Hi, I’m Mackenna! 

I am so happy to be part of the Inner Fire Yoga community. Yoga has been such a  transformative part of my life, and I’m grateful to be returning to it with new appreciation and excitement.  

I first discovered yoga during my freshmen year of college. I took a yoga class for elective  credit and enjoyed getting to learn all the different poses throughout the semester. That winter I was struggling with intense anxiety and was searching for something to help with the physical pain that anxiety was causing. I started practicing  meditation regularly and found a 30-day yoga challenge on YouTube and decided to give it a try. After completing the challenge, I was hooked. I started doing longer flows each morning, and yoga became a part of my daily routine. I found that it helped me feel connected to my body in such a way that no other style of movement had been done previously. I was able to feel strong, flexible, and a sense of peace. 

A few years later, I took time off of school to travel and connect more with myself. During  my travels I decided to go to Rishikesh to get my Yoga Teacher Training. It was  an incredible experience to immerse myself in yoga at the place from which it originated. It deepened my understanding of yoga as more than just physical practice. I learned the complexities of the postures and breathwork techniques, and met so many amazing, inspiring people.  

After returning home I began teaching a few yoga classes at a small studio in my  hometown. It was challenging for me, but I really got to know my personal strengths in teaching. I found I really shined when guiding meditation during practice. I would love to teach yoga classes again someday if/when I am given the opportunity to do so.

Not long after this, I severely injured my ankle. This resulted in a long period of rest  and recovery, and a long break from yoga. This was a difficult time for me, as I felt  disconnected from my practice and my body for quite some time. During that pause, I felt such an appreciation for the ability to move my body. Now I have a renewed appreciation for yoga and all of the poses I can now do.

I’m so excited to continue growing, healing, and practicing here at Inner Fire Yoga— and to share space with such a kind and inspiring community.