How did you first discover Bikram yoga?
I have been physically active my entire adult life and primarily enjoyed cardio-intense activities such as running, hiking, and cycling. Yoga was never on my radar until 2018, when, during a solo trek in the Himalayas, I took a bad fall and tore the ligaments in my knee. Even after months of various treatments, I could not walk normally, and the pain was not going away. I came across Bikram Yoga after an extensive online search for another remedy, hoping the heat and stretching could help relieve the pain. Within a few weeks of practice, I noticed my knee mobility had improved, and the pain was dissipating. I have been “addicted” to it ever since.
What have you gained from your yoga practice?
Flexibility, of course. More importantly, body and mind alignment. Leading fast-paced lifestyles in Silicon Valley, we have endless deadlines and a million things on our to-do lists. Yoga practice is the “me” time where I can focus on breathing and meditation and acknowledge the existence of my physical being. After each class, my mind is cleared, my feet are grounded, and I am ready to embrace the stress coming my way.
What has been your greatest struggle or accomplishment?
To accept my imperfections. Earlier in my practice, I expected myself to reach certain levels with my effort, not realizing that we need to listen to and accept what our bodies can do in each practice. Many times, I was discouraged when I wasn’t able to do a posture correctly. I often remind myself what Instructor Sarah teaches us: “Take the action, and the result will take care of itself.” Yoga practice is a journey where we can enjoy the process of nourishing our body and mind.
What advice would you give new students or those struggling with their practice?
Striking a perfect posture is great, but the process of getting there is even more enjoyable.
What do you like to do outside of yoga?
I love to travel. So far, I have been to 28 countries and hope to visit more. Besides yoga, I enjoy backpacking, hiking, cycling, and strength training.
Min gets into Standing Bow Pulling pose on top of Half-Dome, Yosemite National Park. Top of page: Min visits Havana Cuba.