10 Creative Ways to Support Your Local Yoga Studio

‘Tis the season to champion the businesses you love. And honestly, what establishment is more deserving of your appreciation than your local yoga studio?

The business of owning a yoga studio is not a particularly lucrative one. There’s teacher pay, rent, utilities, props, front desk staff, cleaning supplies, and so much more that your studio is reponsible for. Considering how much you receive from your time on the mat, supporting your yoga studio offers a natural opportunity for seva, often translated to service. This, too, is yoga.

Whether you’re partaking in small business Saturday or simply embracing the spirit of giving, which is available to you year round, you can take certain actions that bolster you yoga studio so that its better able to bolster you.

10 Ways to Support Your Local Yoga Studio

Get creative! It really is the thought that counts.

1. Sign Up for a Membership

Committing to more than one class at a time is good for everyone. Not only does investing in a membership or class package save you some money in the long run, it also ensures you’re likely to get back to the studio while allowing the studio a little extra financial breathing room.

2. Explore Volunteer Opportunities

You don’t have to be a yoga teacher to volunteer your talents. Check with the studio owner or manager to see if and how you can help out, whether through volunteering your social media know-how, accounting savvy, or whatever other talents you possess. 

3. Try a Workshop

Yoga studios tend to put a lot of thought into supplementary offerings such as workshops, retreats, and more—so why not check them out? And as with a membership or class pack, the extra income helps keep the lights on.

4. Gift a Class (or a Class Package)

Know someone who’s interested in yoga but can’t seem to make it to the mat? Ask your studio about purchasing gift cards or certificates so you can help spread the yoga high around.

5. Ask About Donations

Although many yoga studios are unlikely to solicit donations, that doesn’t mean they won’t accept them. Cleaning supplies, props, and, of course, money can all be helpful additions.

6. Take an Online Class

If you’re out of town or simply too busy to make it to an in-person class, opting for a virtual class can be a great option to support your practice and your local studio.

7. Look After Your Space

There’s no need to sweep up the entire studio or clean the mirrors (though your efforts would likely be welcome). But taking a moment to clean up your space post-class by returning props, throwing away any trash, and maybe even wiping down the area around your mat is respectful and incredibly helpful as it’s work someone else won’t have to do.

8. Shop the Boutique

Those branded tanks and water bottles aren’t just for show. Invest in an accessory or two and suddenly you’re a walking advertisement for your studio. And every purchase—whether a gift for yourself or someone else—helps the studio’s bottom line. 

9. Leave a Review

Small business owners know that even a single glowing review goes a long way toward compelling other new students to give them a try. Take a moment to wax poetic about what makes your studio special—beloved teachers, class types, environment, and more.

10. Tell your Friends

When it comes to yoga, sharing is caring. Rather than gatekeeping your favorite studio, spread the word to friends and family! Take this sentiment to the next level by bringing loved ones along to your next class.