I was introduced to Bikram Yoga before I was diagnosed with severe hip osteoarthritis. Within the first session I found my joints reduced their mysterious pains. During pregnancy I practiced Bikram's form for pregnancy and kept my strength and flexibility well throughout my term. After I gave birth I continued with the normal set of Bikram Yoga which helped my post baby figure! At this time I was diagnosed with severe osteoarthritis of the hips which meant that I needed both hips replaced at the age of 32.

Before the operation my practice of yoga helped with pain management as well as sanity management! I returned to Bikram Yoga two months after the operation of the first hip and have continued to practice right up until the second operation which is imminent. This form of yoga is not only eminently suited to the restrictions of a hip prosthesis, but it is perfect for keeping up strength, flexibility and cardiovascular fitness when hard -impact exercise cannot be performed.

My operated hip is now more flexible than ever before in my life (even as a young child), and I feel that the long-term practice of Bikram Yoga will help me prevent injury and keep me safely flexible and strong. My current arthritic hip has been kept strong with my yoga practice, and I am really looking forward to continuing my practice after my second operation.

Apart from the hip problems, Bikram Yoga has helped me lose weight, return to a more healthy lifestyle, and keep relaxed and sane when the stress of a hectic and sometimes emotionally draining life would otherwise have led to problems! The Yoga Tree(Melbourne, Australia) Bikram yoga teachers are empathetic, well qualified trainers and teachers and certainly know how to impart their love of this form of yoga to their students.

- Niqi