Small Business Spotlight: Woman starts faith-based yoga studio in Carlisle

Cumberland County has no shortage of residents with unique talents and independent spirits.

From artists to mechanics, office workers to outdoor professionals, these entrepreneurs showcase the best of what businesses in the county have to offer.

Every week, The Sentinel’s Small Business Spotlight will feature these people and share their stories.

Discover your local connection through this series that focuses on small business owners in your own backyard and highlights the services they provide for their community.

Vanessa Cantrell

Business Name: Embody Studio LLC

Years in Business: Opened in January 2024

Location: 29 Ritner Highway, Carlisle; located within Platinum Fitness at 1225 Ritner Highway, Carlisle

Contact: embodystudio.org

Q: Why did you want to start this kind of business?

A: Embody was created with the intention of providing somatic movement classes and a safe space for the community to move in a way that feels authentic, immersive and engaging. Combining movement, breathwork and self compassion brings us into a place of presence to notice, respond and understand what is going on in our mind, body and spirit.

Intentional movement and breath has been life changing—learning how to become embodied has been a healing and empowering experience for me that I hope to share with others. I have my 200-hour yoga teacher certification and am certified in trauma sensitive yoga.

Q: How did you get your start?

A: There is something really special about an immersive class. When my husband and I first moved to the area in July of 2023, I searched everywhere for an immersive experience studio and could not find anything. Through prayer and lots of support, I found the space in Platinum Fitness in November 2023. After lots of painting and back-end setup, Embody was created and opened two months later.

Q: What does your business sell or provide?

A: Embody offers a variety of classes that are meant to provide mind-body connection in a different way. Students are encouraged to notice how they feel before and after class. Right now, classes range from a yoga flow class (Flow), somatic cardio (Soma), restorative yoga (Rest), mat pilates (Synergy) and a faith-based worship flow class (Soul).

All classes are mildly heated (between 75-80 degrees), which allows for greater flexibility, minimizes muscle strain, detoxing and builds tremendous stamina and endurance.

Nontoxic, high-quality yoga mats, blocks and knee pads are provided at every class. Students are also welcome to bring their own mat, a towel and water.

At the end of every class, students are given a cold lavender towel and offered a warm or cold beverage.

Q: What is the biggest challenge you are facing right now?

A: We are starting small and new to the area. I am 24 years old, so getting a bank loan to start the business was almost impossible, but I managed to find cost-effective ways to start the studio. Right now I am trying to get the word out through social media, testimonials, free community classes and flyers. It has been a blessing to already have so much support from the members who have joined during our first month open, and I know that our community will grow with the continued support from others in the area and local businesses.

Q: What is your favorite thing to do or place in Cumberland County?

A: I love downtown Carlisle, which is why I am so thankful the studio is within five minutes from the Square. My husband and I love to walk downtown and try a new restaurant, coffee shop or retail shop. Denim Coffee has been a popular spot for me to work. The Wednesday Farmers Market is also my favorite way to get outside, connect with other business owners and meet new friends.