Writer / Jennifer Magley
Comfort, relaxation and welcoming – three words that capture Peace Through Yoga Studio located on Zionsville’s Main Street.
“We practice Real Life Yoga at all three of our studio locations. We are a neighborhood studio and understand that people have heard about the benefits of yoga. They may even be practicing at home to a video but are uncomfortable walking into a studio,” says owner Mindi Epstein.
“We have created a non-judgmental space for those who might not otherwise have been comfortable walking into a studio. Our mission statement is: We meet you where you are, physically, spiritually and geographically. If you are ready to practice yoga, we are here for you.”
Epstein, the former Senior Vice President of Communications at the Jewish Community Center (JCC) in Indianapolis, began yoga years ago as a way to move her body in a different direction other than forward as she cycled nearly 10,000 miles a year outdoors.
“I started my yoga practice for the exercise and cross training but have stayed with yoga because of the tranquility and understanding that through my practice, I am finding my deepest, truest nature. I have long since given up my bike, but my yoga practice has stuck and become my calling.”
This calling means being an integral part of the fabric of each community they serve. They offer community classes and support local charitable events, fundraisers and community events.
A big part of Peace Through Yoga being your neighborhood studio is in the space itself. “Our locations are intentionally in charming buildings nestled in neighborhoods. We offer a service to each of our communities – we strive to be as important to the residents as the local bank, salon and merchant,” says Epstein.
“These spaces feel like refuges,” she says describing each studio. “They are without decor or items that might make people feel out of place,” says Epstein. Peace Through Yoga offers many different types of yoga, from Vinyasa, Gentle/Restorative and Ashtanga to Kids Yoga and even Yoga For Athletes.
The benefits of a regular yoga practice are often measured in intrinsic values in addition to the many physical advantages. The experience on the mat helps people develop a new relationship with themselves, and in so doing, with all other living beings. Therefore, all ages, shapes and sizes benefit from practicing yoga, making both the individual and the community stronger simultaneously.
The effects and impact of yoga on the surrounding Zionsville community is profound. “We see it in our students all of the time. They stand upright with poise and ease. They make healthier food and lifestyle choices, and we see a gentleness in their faces that comes from reduced stress and a sense of purpose in life,” says Epstiein.
The journey of single location studio owner to three yoga studios in four years has been nothing short of impressive. The success of Peace Through Yoga has been nothing short of miraculous in its scope and reach in the community so quickly.
“Running a business venture – and yes, a yoga studio is a business venture – has demonstrated to me time and again that we are never in it alone,” says Epstein. “Every time I have found myself at an impasse, the right person has shown up. Every question along the way has been answered. Every challenge has been met. I know I am not walking this path alone.”
With each step along the path, Epstein remains committed to give. “We always contribute as much as we can,” she says with a smile. “It is important that we are a good neighbor.”
