Esmeralda Camarena
Inner Fire Yogi since June 2013
In 2013, I was in a terrible car accident. My car was completely destroyed. From the outside I looked okay, but I was still taken to the hospital by ambulance. In the weeks that followed, bruises appeared everywhere, my whole body hurt, and the most serious impact wasn't physical — I developed intense anxiety about driving. I was referred to a psychologist, who told me I was dealing with a fear of dying and suggested I try yoga to help calm my mind.
One day on my way to work, I stopped by the Inner Fire Yoga west side studio in my sweatpants, not even realizing it was hot yoga. But from that very first class, I felt safe, welcomed, and supported.
"From that very first class, I felt safe, welcomed, and supported."
At Inner Fire Yoga, I've met lifelong friends. Everyone is friendly, encouraging, and genuine. And on the days when I just need to be in my own space, that's okay too — no judgment, just people showing up to get the best out of their practice. I'm also incredibly grateful for the East Side studio being so close to home.
Choosing one instructor is almost impossible because I truly love something about each of them. But if I have to pick: Jessica is my Sunday favorite, and Karen's Saturday class is worth every minute of the drive. Tony always makes me laugh by picking on me mid-class, and Hannah has become my sacred Tuesday afternoon ritual. See? It's impossible to choose — I honestly love them all, including the amazing staff.
Inner Fire Yoga has been a huge part of my healing, my growth, and my life. I'm so grateful to be part of this community.