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A local yoga instructor is in a competition she hopes will earn her national recognition and a chance to inspire others.

Sonya Rice of Elements Studio in downtown Greenville has been nominated for the title of “The Next Yoga Warrior” in a nationwide competition akin to “American Idol” for the nation’s yogis.

The winner will get a two-page spread in the Yoga Journal magazine as well as money to enhance his or her yoga studio.

“It would be such an honor to share my yoga journey in hopes to inspire others that age is just a number and that yoga is for everyone,” said Rice.

“It would be great to get this recognition. And the funds would be most welcome to enhance our yoga studio and get the supplies we need to keep yoga going in our community.”

Voting opened on Monday, March 9, and continues online through March 18 at IAMYOGAWARRIOR.com.

“Look for my name and profile at the site to vote. You can vote once a day through March 18,” Rice said.

The winner is slated to be announced on April 29, with the voting continuing in rounds.

“Please share this great news with your friends. Do this for our community and do it for this Greenville girl who has been bringing yoga to the community since 1985.”