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Sometimes yoga testimonials can seem unbelievable. Could yoga really help the body repair itself enough to not need surgery?

But for Christa O’Harrow, it’s quite true. Four years ago when some knee problems flared up after her years of jogging, a friend gave her advice that would change everything.

“I required a knee operation and actually was scheduled for one when a friend suggested I try Bikram yoga instead,” Christa said.

At the time, Bikram Yoga Pensacola had just opened. “Not wanting to have the operation in the first place, I gave it a try,” she said. “The best decision I ever made!”

Not only did her newfound Bikram practice improve her knee problems, but also eliminated the need for the operation.

“I absolutely love the practice,” Christa said. “It’s not only beneficial for my body but also my mind.”

Before she discovered Bikram, Christa practiced hatha yoga and Baron Baptiste hot yoga. About 20 years ago, she sought out yoga for some of the reasons people usually do.

“I needed to improve my posture,” she said. “Sitting bent over a computer most days, along with dealing with a stressful career, I needed some relief.”

And, as usual, yoga provided that and more. “It changes your outlook on life,” Christa said. “For me, I became much happier and more grateful for being alive.”

Less than a year ago, Christa became a beautiful addition to Sterling Hot Yoga & Wellness. (She even moved to be closer to us!)

“I moved to Mobile for a number of reasons, one being Sterling Hot Yoga,” she said. After Bikram Yoga Pensacola closed, she found Sterling’s environment to be “friendly and inviting” and the teachers “knowledgeable and helpful.”

Being closer to the studio helps Christa get more of the practice that her body craves.

“Honestly, it’s my lifeline. I need it,” she said. “I travel a lot and my body revolts after missing a week or two of Bikram. My joints ache and my knees act up.  For me, it’s the best way to keep old age at bay.”

Christa had her doubts about whether original hot yoga—the standard 26 postures and two breathing exercises—was the best way to prevent the aches and pains of aging. But, of course, consistency with the practice proved to her otherwise.

She said even the slower pace of the practice encouraged her to come back. “The yoga I practiced before Bikram was fast-paced flow, and as I aged, my ability to move slowed, so Bikram was perfect!”

Christa credits a consistent practice with keeping her “young, mindful and grateful,” and she has some simple advice for new students considering yoga.

“Do yourself a favor and try it,” she said. “Your body and mind will be forever grateful.”

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