Our Story

They act as a symbol and a guide, a way to introduce ourselves to the world, and set ourselves apart. When we name something, whether it’s a pet, a child, or a yoga studio, we should view the task as a responsibility, but also as an opportunity.

That’s why, when it was time to name our yoga studio, we searched long and hard for a name that reflected the studio’s focus, honored our philosophy, and celebrated our community. For these reasons, we’re proud of Longwave Yoga, in name and in spirit, and we’re excited to share that story with you.

A Studio Inspired by the Sea

Longwave Yoga is located in the heart of Wilmington, NC, a coastal city aligned closely with the elements. This is a place where people know the meaning of “salt life,” whether they’re surfers waking early to catch some waves at Wrightsville Beach, sun-worshippers camping out on the sand, or UNCW students riding their longboards to class.

The ocean is one of the many things that make Wilmington unique, and we knew we wanted our name to reflect this connection. Plus, with offerings such as SUP Yoga and a summer sunrise practice on the beach, it made sense that our name would extend past the four walls of our studio and into the world.

A Practice That Meets You Where You Are

Life, like the ocean, ebbs, and flows. Sometimes we’re riding a wave high as it crests, strong and untouchable. Other times we’re stuck in a shallow tidal pool, hoping a seagull will come along and pluck us out of our misery. The beautiful thing about yoga is that no matter where in life you are—high or low—yoga will meet you there.

Of course, yoga is more than just a mood. A regular practice is beneficial at every stage of life, whether you’re just beginning your journey or looking for new adventures during retirement. No matter your age, experience, past, or future, we’re all riding the long wave of life together, and yoga is one way to deepen and share that experience.

A Connection That Comes in Waves

In yoga we move with our breath, matching our rhythms to the inhalations and exhalations that rule our lives. These breaths come in waves, just like the ocean lapping at the shore. At Longwave Yoga, we believe that yoga is a state of meditation and relaxation, and the way to get there is not by holding crow for five minutes straight, but by the simple act of breathing and moving with that breath. Inhale, exhale, and suddenly: you’re there.

Speaking of our bodies, it’s worth noting that each of us is sixty percent water and that the ocean covers seventy percent of the earth. We owe so much to this life-giving force, not least of all the fact that it connects all of us. This brings us to the ultimate connection, the final piece that pulls it all together. Our community. You see, Longwave Yoga is not a huge studio. Our space is intimate, full of friendly faces you’ll start to recognize after just a few weeks, instructors who can offer personal attention, and the freedom to err on the side of playfulness.

The name Longwave Yoga captures this spirit of strength, love, community, and connection, and we’re so grateful to share it with you.

~by Lexi Hawks ERYT 500, Founder of Longwave Yoga