While most Americans may understand the reasons we commemorate Memorial Day, many may not be aware that May is Military Appreciation Month. To this end, Ashburn’s Bikram Yoga has decided to honor those who have given everything for their country by donating weekend profits to ThanksUSA, a charitable organization that provides scholarships to military families.

“All of our Memorial Day weekend proceeds will be going to ThanksUSA,” said Tara Henderson of Bikram Yoga Ashburn.

Jim Ambrogi, a former U.S. Army Ranger and Bikram instructor in Alexandria, initiated the program and challenged other Bikram studios to participate. While serving in the Army for 22 years, Ambrogi suffered several combat injuries, resulting in a 60 percent disability rating from the Veterans Administration. To combat his physical condition, he turned to Bikram, becoming a top master and mentor to dozens of instructors in the Washington, DC, area.

“I discovered the healing powers of Bikram yoga firsthand when I turned to the discipline to help me recover from my debilitating wounds. I became healthy and strong again both physically and emotionally,” Ambrogi explained. “Now, with Bikram, I can also help others, many of whom are vets just like me.”

Bikram yoga, or “hot yoga,” combines traditional yoga with high heat and humidity in the studio. Tara Henderson explained that rooms are set to 105 degrees with 45 percent humidity. The class lasts 90 minutes, longer than traditional one-hour yoga classes.

“It’s a challenge for a lot of people, but it’s beneficial because you are sweating out toxins and getting your blood flowing and mind focused, while stretching and strengthening your body,” Henderson said.

The heat helps to protect people from injury, because the muscles in your body are much more relaxed. Bikram yoga goes further by offering mental healing as well as physical healing.

“A lot of people come here for mental release; to let go of things going on outside of the studio,” said Henderson.

Many of Bikram Yoga Ashburn’s students are spouses of active duty military or are former military themselves. Taking part in the fundraiser for ThanksUSA is just one way for the studio to give back to the community.

“We want them to know they are supported here,” Henderson said.

ThanksUSA provides scholarships to military families, based on need. Since 2006, they have awarded 2,200 scholarships totaling more than $6 million.

“It’s only a dent,” said Michele Stork, ThanksUSA’s executive director. “There is a lot more need out there than we can reach right now.”

Stork, who has taken Bikram yoga classes from Ambrogi himself, appreciates the studios’ help.

“We are grateful for the support of Bikram Choudhury, Jim Ambrogi and many Bikram Yoga studios nationwide. With their support we’ll be able to help more military families in our communities here and across the nation,” she said. “We salute Jameliah Penfield, the owner of the Ashburn studio, for joining the campaign by asking her students to stretch open their wallets in support of our troops and their families.”

So far, twenty-five Bikram studios across the country are taking part in the fundraising event. Stork is hopeful that there will be participants from each of the 50 states.

Anyone interested in taking a class this weekend, you may visit Bikram Yoga Ashburn to reserve your spot. In addition to proceeds from classes, participants may contribute additional donations that Bikram will direct to ThanksUSA.