Stretch, Breathe, Belong: My Experience at Level Yoga

When we moved to Vero Beach in January, I hadn’t practiced yoga in months. I knew I would need to find a yoga studio at some point, but I hadn’t done it even as we were sliding into spring. I met Amanda when we interviewed her for The Vero Beach Podcast, and I knew I liked her immediately. She has the gentle, patient, and fun air of a really good teacher. She made a statement that has stuck with me, “We like to say yoga isn’t a work-out, it’s a work-in.”

First Impressions of Level Yoga

I had only ever been to very small yoga studios before, and I was curious to see how different it felt at a larger studio. (For some perspective, the studio can accommodate 27 students.) I felt a little nervous as I crossed the parking lot, not knowing what I should do first, or if I would be able to keep up with the others. I was pleasantly surprised to be greeted by name when I walked through the door and guided on what to do before class started.

A Welcoming Studio Environment

The lobby, the boutique, and the studio itself are welcoming, bright, and clean, but not sterile or cold. I especially love how the studio feels- lots of natural light, a cork floor, and a big barn door that once closed, signals “time to practice.” Before the door closed, though, I was struck by how everyone does their own thing: some people were just resting on their mats; some were gently stretching and preparing for class, and some were softly talking to their neighbor. 

Teachers Who Encourage, Not Critique

I’ve taken classes with Amanda Steadman and Amanda Peruzzi (also known as AP) and I think they’re both wonderful teachers. I love when teachers/trainers/instructors are present and helpful, but don’t make you feel scrutinized…especially when you’re out of practice and can’t always hold a pose for as long as the rest of the class. Each one of them has a unique style of teaching, but they are both affirming and encouraging. They do a great job of offering a wide range of poses based on your ability and even how you’re feeling that day. They make sure you know it’s not about competition or perfectionism, but being present in the moment and caring for yourself. 

Personalized Touches That Make a Difference

At one of my classes, I mentioned to AP that I hadn’t ever practiced shoulder stands or type of inversion, and by the next week, she incorporated poses to strengthen the shoulders and prepare for shoulder stands. I was so touched she remembered I said that and thought of it in her preparations. It’s things like this that make boutique fitness studios stand out from big corporate places.

An Invitation to Stretch, Breathe, and Belong

If you’re near Vero Beach and looking for a yoga home, Level Yoga is it—welcoming space, thoughtful teachers, and a practice that meets you where you are. What more could you ask for?

Before I wrap up, if you’d like to hear more about Amanda’s story and what makes Level Yoga such a special place, check out the Vero Spotlight feature on Level Yoga. It’s part of our effort to highlight the amazing people and places that make Vero Beach feel like home.

Go stretch something!