LAKEWOOD - Eight Limbs Wellness and Yoga Studio may have two separate locations, but they're connected.
The wellness center, 36 Chautauqua Ave., Lakewood, is a couple blocks from the yoga studio, 7 W. Summit St., Lakewood. Danielle DeVine, licensed massage therapist and yoga instructor, said she started the businesses in 2006 at the Lakewood YMCA after moving back to Chautauqua County from Phoenix.
''There wasn't any place to practice (yoga) at the time. I saw it as an opportunity to create a business and pass on what I've learned to the community,'' she said.
Article Photos
From left, Natalie Maggio, Elise Phillips, Carrie Harvey, Sandy Anderson, Jen Raines, Danielle DeVine and Chris Cotter practicing yoga at Eight Limbs Wellness and Yoga Studio. The wellness center focuses on therapeutic massage, located at 36 Chautauqua Ave., Lakewood, and the yoga studio, 7 W. Summit St., Lakewood, is where people can practice the ancient art.
Submitted photo
In 2009, she moved the businesses to their current locations, with hopes that one day both will be under the same roof. The yoga studio has recently expanded to have five instructors teaching six styles.
''We broaden to connect with more people,'' she said. ''Each instructor has their own background of yoga. They each portray their own personal journey through their teaching style.''
DeVine said there are yoga classes held every day of the week. People can visit www.eightlimbslakewood.com to see a schedule of each class being taught.
At the wellness center, there are three licensed massage therapists: Sandy Anderson, Natalie Maggio and Devine. All massages offered are therapeutic Swedish style, focusing on eliminating metabolic waste from the tissue spaces to assist with healing and detoxification.
The sessions are an eclectic mix of Swedish strokes along with deep tissue, range of motion and pressure points. Devine said each massage is different, based on the needs of the client, and the intuition and knowledge of the practitioner.
Massage appointments can be scheduled six days a week. The center is not open on Sunday. DeVine asked those interested to book at least one week in advance. People can schedule an appointment by calling 763-7665.
DeVine said she enjoys what she does and both businesses offer a worthwhile experience.
''I like helping people feel better,'' she said. ''It has been great. It is what I needed to be doing.''
DeVine said yoga is not just for young people, but for all age groups.
''There is the thought that yoga is only for young people looking to stay in shape. We're trying to break that barrier,'' she said. ''Yoga is for all sizes, shapes and ages. We have different techniques to suit all people.''
DeVine said yoga mats and props will be provided for new students if they don't have their own.