West End Yoga creates convenience in Seven Lakes

Jeremy Wellman takes yoga seriously.

An Ohio native, Wellman didn’t let the absence of a studio derail his workouts when he was overseas for work. If anything, the lack of alternatives only strengthened his devotion to – and interest in – the discipline.

“I practiced by myself with videos,” Wellman, who joined the Marine Corps at 18, said. “It got the bug in my head. I wanted to become a certified yoga instructor.”

The owner of West End Yoga Company (WEYC), Wellman opened the facility at the end of January. Not having a studio close to his home, in Seven Lakes, sparked his entry into the industry.

“I kind of always wanted to start my own business,” he said. “There was nothing like this out here.”

On Jan. 29, WEYC held an open house. Judging by the turnout, Wellman’s belief there was a need to be filled seems verified.

“I was really surprised by how many people came out,” he said. “I was talking a lot. I’d say there were at least 150 people.”

While he’s been in North Carolina since his days in the Marines, the venture has enabled Wellman to become even more familiar with community members.

“I’m meeting people I never would’ve met before,” he said.

Along with Wellman, WEYC has 11 instructors guiding clients. Having a large staff and a mix of classes may prove helpful during what can be a busy season.

“People will come out at this time of year for certain reasons,” Wellman said. “There is quite a bit of variety on the schedule.”

The location of the business is a plus for clients – and staff members as well.

“I’m literally four minutes from West End,” Wellman said.

WEYC caters to customers at every level. Classes for those just starting in the discipline, which developed in India more than 5,000 years ago, are featured prominently.  

“I keep the classes small on purpose,” Wellman, who started with yoga while working for Harley-Davidson, said.

Attitude can have a big say in determining whether or not a business succeeds. Wellman’s outlook makes WEYC’s prospects promising.

“My whole life has been related to service,” Wellman said. “I like helping people and doing things for them.”

You’ll find West End Yoga Company at 149 Woodlawn St., Unit E, in West End. It’s open Monday through Sunday from 6 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.

For more information, go to: https://westendyogacompany.com.

Feature photo: Jeremy Wellman, owner of West End Yoga Company. Photo provided.

~Written by Sandhills Sentinel Reporter Dave Lukow.