Yoga Is Not Just For
Adults
And that’s what Madeline Lu, 11, proved when she participated
in the 2nd Annual Bikram Yoga Championship in Singapore on
18th October last year. And Madeline has represented Singapore
in the International Bikram Yoga Championship in Los Angeles
in February 2009 under the Youth category, and won the 4th
place.
 Most
kids at Madeline’s age have gotten used to their school-homework-computer
routine that they tend to neglect the fitness component, which
gives them an all-rounded lifestyle. As such, most kids these
days tip the scales and do not care much about healthy eating.
And with society demanding paper qualifications, kids are
stressed to make the grade in school.
So how did Madeline end up doing Bikram Yoga?
Madeline’s mother, Myint Yi, 49, started Bikram Yoga
in July 2007 and benefited much from the yoga classes. So
when the September school holidays came along and Myint Yi
couldn’t leave Madeline alone at home, she asked if
Madeline wanted to go for class with her and she agreed.
“My first Bikram Yoga class was a totally new experience
for me. I used to play badminton as a form of exercise but
I don’t anymore as I see more benefits practising Bikram
Yoga. To me, it’s the best form of exercise.”
“I also used to do gymnastics but could never touch
my head to my knee when doing splits. Ever since practising
Bikram Yoga, I’ve become much more flexible!”
Madeline was previously overweight and would just scrape
through her physical fitness test with a bronze. Apart from
weight problems, Madeline’s health was not very good
– she would get sick often and absent herself from school.
All of these are now of the past as Madeline is of a good
fitness level and in the pink of health, plus she sleeps much
better now too.
Even academically, Madeline shines. With Bikram Yoga improving
her concentration in class, she is able to excel and always
scores Band 1 for Maths.
Madeline is also much closer to her mother now.
“I didn’t talk very much to her last time. She
would do her own things and I would do mine. Now, we are much
closer as we go for classes together and talk about the yoga
poses. We even see who can do it better!”
How is that for quality mother-daughter bonding?
With the international championship drawing near, Madeline
has been practising hard so that she can do Singapore proud.
Mom, the instructors and Ms Diane Lee, Director of Bikram
Yoga City Hall have been very encouraging. Even the members
are great motivators of Madeline, showering her with lots
of encouragement. It is certainly heartwarming for Madeline
to have such a supportive community in Bikram Yoga City Hall.
So what lies ahead for our junior yogini?
“I love animals! Hopefully I can be a vet someday,
or have a job which is related to animals.”
At the rate Madeline’s going – improved concentration,
better grades, stronger motivation… I say we have a
vet in the making.
................................................................................
Bikram Yoga City Hall
252 North Bridge Road
#02-14 Raffles City Shopping Centre
Singapore 179103
Tel: 6339 6639
Email: info@bikramyoga.com.sg
|
