WHEN JENNA Jarvis opened the doors to Kula Flow Yoga in August at Copley Mill on Stalybridge’s Demesne Drive, it is fair to say it was a step into the unknown.
But what started as a leap of faith has become a well-grounded success.
Originally, the business was envisioned as a space for monthly events and occasional classes designed to bring the local community together, an intention reflected in the meaning behind its name.
“Kula is the Sanskrit word for community,” Jenna explained.
“I wanted something that was community-based. That’s why it’s called Kula Flow Yoga.”
Now Kula Flow Yoga offers several classes a week alongside its popular events calendar, all supported by a small but passionate team.
“I’ve got an amazing team that works at the studio with me,” Jenna added.
“Nicole, who’s a personal trainer, and Clair, who’s a holistic wellbeing therapist. We’ve all got something different that we bring to the studio and that’s what makes it special.”
Jenna’s journey into yoga is driven by necessity as much as curiosity.
The full-time high school art teacher lives with endometriosis and outside work, she discovered that yoga played a huge role in relieving her symptoms and improving her quality of life.
And from the outset, she was intentional about creating a studio that felt welcoming and inclusive. One noticeable feature is that the studio does not have mirrored walls.
That sense of comfort extends to everyone who walks through the door, regardless of age, body type or flexibility.
“It just became part of my life, something I basically couldn’t go without,” Jenna told The Correspondent.
“There are no mirrors for a reason. It can be really intimidating walking into a space where you’re constantly looking at yourself. I wanted people to feel comfortable.
“People think yoga is about flexibility, but it’s not. I have everything from a 14-year-old who comes with her mum every week, to people in their 70s.
“I really hope it’s a nice space for everyone.”
Kula Flow Yoga’s offerings reflect that inclusivity. With warm classes held at 23 degrees, hot classes at 30 degrees, mobility sessions and more, there is something for everyone.
Jenna also hosts monthly events to bring her own creativity to the mat, like candle-making and yoga, festive wreath-making and an upcoming dry floral arrangements class for Galentine’s Day.
To get involved with Kula Flow Yoga, all the information can be found on Facebook at www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61578729860396 and Instagram at www.instagram.com/kulaflowyoga/.
You can contact them by emailing Kulaflowyoga@gmail.com.