What is I Am Wellness?

Published July 4, 2024 at 12:25 PM MST

Introduction

On a recent warm weekday morning in Yuma, a group of women gathered for a yoga class. While yoga classes are common in Yuma County, bilingual instructions in English and Spanish are unique to I Am Wellness, a holistic studio for the Latino community.

Founders’ Vision

Co-founder Krizia Godinez, who also hosts Radio Sin Fronteras in Somerton, explains, “What we offer at I Am Wellness is a holistic studio for the Latino community. We offer several classes including yoga, barralates, sculpt and strength, and more.” Fellow co-founder Lola Garcia Bustamante adds, “We share our classes in our mother language (Spanish) to create a safe space.”

Community and Mental Health

Participants appreciate the sense of sisterhood and mental health benefits. Bernadette Sosa joined to combat anxiety and depression, saying, “I would tell people to join. Besides helping you physically, it helps you mentally as well. You bond with people and it’s really nice to have it all here.” Eleonora Gomez emphasizes inclusivity, “It doesn’t matter if you’ve never done yoga or exercised before. If you want to improve yourself, come here and they will help you. It’s a beautiful community and all experience levels are welcome.”

Growth and Future Plans

The founders have expanded their team and now stream classes for members. Lori Jones, who led a recent class, describes the community as “an oasis for spiritual growth, healing, and support.” I Am Wellness opened in 2022, inspired by the need for connection post-COVID-19. Garcia reflects, “During COVID, we disconnected from others, so we want to reconnect with ourselves.” The studio now offers retreats and summer camps for kids.

For more information on I Am Wellness, visit iamwellnessstudio.com.

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