Rising Stars: Meet Aimee Malgapo

Today we’d like to introduce you to Aimee Malgapo.

Hi Aimee, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I started teaching yoga two years ago after I received my certification through Awakened Warrior Yoga Teacher Training. I had practiced yoga for years as a student at various studios and wanted to share the love and confidence I found in myself through yoga with others. These past two years of teaching have been the best years of my life. I began my teaching career at a dance studio called Dance&Fitness4Life. I started my weekends with sun salutations every Saturday morning. From there, I worked at LA Fitness and a martial arts studio called North Valley Akikikai. When the covid crisis forced everyone to stay at home, I found peace and connection by continuing my classes online. It was my first time putting myself on screen, but the gratitude I received from my students brought me a lot of happiness and comfort during those tough times. Currently, I am continuing my classes in the park, maintaining a safe distance of six feet and encouraging students to wear masks. Since the closure of the gyms, some students have confided they prefer the outdoor classes and think this is the perfect way to teach yoga.

I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
No, the road has not been smooth. I am a fairly quiet, introverted person and teaching has definitely placed me out of my comfort zone. It has forced me to break out of my shell and be vulnerable and open. I have a lot of insecurities, but by making friends with students and providing them a place to feel safe, I have found a purpose to be a light for others. I think the greatest lesson I’ve learned is to surround yourself with the right people. Share your time with those who appreciate you and believe in you. There were days when I didn’t think anyone would come to my class. I would ask people I thought were friends who wouldn’t make time for me. Now I’ve learned that as long as you continue pursuing your passion, the right people will follow you along your journey. Most of all, believe in yourself. People will see the confidence in you and that will inspire them as well.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I teach a Vinyasa flow class. Some people have compared it to Power Yoga. It’s different from a typical yoga class in that it connects breath to movement and you move a little bit more quickly. I think that what separates me from other teachers is that I am open and inviting and really pay attention to the students so that I cater to their needs. Prior to covid, I was particularly proud of the creative workshops I would hold each month at the studio to bring new business and offer a creative outlet for yogis.

What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
I love that Los Angeles is diverse and you can meet people from anywhere. I love that there are so many places to explore, different foods to try, and usually a lot of fun events to experience. I feel like this is a city where anything can happen. What I do not enjoy is that Los Angeles seems to be known for having flaky and superficial people in the city. I try my best to be genuine and make actions with the best of intentions.

Contact Info:

• Email: [email protected]
• Instagram: Yogaintheparkwithaimee