Sonya Hollenthoner
Inner Fire Yogi since 2013
My yoga story began over a decade ago when I was searching for a low impact activity after reconstructive knee surgery. My days of competitive high intensity sports came to an end, and my life changed. I always considered myself an athlete and only heard about the yoga world through my mom – she was dedicated to Kundalini yoga. Back then, I didn’t think this practice was for me in any way shape or form. I needed something faster and more exciting – an adrenaline rush, you could say!
I heard through the grapevine there was a yoga class at Inner Fire Yoga for Athletes with type A personalities, called 90-Minute Bikram Hot Yoga. One day I gave in, and afterwards I decided what I heard was true! I got hooked quickly. I couldn’t deny how much I loved the physical challenge and how refreshed my body felt afterwards. This was just the beginning, though, because I was only physically present. I showed up and left quickly, no small talk, and I still didn’t think I was a “yogi.”
There was a lapse, but upon returning many years later I was relieved when Karen Rigsby recognized me. I was so happy to be back, as I needed a place to go during the long winter nights. I was ready to do this again but in a different way. I kind of went all in! I signed up for all the classes including yin and slow flow, fit in the maximum I could in a week, and started to really expand my yoga experience. And that meant also embracing the yoga community.
My yoga journey really started to change last winter when I was chosen for one of the scholarships. Others saw the potential yogi in me and this gift gave me the confidence to see and feel it for myself. The studio became my second home where I felt part of a team, which I really missed. There were more smiles, more laughter, and a longing to see my new friends in class.
When given the opportunity to become an Inner Fire Yoga brand Ambassador, my journey evolved yet again, in a way that has changed my daily life outside of the studio. I am ready to bring everyone to Yoga! There is usually always a way to talk about the benefits of yoga in a conversation and this is just another challenge for me that I love. It’s fun deciding on the appropriate class/instructor for individuals coming to the studio for the first time. Of course it’s easy to choose some of my favorites like Dr. Ruddy’s Original Hot 90, Dar’s Slow Flow & Yin, Hally’s slow flow, and Hannah’s Inner Fire Flow.
Practicing yoga regularly benefits me in many ways, especially with my patience and ability to slow down and reevaluate what is most important. I've noticed that I can more easily stay calm in stressful situations, taking a moment to decide how I would like to respond. There is also a busy bee in me. I put a lot of pressure on myself to be as productive as possible each day, never allowing naps, and rating the day on how much I get done. Yoga makes me slow down and focus on breathing. One of my greatest challenges is to be mentally present as my mind wanders, and yoga class is a great reminder of where I am emotionally.
My eyes are closed (as much as they can be and never during hot of course ha!) because this helps me stay focused, I’ve learned to do yoga in a way that works best for me. It is a very personal and private space that you share with others and everyone is on their own journey.
The diversity at Inner Fire Yoga attracts me. I believe it’s unique in that way. There are endless opportunities to meet people if you are open to it. Starting with just a simple hello, the friendships that can bloom are really special. My IFY community has been a beautiful shoulder to lean on through many difficult times in the last few months and I’m thankful everyday for my sincere and compassionate yogi friends. Laying on my mat before class I am at peace, smiling inside, knowing I am surrounded by positive energy and with the ability to connect with everyone around me.
Namaste