Name of business: I Am Yoga Wellness Studio

Type of business: Yoga studio

Location: 2031 Geer Rd., Turlock

Hours of operation: Reception is open 8:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 8:30 a.m. to 3 pm. Friday, and 8:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. Saturday. Classes begin at 6:30 a.m. most days, with the last class of the day usually starting at 7:30 p.m.

Contact info: 667-8100, www.iamyogastudio.com, info@iamyogastudio.com

History of business: A longtime love for yoga led Tracy Parreira to pursue certification to teach the exercise form in 2006.

While studying, Parreira met Anna Eshoo, and the two became fast friends with a shared vision.

 “We had a dream to open a studio here in Turlock,” Parreira said.

On Aug. 18, 2008, that dream became a reality, and Parreira and Eshoo became I Am Yoga Wellness Studio co-owners.

Business specialty: I Am Yoga offers a wide range of yoga classes, from fat-burning athletic sessions to more introspective, meditation-centric sessions.

Yoga, an ancient Indian discipline, uses poses – asanas – to stretch specific parts of the body. Breathing also plays a large role in yoga, keeping practitioners focused and resulting in a greater link between mind and body.

 “We’re not just focusing on the surface level of the body,” Parreira said. “These poses are directly connected to the mind and soul as well.”

But I Am Yoga is about more than just yoga. The studio also features Pilates, massage therapists, facials, chiropractors, a sauna, showers, and a small café serving specially blended herbal teas. In the coming months, owners hope to expand the café’s offerings to include healthy soups and salads.

All of I Am Yoga’s services are available on either a drop-in basis, via a monthly membership, or through multi-visit packages.