Meet Nick & Lela Beem, Grateful Yoga
Meet Nick & Lela Beem, Grateful Yoga
Meet Nick & Lela Beem, co-owners of Grateful Yoga, an inclusive center focused on deep yogic study and self-transformation. Located at 1108 Davis Street in Downtown Evanston, their studio offers classes that are both experientially rich and educational. You'll find ancient yogi practices and traditions, as well as modern insights. With both in-person and virtual classes and a wide variety of classes ranging from prenatal care to pain management to family yoga, there's something for everyone!
Read the full interview here.
KB: Can you share some of the history of your business?
LB: Grateful Yoga started off as Nick and Lela Beem back in 2005. Lela & Nick had both recently completed their 200 hour teacher training and were offering yoga classes all over the north shore. One of their venues was the Heartwood Center, which used to be located across the street from Bennison’s Bakery. Heartwood was the place that really nurtured Grateful Yoga enough to move into its own space in 2010 at 1108 Davis.
For the past 15 years, we have hosted many types of classes, individual sessions and yoga therapy workshops. Our emphasis is on using yoga postures and philosophy to create a welcoming place for people in all stages of life to find healing and balance.
KB: What can folks expect if they come to Grateful Yoga?
LB: We are an intimate, non-intimidating studio where people can wear baggy clothes and don’t have to feel flexible or fit to join. We offer a range of weekly drop-in classes, both online and in the studio, to suit a variety of interests. Some of our regular types of classes include: Hatha Yoga & Somatics, Yoga & Meditation, Yoga & Strength Training for Women, Early Morning Flow, Prenatal Yoga, Gentle Yoga, Baby & Me, Yoga for Bone Health, and more!
KB: How do you set yourself apart from other studios?
LB: We have a lot of respect for our local colleagues who run yoga studios in Evanston. It’s not an easy business. Our teachers are very highly trained- most of them have advanced degrees in physical therapy or additional training in trauma therapy or counseling. Many of our teachers make a career out of teaching yoga, which is not an easy thing to do.
We pride ourselves on being an accessible, non-denominational studio where people can come to relieve pain, stress and anxiety, as well as meet other like-minded individuals in their community.
KB: How does the Downtown organization support your business?
LB: Downtown Evanston has been extremely supportive of Grateful Yoga’s programming over the years. They always share our Facebook events and include us in any other opportunities that might be appropriate.
KB: Are there any specials or services you'd like to share?
LB: We have a 3 class introductory offer for new students for $35. Our class packages (5 classes for $85, 12 classes for $185) are shareable and never expire. We offer sliding scale/student rates of $60 for 5 classes.
We have a thriving prenatal yoga program with classes being offered 3 times a week, as well as extensive support for new families and postpartum moms looking for community.
KB: What is your favorite thing about owning a business in Evanston?
LB: We love that Evanston attracts people who are naturally curious and inquisitive! Must be because it’s a college town, but our students are always interested in learning more about their bodies and it’s a privilege to share with them.
