I've received so many calls and texts over the last two days asking if I'm ok and if the fires impact me.

Thank you for checking in on me. 

I was born and raised in Los Angeles and am truly heartbroken by the devastation that our city is experiencing.

I've lived through fires, floods, mudslides, riots, and earthquakes. 

Nothing compares to the Pacific Palisades and Eaton fires (in Pasadena/Altadena).

I live eight miles from Pacific Palisades and am about four miles from the evacuation zone.

I have power and I'm safe.

I've been a pilates instructor for the past 19 years, and for 8 of those years, I worked for a private members-only club in Santa Monica.

The members of my classes were more than clients to me. They were family.

When I think of all of them who live in the Palisades, I am brought to tears by the losses they are experiencing.

So many of them have lost their homes.

I have readers in this email community who have been evacuated or lost everything.

I'm devastated for them and the trauma they've been through the past two days.

What strikes me is they've also lost their community. 

Schools, churches, the rec center, and grocery stores have all burned.

In a world where so many feel lonely and isolated, I worry about the impact on people's mental, emotional, and physical health.

Helicopters can now fly over the fire scene, and the pictures are apocalyptic.

We're not out of the woods yet.  The winds are due to pick up again.

Here are some simple tools to help you get through this extraordinary time:

• The humidity is extremely low - drink enough water
• While you may not have an appetite, try to eat a small meal
• If you feel overwhelmed, try closing your eyes, put your hand on your heart, and take three slow, deep breaths.

If I can support you in any way, please reply to this email.  I want you to know you're not alone in this.