Jen Rizza and partner Elaine Gallas are inviting the public to a ribbon cutting ceremony celebrating their new Prana Therapeutic Yoga Studio on Wednesday, November 5, 11:30 am.

Gallas, a somatic psychotherapist, registered yoga teacher (RYT), and director of Prana Yoga Studio, along with Rizza, an RYT, reiki master, teacher, and Newtown Wellness Collective Founder, will be joined by First Selectman Jeff Capeci, clients, supporters, and members of Newtown Department of Economic and Community Development at 75 Glen Road, Suite 203 for the festivities.

In establishing this new wellness facility, the pair invite guests and practitioners to explore therapeutic yoga. According to their website, newtownwellnesscollective.com/yoga, “We approach therapeutic yoga from two unique perspectives. Taking a therapeutic approach to yoga refocuses the practice to cultivating deeper alignment with yourself, regulating your nervous system, and increasing your vital life force energy (prana).”

Newtown Wellness Collective has been operating since 2022 and Rizza said she is excited to expand the studio and offerings with this new venture.

“We use practices to open greater self-awareness, build resilience and awaken deeper meaning through lived experiences,” Gallas said. “We offer individual [one on one] sessions, group classes and workshop-style programs.”

“Our new yoga studio is designed to be nourishing for your prana, your vital life force energy,” Rizza added. “Elaine and I are seeking to support integrated wellness, beyond the physical yoga postures, with space to explore somatics, nervous system regulation, energetic balancing, meditation, and breath work.”

Newtown’s Director of Economic and Community Development John Voket believes Prana Yoga Studio will complement the community’s existing network of yoga and wellness providers.

“The opportunity to provide therapeutic yoga and related services in Sandy Hook only adds to the diversity of new and established businesses in the area,” Voket said. “Coming out to meet Jen Rizza and Elaine Gallas, and learn how their talents and services can enhance your health and wellness, is just another good reason to visit and explore everything our professional neighbors have to offer.”

Rooted in accessibility and awareness, Prana Yoga Studio’s approach welcomes all levels of yogis, offering a meaningful experience for everyone who joins them “on the mat.” For those who would like to learn more about therapeutic yoga and explore Prana Yoga Studio’s class schedule and upcoming workshops, go to newtownwellnesscollective.com.