Today we’d like to introduce you to Sarah Spinelli.
Hi Sarah, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
Two years ago, my partner and I relocated from southwest Florida, in Naples, to Morganton, North Carolina. We were drawn by the natural beauty and the kindness of the people here. Shortly after settling into our new home in the foothills of the South Mountains, I began teaching yoga and meditation at Breathe Yoga & Wellness. I was struck by the location of the studio in the heart of downtown Morganton, surrounded by art studios, local coffee shops and restaurants, and in a historic building full of warm exposed brick and vaulted ceilings. The studio space itself is magical and a delight to practice and teach in.
With a full time job in corporate tech, I was anticipating that teaching yoga would be a joyful side hobby for me, but the members and clients at the studio very quickly won me over. I was surprised to find out, after a year of teaching at the studio, that the previous owner was considering selling. This catalyzed my journey and I put in an offer – fast forward to August 1st of this year, and I am the new owner of Breathe Yoga & Wellness. What started for Breathe Yoga in 2014, I’m honored to carry forward as we grow and welcome new members into the space.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The biggest obstacles so far have centered around how different life is for small businesses! Given my corporate background, I have been continuously surprised at the many requirements and costs for just having a business open. I was anticipating things like insurance, paying for the booking platform, rent, paying teachers, internet, utilities, and the like – but I was not expecting all the other unseen costs, like music licensing, merchandise and retail for the boutique, among other things. All in all, this is truly a labor of love and an honor to steward our studio for this community.
As you know, we’re big fans of Breathe Yoga & Wellness. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
At our boutique yoga & wellness studio, we have a broad variety of offerings – from functional movement to vinyasa-based classes, meditation, community yoga classes, gentle yoga, yin and restorative yoga, and more. With 10 instructors, we strive to offer excellence, love, and care to our members. Each instructor here has a profound background with deep expertise and education in their respective fields. In 2026, we will be partnering to offer bodywork services in addition to our yoga and wellness classes. In Morganton, North Carolina, there are no other dedicated yoga studios but that does not mean we take it for granted – we are well known for our broad range of class offerings and our members definitely have their favorite instructors! In our studio, clients and members agree that this is a profoundly warm and welcoming environment – any person who shows up will be greeted with a clean space that is furnished with the right level of comforts.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
Yoga and wellness are for everyone – we keep the space cozy and welcoming, but you won’t find murtis or statues of Hindu deities, nor will you find other religious items. My intent is to ensure that this studio is a space for our community – of all beliefs, backgrounds, gender identities, ages, and beyond. All of our instructors guide classes to ensure that our clients and students feel confident and safe in their practice – we adhere to the belief that each person’s practice starts and ends on their mat. From Vanda Scaravelli, I have been deeply impacted by her teachings that “we don’t sacrifice the body for the glory of the pose.” Each student is met where they are in their practice – we offer accommodations and ensure that each practitioner has the space to experience what they need on their mat in this studio. We are a team of trauma informed and inclusive instructors who care deeply about every person who comes through this space.
Pricing:
- Intro: 6 classes for $36
- Annual (up front): $1000
- Monthly: $115
- University students: $85
- Annual (paid monthly): $100
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.breatheyogawellness.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/breatheyogawellness/
