CLAIM YOUR RADIANCE

Over 14 years ago I walked into the Brian’s studio because my chiropractor told me I had to do something to strengthen my core muscles if I wanted my back to get any better (L4/L5 disc issues), that and the intro offer was so cheap if I went to two classes and quit I would have gotten my money’s worth. Well, that was the best $30 bucks I ever spent, two years later and I am still going 3 – 4 times a week.

It was the 2nd anniversary of my practice with Brian is particularly special because it’s been over a year since I have had an “acute episode” or any kind of “episode” involving my back! I haven’t been able to say that in ten years.

I like the “No scene, no stress, simply yoga” aspect of the studio. The way Brian tends to each person’s individual needs is terrific.

Body Tonic SF has had a profound positive impact on my recovery and mental well being since I’ve been going class. and it’s only been three months. To say that the Brian and Body Tonic SF has been a game changer for me is an extreme understatement. Last December I broke my ankle and fractured my tibia in 13 places (it was a Pilon Fracture). I was non-weight bearing, on bed rest, for 3 months. That was followed by another 3 months of gradually increasing the amount of weight I could put on my left foot. That process took me from a walker, a knee scooter, crutches and finally a walking boot. On August 8, 2018 I went to my 8-month check-up with my surgeon and received a devastating diagnosis. That was that my range of motion would likely not improve EVER. At the same time my physical therapist discharged me from my weekly therapy because she felt there was no longer a value add to my recovery. It was a serendipitous 3 days later that someone in my apartment building who had seen me through my stages of recovery told me about the Body Tonic SF. I called Brian the next day. He asked about my injury and my recovery to date. Brian’s response was respectfully, he wouldn’t accept the diagnosis of the surgeon and that he could help. He said it would just take time and dedication on my part. I went to my first class that same day. I’ve been going to class regularly and have seen and felt a radical improvement in my ankle range of motion, the strength of my ankle and foot and my walking stamina. Before I started going to class, I was limited to a few block walking radius. Today, I don’t have those limitations. My journey so far has been fantastic and I am so thankful for my improvement. But what’s even more exciting and motivating is that I know my journey and recovery is really only starting now. I couldn’t be more appreciative of the amazing space and experience that the Body Tonic SF has given me.

I remember when this was taken. I certainly didn’t start yoga being able to do this. I remember being so stiff and out of shape that achieving this pose seemed impossible. I used to have a recurrent upper back injury and horribly painful and crackling knees, both of which were worsened by every day stress and being overweight.

When I first started practicing yoga at Body Tonic SF, a good portion of the poses had to be modified because of my injuries and limitations. I was quite wobbly, very stiff, and, thinking back, probably laughable. Through constant adjustment and coaching, Brian helped me to become stronger and more stable and to do more than I ever thought I could.

After just a month, I noticed my posture was better, I had more energy, and I generally just felt better.  After six months of going to class three to five times per week, I had lost 27 pounds and started re-shaping my whole body.  I was becoming stronger and more flexible each day, not to mention calmer and more focused in my daily life and yoga practice.  Over the next year and half, I continued to lose inches and build muscle in my hips, shoulders, arms, chest, ribs, stomach, and thighs.  Yes, getting into smaller sizes rocks! Through consistent practice, my whole body got stronger, my upper back no longer hurts, and daily stresses just don’t bother me the way they once did.

I don’t just love going to yoga, I look forward to it.  While many exercise trends, fads, programs come and go, I can see myself doing this for a life time.  Thanks Brian! You changed by life!!