Community Highlights: Meet Natasha Stewart Amy Duncan of Urban Zen Yoga Studio

Today we’d like to introduce you to Natasha Stewart Amy Duncan.

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
We’re Tasha and Amy, two yoga teachers brought together by a shared passion for movement, mindfulness, and meaningful community. We first met while teaching at a local yoga studio. It didn’t take long to realize we both carried the same dream in our hearts: to create a space where people could truly feel at home in their bodies, supported by a strong community and surrounded by authentic, inspired teaching.

That dream slowly took shape through late-night brainstorming sessions, shared visions, and a deep desire to build something more than just a yoga studio, it was about creating a sanctuary. A space that uplifts, heals, and connects. A space not just for students, but for fellow teachers, creatives, and seekers to share their gifts and grow together.

Our studio is the manifestation of that dream, a welcoming, inclusive home where everyone is invited to show up exactly as they are. Whether you’re stepping onto the mat for the first time or have years of practice behind you, we’re here to hold space for your journey.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Like many dreams, bringing ours to life wasn’t easy. We chose to self-fund our studio, which meant every decision came with careful planning, sacrifice, and faith. We poured our time, energy, and resources into this vision while often working behind the scenes and late into the night.

Then came the construction delays, unexpected setbacks that tested our patience and resolve. Opening day was pushed back (more than once), budgets were stretched, and there were moments when it felt like we were building more with willpower than with tools.

But through every challenge, we kept coming back to why we were doing this. We reminded each other that the heart of this studio was never about the walls or the timeline; it was about the people, the practice, and the community we were creating it for.

Now, standing in this space we’ve built from the ground up, every bump in the road feels worth it. This studio isn’t just a business, t’s our love letter to the yoga community that shaped us. A home for movement, growth, connection, and healing.

Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
At Urban Zen Yoga we believe yoga is for everyone. Whether you’re craving the warmth and energy of a heated flow or the grounding stillness of a non-heated class, our studio offers a diverse range of practices to support your unique journey, body, mind, and spirit.

What makes us special isn’t just our schedule or our space – it’s our intention. We’ve created a studio where all are welcome, no matter your age, experience, or flexibility. Every class is guided by knowledgeable, heart-centered teachers who are here to hold space, not just lead movement.

We offer:

Heated Classes: Dynamic, invigorating flows in a gently heated room to help you detox, build strength, and deepen your breath.

Non-Heated Classes: Grounding, restorative, or alignment-based practices in a comfortable, room-temperature environment perfect for those seeking a slower pace or a cooler space.

Community Centered Approach: We’re not just a studio; we’re a hub for connection. We host community events, workshops, and opportunities for teachers and students to grow side by side.

Inclusive & Welcoming Vibe: Whether it’s your first class or your hundredth, you’ll feel at home here. No pressure, no pretenses just yoga in its purest, most accessible form.

Our mission is simple: to offer a space where people can come exactly as they are and leave feeling more connected to themselves and their community.

Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
We honestly couldn’t have done it alone. Our mentor, Jess, was a huge part of this journey. She offered us guidance, encouragement, and wisdom when we needed it most. Her influence is deeply woven into this studio’s foundation. Our designer Monica took our dream of an at-home, cozy-yet-elevated yoga space and absolutely nailed it. She turned neon walls into a sanctuary. Lastly, our contractor Brad brought it all to life through hard work, patience with us, and craftsmanship. His team helped us build more than just a studio; they helped us build a foundation for something lasting.

We’re also incredibly grateful to our spouses, families and friends, who showed up for us in every possible way. From demo through construction, they offered their helping hands and cheered us on through every setback.

And most importantly our clients, many of whom believed in us before we even had floors or mirrors installed; they are the heart of this studio. Their trust and enthusiasm fueled us more than they could ever know.

We are standing on a foundation built by many hands, and we’ll never take that for granted.

Pricing:

• New Client Special $15
• August Drop in Rate $12
• Unlimited Monthly Membership $139
• 4/8 Class Monthly Membership $80 for 4 and $115 for 8
• 5/10/20 Class Pack Options $100/ $200/ $375

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.urbanzenyogastudio.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/urbanzenyogastudio/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Urban-Zen-Yoga-Studio/61565427677400/#
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/urban-zen-yoga-studio-peoria

Image Credits
Photo Credit: Andrea Jeffries