500HR YTT

Graduating from hair school in 2012, I began working in a barbershop, spending the next decade specializing in men's haircuts and straight razor shaves. In 2014, two years into my barbering career, a woman walked into our shop offering a free yoga class at a newly opened studio across the street. Intrigued, I attended my first Bikram class, and the experience left me feeling energized and invigorated—I was instantly hooked. I began attending classes regularly, and after two years, I realized I wanted to explore beyond the 26 postures of Bikram yoga. This led me to pursue my 500-hour teacher training in Costa Rica in 2016, a transformative experience that sparked deep questions about my life and purpose.

Why am I here?

What is this thing we call "life" really about ?

What is my purpose?

Do I really see myself barbering for the rest of my life?

Upon returning home, these questions lingered, and the universe responded. I'm deeply attuned to universal signs, so when I arrived at Gold's Gym and found myself parked next to a vehicle advertising a new yoga studio I had never heard of, I couldn't ignore the synchronicity. I took it as a clear sign and was instantly intrigued! I called and inquired about teaching opportunities. After a passionate interview, I was hired as an instructor at Ora Fitness and Yoga, which became my home when it finally opened in 2019. I gradually transitioned from barbering to teaching group fitness and yoga full-time as an employee with full benefits, eventually transitioning and focusing solely on yoga. However, as I overextended myself physically in the hot room, I began shifting towards teaching more restorative practices like breathwork, meditation, and hosting workshops.

The COVID-19 pandemic brought unexpected challenges, but I was fortunate to maintain financial stability as an employee, creating online content and teaching virtual classes. However, the constant hustle took its toll, I remember thinking to myself, as everyone else was laid off and had time to relax, how nice it would be to have that same opportunity to just sit at home and unwind (Be careful what you wish for and what you ask of the universe, because it will surely respond—just not always in the way you expected) A wrist injury from Acro Yoga forced me to rest at home and re-evaluate my approach to work and self-care. As businesses began to reopen, I embraced a new chapter by becoming a self-employed contractor, allowing me to reach more communities and diversify my teaching.

When multiple people asked me to lead a teacher training, I took it as a clear sign from the angels—especially since I'm a firm believer in following the signs the universe sends. I connected with Tarryl from West Coast Hot Yoga and began leading three different trainings with the team. This opportunity led me to discover "Yoga Trade," a platform where I found a unique YTT offering in Peru. After applying and being hired, I now find myself in the jungle town of Moyobamba, completing my first round of 200-hour graduates and preparing for the next training.

I’ll be here until November 29, 2024, leading four different trainings with opportunities to travel during my two week breaks. During this time, I'm also focusing on building my online presence to stay connected with my community back home. I miss you all and am excited to share my offerings online. Your support means the world to me as I continue to pursue my dreams and extend my heart to more people through the internet.

With all my love,
Kamila