Local yoga studio promotes health, relaxation
Story by Katie Ericson
Photo by Melanie Leech
Opened four years ago, Harmony Yoga and Wellness is located at the far end of Dogtown and is steadily growing.
The facility offers exercise classes ranging from meditative yoga to belly dancing to vinyasa. No registration is required and while the classes are normally $15, $5 with a Drake I.D.
Manager Roxianne Classen is a high school teacher who developed a passion for health during her 17 years of practicing yoga.
“It’s a great way to de-stress,” Classen said. “The breath work helps you, and it’s a really good way to get some quiet time for yourself.”
According to Roxianne, one of the most popular classes is Yoga Happy Hour on Fridays from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. The class is an introduction to yoga and is only an hour long.
“It’s a great way to check out the studio,” Roxianne said.
They have also started a new class called “Barre 85.” The class is a combination of yoga, Pilates and ballet.
As an added challenge, Harmony heats the room to 85 degrees. Hot Vinyasa is also taught in a heated space, which enhances the workout and helps burn more calories.
Harmony Yoga and Wellness also offers spa services provided by certified staff members. Anne Boal is a Drake graduate who works at both Harmony Yoga and the Drake Wellness Center.
Boal offers several different types of massages including deep tissue and Swedish massages. A 60-minute massage is $50 and Boal tailors each massage to the needs of her client.
From senior citizens to professors to athletes, Boal has worked with a wide clientele and believes that massage is important to your health.
“I encourage them (students) to add massage to the wellness routine to help them maintain their health and stay injury free in their activities.”
Grass Orchid Skin Wellness Center works with Harmony Yoga and Wellness and also offers facials, waxing, and back treatments.
Manager Sarah Horner joined the company recently and said, “It seemed like it (Harmony Yoga) would be a good fit.”
The company focuses on helping customers maintain good skin care at any cost.
Usually Horner consults with her clients, discusses their needs and works out a plan.
She tries to find a service at the salon or a product to purchase elsewhere that will fit into their budget.
One of their most popular specials is a four-person package for $25. Clients give each other facials and learn about skin and its needs in the process.