Local Business Focus: Clear Skies Yoga and Fitness

When I walked into Clear Skies Yoga and Fitness for the first time, I was welcomed by warm smiles, a calming atmosphere and positive thoughts about what this yoga session would be like. I am no stranger to fitness classes; however, with some recent injuries and apprehension about overdoing, I was tentative. Yet, that fear quickly washed away as owner Ashley Salgat started our chair yoga class – with an attitude of personal growth instead of competition, plus clear instruction with reminders and modifications for students, Salgat melts the stigmas attached to the art of yoga. So roll out your mat or pull up a chair, take a grounding breath and move your body with instructors who want to change the way people in Dayton experience wellness.

Salgat, who also works as a dental hygienist, turned to yoga after COVID. During those tough times, she was faced with patients’ daily negativity about life, society and their hatred for dental appointments, which started affecting her emotionally.

“I was like, you know, the next job I’m going to have is a job people want to go to,” Salgat said.

She completed a YogaFit 200-hour Level One Foundations training, started teaching classes and got the bug for more. After a few years of offering zoom classes and renting studio time, she was able to open her own studio Mother’s Day of 2024.

Clear Skies Yoga currently has three instructors – Ashley, Tonya and Megan – who all teach different styles of yoga suited for varying ages and fitness levels. Some of their more popular classes include the kids’ yoga series, beginners’ yoga, senior yoga and fitness, and level up power yoga. All classes are currently drop in but you can pre-register on the website. Bonus: all equipment is provided so just bring a water bottle. And if you are not convinced yoga is right for you, the first class is always free so Salgat said just come try it.

“If you can’t do everything, that’s the point of starting to work out – you’re not supposed to be able to go three miles the first time you run, you have to work your way up to it,” Salgat explained. “You do not have to be flexible to do yoga; you are doing yoga to become more flexible.”

Salgat said yoga is about stretching and strengthening – it’s not just about being able to get into a difficult pose. This is about working on yourself and feeling good in the body you have.

“My goal is to get people moving, having a healthier lifestyle, building a like-minded community of health, awareness, mobility and movement,” Salgat stated.

Clear Skies does not stop at traditional classes. They also offer tough but supportive six-week bootcamp challenges, butt-kicking local hikes, five-week running groups and other activities like kids and adult painting nights. For those looking to celebrate milestones a little differently, the studio is even available for private events and small parties.

Like many small business owners, Salgat has faced her share of challenges. Balancing motherhood, being a hygienist, running a business and staying present as a teacher is not always easy, but her students and practice are what keep her grounded.

“It’s my outlet, my sanity, my mental health,” Salgat said. “I personally believe yoga is physical therapy and therapy without the degrees. I’ve learned a lot and it has also taught me to be a better mom, acknowledging others of who they are, how they are and not manipulating or controlling how to control emotions.”

She also noted how important yoga can be for children because, “they’re allowed to run and play but there are also times I mandate quiet and stillness so they can learn to control their mind and control their bodies.”

Looking ahead, Ashley and her instructors will be revamping their studio schedule Sept 1, changing and adding a few new classes like Yoga Nidra, a 90-minute guided meditation by candlelight. Salgat also wants to try a beer yoga class for adults, where sipping your beverage is integrated into the movements.

The main thing Salgat wants people to know is that anybody can do yoga – you do not have to be flexible, fit, thin or wear yoga pants. You just need to be willing to take the chance to try something new. And if you have questions or concerns, you can always connect with Salgat prior to joining a session.

In a time where burnout is worn like a badge of honor and a sedentary lifestyle is the new normal, Clear Skies Yoga and Fitness is a place where you can pause, breathe and reconnect with your body, your mind and maybe even a few new friends.

For information about classes, pricing, packages or to contact Ashley Salgat, visit https://www.momoyoga.com/clearskiesyoga and follow Clear Skies Yoga and Fitness on Facebook and Instagram.