A place to cultivate one’s inner zen might just be what 2020 ordered--and The Collective certainly delivers. For new yogis to seasoned experts alike, this space has something for everyone. 

There’s something special about the Sunshine City--and Brittany George, co-owner of St. Pete’s newest wellness studio and gathering space, noticed. “The energy of the city was palpable,” George said. “There always seemed to be something going on and it felt like an inspiring place to be full time.” 

After moving here nine years ago, George has certainly been busy, transforming from curious yoga student to resourceful wellness instructor. Add a certification in Ayurveda (traditional Indian medicine), and it’s clear she has an overarching goal in mind: connecting the mind, body, and spirit. And that’s the aim of George’s latest endeavor. By partnering with Dani Mae, owner of Breath Guidance, Rachel Miller, owner of Move and Shift, and Erin Yakunich, owner of Soul Meets Body, the group aims to provide a different approach to wellness.

The Collective is multi-functional in nature--an area for growth, empowerment, and skill-building. But how does it all operate? Firstly, by separating itself from the label of “yoga studio.” 

“Trying to get in front of people can be a challenge if you're a new teacher, lack finances, and are still growing in experience,” George explains. The Collective bridges that gap, providing a space for wellness instructors and students alike to intersect. A Student membership gives access to weekly classes and workshops, such as breathwork (using breath to calm the spirit), stretching exercises, and more. A Teacher membership opens up the studio for those wanting to host their own courses. For other gatherings, there’s The Collective Renter. This is ideal for private functions, photoshoots, multimedia-necessary events, and even massage and acupuncture therapy. 

The Collective isn’t a one-size-fits-all structure--and that’s clear the moment you step inside. Wide windows let in natural light. A reserved color palette coats the walls and ceiling in white paint. The occasional potted plant sits tucked in a corner. The result is a harmonious space--a clean slate. 

“The ambiance and environment is adaptable based on who is renting the space, the offering presented, and the service being utilized,” George says. Hosting a community workshop? Make use of the ample studio space and 51 mats at full capacity (which can be downsized to 26 to respect COVID distancing). Get creative with professional photography lighting and cameras, perfect for filming tutorials, live streams, or whatever project you have in mind. A therapy-catered space comes equipped with a massage bed and a small consultation area, fit with a couch and wooden furnishings.

Wanting to pop in for a class or two? Drop-in classes are $15, though there’s the option to pre-register for upcoming sessions starting at $150 for 12 classes. Teaching rates start at $25 an hour, with packages beginning at $240 for 12 hours. Renters have the option to select the studio or therapy room at $55 an hour or $25 an hour respectively.

Though The Collective opened a few weeks ago at 327 11th Ave North (Suite 201), the excitement isn’t slowing down. Upcoming events include candlelit poetry, restorative yoga workshops, and more soul-soothing sessions.

The Collective is located in the historic North Ward School, an adaptive reuse project which renovated a former schoolhouse into a mixed-use retail and office center. Other tenants in the building include Grand Hacienda and 4th & Vine, among others.

Check out further details at thecollectivestpete.com and follow their Facebook page for the latest updates.