Embody Studio is a serene getaway near downtown Covington where residents can go to get a little peace of mind.

After moving to the area with her family four years ago, Andrea Lea opened her mind-body fitness studio last year. She saw the need for a "yoga home" in the Covington area. Lea has been doing yoga for 17 years while moving all over, even living in South Africa for a period of time.

Embody Studio offers small group fitness classes. Clients can participate in yoga and meditation, and even use Kettlebells, a unique fitness activity made to increase flexibility and stamina.

"I have a short attention span so Kettlebells is great because we do them in 30 second sets," said Lea.

Embody Studio is a close-knit studio that carries a family atmosphere. The studio often forms teams for fitness events. They recently ran in the Peachtree and the Dirty Girl Mud Run.

On Monday nights, women come and participate in a type of class where there is sharing circle. Lea said this is a great time to talk with women of all age groups and share what is going on in their lives. The studio also is beginning something called Godcakes. Lea and the other volunteers for Godcakes will bring cupcakes to shelters and treatment centers.

Embody Studio offers Boot Camp Yoga, Strength & Toning, basic yoga, Ballet Booty and Release the Week Gentle Yoga. They are open in the mornings and evenings for classes.

For the month of August, Lea is offering a $7 yoga special as well as a $70 charge for unlimited classes. Different class packages are also available. A complete list of Embody Studio's schedule and prices is listed on their website embodyheart.wordpress.com.

Lea prefers to remind clients that Embody Studio doesn't take itself too seriously. Her studio is a place to laugh and have a good time.
"People shouldn't feel intimidated to try yoga. It is not just for the thin and flexible. It's for everybody," said Lea.