What’s in a name?
The Studio, once known as Bikram Yoga Upper Valley, first opened its doors in December 2010. In those early days, students flocked to our hot room to “sweat it out” through the Original Hot Yoga (OHY) “26 and 2” series. The energy was electric, the community close-knit, and the ritual of practice transformative.
But as the years passed, and new information emerged, it called for some reflection. In 2016, we knew it was time to evolve, to step away not only from the series’ founder but from the rigid, dogmatic framework that limited both teachers and students. We realized that true wellness requires more than heat and sweat; it thrives on curiosity, growth, and balance.
Guided by sisters Maeghan and Julia Finnigan, The Studio began to reimagine what mindful movement could look like. Inferno Hot Pilates (IHP), yoga offerings expanded, and Kinstretch joined the lineup, each chosen to build strength, enhance mobility, spark neuroplasticity, and support the body in new, intelligent ways. Together, these practices formed a dynamic ecosystem designed to nurture healthy, adaptable bodies and open, resilient minds.
As The Studio evolved, so did its home. We moved into an expanded space, welcomed new faces to our teaching team, and created a community that reflects our shared values: inclusivity, authenticity, respect, community, and perseverance.
More than a yoga studio, The Studio has become a living, breathing space for connection, a place where movement meets mindfulness, and where every drop of sweat tells a story of growth. So in 2022, we decided to make it official. The little hot yoga studio in WRJ embraced the name it had already become in spirit: The Studio, a place for transformation, from the inside out.
Our History
- 2011: Opens as Bikram Yoga Upper Valley in small studio space
- 2012: Moves to current expanded location
- 2016: Julia joins Maeghan at the helm, adopted moniker BYUV, and added Inferno Hot Pilates
- 2020: Pandemic paves the way for virtual offerings (live stream and on-demand!)
- 2021: The Studio is launched and continues to evolve