first came into the Yoga room. I see some students who dont' want to look up in the mirror when they first come into the room, but over time start to see focus on themselves for the whole 90 minutes. I see students who come to class saying they can't touch their toes being able to grab their heels months later. It truly is amazing!
Why do you teach Bikram Yoga?
I teach Bikram Yoga because I am so thankful for how Bikram Yoga has changed my life. I feel like I learned something that I cannot imagine my life without it. I don't want to keep it a secrete from anyone! I want to be able to give people the special gift that I feel was given to me the first day I stepped into the Yoga room. I truly love it so much I want everyone to feel as great as I do and I can't imagine a better way to share it.
MARY RICARDS
When did you go to Teacher Training?
Fall 2008 in Acapulco, Mexico
Where are you from?
San Luis Obispo, California
What was your first class like?
My first class was was love at first sight. I walked out of the room literally feeling like I was floating- I was hooked.
How often do you practice Bikram Yoga?
I practice Bikram Yoga 6+ times a week.
Why did you start Bikram Yoga?
I started Bikram Yoga because I had lower back pain. Also my sister and mom have thyroid problems and arthritis. I knew these ailments run in the family, so I got an early start on preventative medicine. I had tried other types of yoga, but Bikram gave me the most benefits quickly.
How long have you been practicing Bikram Yoga?
Since December 2004
What are some long term and short term benefits of Bikram Yoga?
Short term benefits are mental clarity, you feel great, get a toned body, and have flexible hamstrings. Long term benefits are a healthy spine (no back pain, no more sciatica), balanced endocrine system, strength in muscles you never knew you had, and incredible flexibility. The list could go on and on... but you get the point.
How have you seen students change by doing Bikram Yoga?
I notice how students bodies change doing Bikram Yoga. People get thinner, their bodies morph and re-arrange. I also notice a huge change in their energy. They smile so much more and are more relaxed. People honestly look different after practicing Bikram Yoga, like they got a face-lift and spent all day at the spa.
Why do you teach Bikram Yoga?
I teach Bikram Yoga because it changed my life. Yoga gives you an opportunity to take health into your own hands. I like to see people taking responsibility for their health and well-being. I have always been interested in chronic pain and degenerative diseases. I’m interested in health care and medicine. Yoga is one of the oldest medicines around and it is fun to see it come back by popular demand.