“It was a perfect yoga class,” mentioned a student after finishing a class with Heather Yost at her OG Yogi studio which opened this summer at 400 W. Rich St. in Suite 210.
“Yes, she did everything just right,” said another smiling student.
With the sun setting and scents of essentials oils in the air, it was indeed a wonderful place to stretch mind and body.
“Using breath and movement is a natural way to tune the body,” says Yost. “As a teacher, [of children at the YMCA and yoga electives in Franklinton schools], getting that focus on breathing and sensation is so much help.”
Since 2011 the collection of former manufacturing spaces (some dating to the early 20th century) at 400 West Rich have become a hub of art and movement activities. Low-rent studios with high-ceilings and lots of urban chic make 400 West Rich very attractive.
“These studio spaces are wonderful, especially the windows; we experience the most incredible sunsets!” says Yost.
Yost has a passion for teaching and a special place in her heart for those dealing with depression and trauma.
“The music of people who survive a really harsh childhood speaks to me, so I listen to lots of the original gangster music. The original yoga was all about breath control, so that is why I chose the name OG Yogi.”
Yost offers yoga classes on Tuesday and Thursday evenings as well as private yoga sessions. She offers Pilates by Danielle Sieh and other wellness activities soon.
The OG Yogi also wants to bring yoga to folks who haven’t gotten into it before. She has held workshops for men only, and participated in the Healthy Living Festival over the summer.
“I know men who do lots of sitting,” she says. “Their hip flexors get so tight; their backs are hunched over computers. I have lots of stretches to help them relax.
The OG Yogi Columbus holds classes on the second floor of 400 West Rich Street. Arrive 10-15 minutes prior to class and enter through the orange 400 West Rich door facing the parking/tent areas to go up the stairs to Suite 210.
For more information, visit theogyogicolumbus.com.