This Isn’t Just Yoga, It’s a Movement (and a Little Magic) By Crystal Kage

Photo by: The Yoga Lens

Hey, I’m Crystal! The founder of The Velvet Mat, your local movement muse, playlist junkie, and lover of all things magical and a little rebellious. I’m a black belt, certified yoga teacher, and event alchemist blending strong flows, sparkly rock'n themes, and soulful connection into every experience. You can be brand new to yoga or just here for the post-class coffee, I created this space for you.

Let me just say it: You don’t have to be flexible, spiritual, or dressed in head-to-toe Lululemon to belong here.

The Velvet Mat is not about perfect poses or fitting a mold. It was born from the desire to create something more... a place where people could move their bodies, connect with each other, experience new places to hang out, let loose and have fun while feeling part of something real.

A little rebellious. A little soulful. Always welcoming.

I’ve always believed that movement is medicine, but so is community. So is belonging. So is being able to show up exactly as you are, if you're a glitter-covered goddess, a barefoot beach yogi, or a head-to-toe in black kind of soul with zero desire to “find your inner light” (don’t worry, we still got you 💜).

The Velvet Mat is for you if...

• You’ve never done yoga but always wanted to try

• You’ve felt intimidated walking into traditional studios

• You're an experienced yogi and want to try something new

• You want to meet new people in a way that doesn’t feel forced

• You’re looking for a way to feel more like yourself again

• You just moved here and want a reason to explore Tampa Bay

• You’re craving something deeper, more playful and fun, more you

We host everything from donation-based rooftop flows to curated retreats, private events, and wild themed classes (yes, there’s a playlist). We partner with amazing local mobile businesses; florists, baristas, tequila reps, reiki goddesses, DJs, you name it to create experiences, not just classes.

Sometimes it's a 60-minute reset.Sometimes it’s a full-on Sunday Funday, complete with pool access, drinks, brunch deals, and new best friends by 2pm.

It doesn't matter if you’re showing up solo, with your work crew, or for a private birthday bash, you’re welcome here. We’ve got space for it all:🌟 Team-building day retreats🌟 Corporate wellness activations🌟 Girls' weekend energy🌟 And the everyday, come-as-you-are kind of class too.

This isn’t your average yoga scene... it’s a living, breathing, glitter-sweating, magic making Velvet Tribe. No pretenses. No pressure. Just permission to be yourself and move in a way that feels good.

Come for the movement. Stay for the magic. And maybe make a few badass friends along the way.

Join us or book your own private event, retreat, or day experience.

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