I’ve always hated my feet. Infact if I were able to”exchange” any of my body parts I’d choose my feet. While an adolescent I developed bunions. Most of the females on my mom’s side of the family also suffer from bunions, with mine being the worst.  When I was 19 my big and 1st toe were completely crossed, causing much pain and making it impossible to buy shoes.  It also interfered with my exercise and mobility.  I ended up having a double Bunionectomy.

Being self conscious about my feet has prevented me from fully enjoying many physical activities.  I also wear prescription orthotics.  After the surgery I chose to work out at the gym for years where my feet were hidden.  My podiatrist suggested I stay physically active by biking and swimming, which were much easier on my feet compared to jogging.

After practicing hot yoga for the past few months at Dynamic Fitness I feel lighter, leaner and longer.  I’m amazed at how much stronger my feet really are. I’ve been enjoying bare feet in the studio and at home! My ultra sensitive feet are being re-conditioned into high heels.  It’s true, even my best friend has noticed that I’ve been wearing them a lot lately.

The most challenging pose for me at Steve or Ericka’s hot yoga class is the chair pose on tip toes.  I feel comfortable with the chair pose, just not the tip toes. During each class I can feel more strength in my toes.  It’s also easier to make my high arches fall and spread my toes for strength poses.

The worst thing about having bunions is that they can grow back.  It’s been almost 10 years since my surgery and I’m on a waiting list for my next.  I'm not sure when that will happen, but afterwards I’ll be rushing back to Dynamic Fitness to condition my feet.