Sara Armendariz

I believe that yoga is a force that found me. At just fifteen, I was introduced to the practice through Carol Carnes and Iyengar Yoga in El Paso, Texas—long before yoga became mainstream. As the youngest student in a small studio, I quickly developed a passion for inclusivity in yoga, believing that everyone, regardless of age or ability, should have access to yoga and its benefits. My love for props began here, as they became essential tools for making yoga accessible and allowing the body to feel supported and therefore able to open and relax deeper.

Throughout my teenage years, I discovered moments of peace and clarity through her practice, providing a refuge during challenging times. This connection to yoga deepened when I attended Naropa University, a Buddhist liberal arts school in Boulder Colorado, where I earned a Bachelor’s in Traditional Eastern Arts with a concentration in Yoga. Serving as a Teacher’s Assistant to Natarja Kalio for four years, I explored diverse styles and methodologies while getting to practice my teaching skills. I also worked closely with Claudia Kuhns, who is a Junior Advanced Iyengar Teacher, during these years learning many aspects of restorative yoga and its health benefits in dealing with AIDS patients. 

Though I initially resisted the call to teach, life ultimately guided me in that direction. Today, my heart lies in teaching restorative, somatic-based yoga, where I passionately guide others toward rest and ease without effort. As a bodyworker as well, I love being able to guide bodies into a posture with more ease and alignment through touch. I also hold a deep love and respect for Bikram Yoga, appreciating its intensity and discipline. Grateful for the journey that yoga has provided me, I am dedicated to sharing the practices that have profoundly shaped my life.

--"expand or die..."