Amber - Bikram, One day at a time, 90 days later

I find it hard to believe that 3 months ago today my life changes started to begin. In some ways three months seems like a long time, but three months in nearly 30 years of life, is really just a small percentage of time. It's amazing to me how small decisions in life have a domino affect in just about everything you do. For me, it's changed friendships - some stronger, some now weaker. It's changed my level of appreciation for things. It's helped my patience, although some days I have to question that still.

I was folding laundry yesterday when I heard Joel Osteen come on TV. For those of you who don't know who he is, Joel is a Evangelist. While I do have faith, I am normally against this style of preaching. However, yesterday morning his message was one that I was able to connect with more than ever. He talked about God having a huge plan for us, but often we stick to a narrow path. We become creatures of habit. We only socialize with those of similar interests. We pre-judge opportunities to do something. We are quick to say, "I won't like that," before ever trying. He talked about small things like that path that he runs every day is the same. One day, he decided to turn the other way. It was an eye-opening experience, literally. He talked about getting out of the comfort zone and trying new things. He told story after story personifying his message.

Three months ago today, I went out of my comfort zone and so many things are changing. For me, it was Bikram yoga, no drinking, and no smoking. It was changing my lifestyle. Making my moments with people true memories and conversations. It's about getting beyond the surface and getting to know myself in the process. I believe that things happen in our lives for a reason. People enter and exit. Opportunities come and go. It is truly about the old Latin saying "Carpe Diem." I don't know what is in store tomorrow, but I do know that my decisions today will impact tomorrow. I am thankful I have let go of my fears of change because the world it has opened for me is amazing.

I would imagine that most people that walk into Bikram yoga for the first time, don't realize the impact it will make on them if they let it. I had no idea the first time I went in there that it would affect me the way it has. I had no idea when I signed up for that first month that it was going to become a lifestyle. I went in to work out and hopefully drop some weight. I read the testimonials on Bikramyoga.com. So one day at a time, Bikram yoga has changed my life.

Joel Osteen ended his sermon challenging everyone to try something new, to go a different way, to get uncomfortable. What will you do?