Where were you born and where did you grow up?
Born and raised in Dallas, TX, my name is Elene Velasquez.
How long have you been practicing Bikram Yoga and what prompted you to take your first Bikram Yoga class?
For the past 19 years, I have committed myself to mastering Bikram Yoga because it has helped me achieve better mental wellness despite former struggles with chronic stress and restless nights caused by insomnia until discovering this practice that changed everything! After completing an intensive nine-week instructor certification program held at in Los Angeles all way back 2013 – what many enthusiast refer to fondly as ‘yoga bliss’- not only did i become qualified but fell even more deeper love connection both teaching students about their own transformative experiences too!
Why did you become an instructor and what aspects of Bikram Yoga have had the greatest effect on you?
Each class I teach I have an opportunity to encounter someone who has never believed that they could _________. At some point in our lives any of us could fill in the blank with our perceived (typically self-imposed) limitation, or limitations. Or maybe we’ve allowed others to place limitations on us, for whatever reason. I’m here to tell you that you can. Healing, acceptance, strength, faith, determination, discipline and so much more!! You can!
What do you like to do when you are not in the yoga room?
When I’m not at the studio, I love to go dancing, bike riding, and having fun with my family. I am the proud mother of four and grandmother to Ace, and Ellie. As a dog lover, I encourage everyone to adopt from shelters.
What is your favorite pose in the Bikram series and why?
My favorite posture is Balancing Stick (Tuladandasana).
