Lara Estrada

Lara Estrada

Founder and Owner, Yoga Bliss

she/her

Fall 2022

Lara had always been curious about Yoga and eventually took her first class as part of a meditation course during her undergraduate studies at UC Berkeley. She continued to explore vinyasa classes as a method of connecting with her body and mind for physical fitness and spiritual well-being. With previous experience in athletics and dance, Lara particularly enjoyed the lyrical nature and technical aspects of vinyasa. After completing her 200-hour teacher training through YogaWorks in Costa Mesa, Lara spent several months doing volunteer work and backpacking abroad throughout Thailand, Laos, Australia, Japan and the Philippines. Upon returning from her travels, Lara decided to settle in Los Angeles. She started teaching yoga at studios, gyms, and with private clients. Lara completed her 300-hour teacher training in the beautiful land of Bali through Mukti Yoga School. During this trip, she envisioned creating her own yoga studio. A couple years later, that wish came true and Yoga Bliss was born in 2015. Lara loves teaching dynamic vinyasa classes, as well as nurturing restorative classes. She emphasizes presence, mindfulness, and connection to spirit. Lara encourages everyone to seek fulfillment and joy in their yoga practice, as well as in every aspect of their lives.

We would love to hear your story. Please share your journey on what inspired you to do the work you are doing and anything you've learned along the way.

I entered my yoga teacher training in 2009 with no intention of ever teaching. Upon completion of my certification, I was inspired to teach and share the benefits of yoga with others. As I taught at other studios and gyms and with private clients, my passion for sharing yoga grew. I started to envision having my own studio one day. I was inspired and felt so fulfilled by seeing the positive benefits of yoga with my clients. I loved the idea of yoga being my full-time career, and no longer having to have an office job. When I signed the lease for my yoga studio in Westchester in 2015, I continued to work full-time to fund the startup period of my business. As the community and business grew, I was able to leave my corporate job and go full-time on Yoga Bliss. I've learned so much in the process of owning a studio. One of the greatest things I've learned is that it is possible to create a career and business out of something you are passionate about.

How has having a physical wellness space impacted your wellbeing and/or your community's wellbeing?

Yoga and meditation are such powerful practices. Many clients have shared about the benefits they've felt from practicing yoga, as well as being part of the community. There are simple joys like making friends at the studio. Other clients have shared how relaxing yoga classes help them get better rest and sleep, or how they feel stronger and more flexible from their practice. People have shared how yoga benefits their mental health. Creating a safe and welcoming space for all has had a healing impact on our community.

How can people best support your work?

Others can best support our work by being involved with our yoga community, through taking classes, attending workshops and events, and spreading the word about our studio.

How can people access your space, attend classes or workshops, etc.?

All of our events and classes can be found on our website, and you can sign up for them online here: yogabliss-studio.com

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