Golden Yoga, a studio located in Islamorada, is providing a sanctuary for residents seeking relaxation and community connection. Owned by longtime locals Carrlee and Chris Denault, the studio offers a variety of yoga classes and unique healing sessions.

A Space for Healing

The studio, situated in a loft-like space at 200 Morada Way, Unit 1B, aims to be more than just a place for physical exercise. Carrlee Denault, who previously worked as a therapist in the Upper Keys, envisioned the space as a “creative community space, where people can share their unique gifts.” The Denaults, both certified yoga instructors, have cultivated an environment that they describe as soulful and heart-centered.

“There’s a feeling that it touches your heart,” Carrlee Denault said about the studio’s ambiance. “At the end of yoga classes, we play harmonium and chant. That, for me, is really special.”

Golden Yoga's schedule includes classes like Mindful Yoga, a gentle hatha flow, and Vinyasa Yoga, a more dynamic option. Modifications are offered to accommodate practitioners of all levels and abilities, including those with limited mobility. The Denaults, who are expecting their second child, are looking to expand the studio’s offerings and their family.

Sound Healing and Community Workshops

One of the studio’s signature offerings is sound-bowl healing sessions, led by Chris Denault. These sessions utilize crystal sound-healing bowls to create harmonic tones, promoting a sense of calm and relaxation. Attendees have reported feeling deeply relaxed after just a short session, with one participant noting, “I thought we were just here for 15 minutes!”

Beyond yoga and sound healing, Golden Yoga has hosted various workshops, including vision-board creation, sewing, and breathwork classes. Carrlee Denault encourages locals with expertise in areas such as healing arts, crafts, or meditation to propose ideas for future workshops, fostering a collaborative community spirit.

Local Roots and Community Support

The Denaults have deep ties to the Florida Keys. Carrlee is a descendant of the Pinder family, who were early settlers in the Keys in the late 1800s, while Chris grew up in the area. This local connection informs their commitment to serving the community.

Regulars praise the Denaults’ approach. Dina Sip, a Golden Yoga attendee, described them as “warm, kind, deeply knowledgeable, and incredibly empathetic,” adding that “there is no ego — just two loving human beings dedicated to helping others.” Stephanie Cox, executive director of the Morada Way Arts District, where Golden Yoga is located, called the studio a “great addition to the district.” Cox also highlighted the unique experience of attending a yoga class followed by a sound-bowl healing session at the Hale Gallery, surrounded by art.

Golden Yoga also offers private, in-home yoga sessions. For those interested in exploring Chris Denault’s sound-healing work further, sessions are available on Insight Timer under the handle @chrisdenault. The couple also maintains a YouTube channel at @carrleeandchris. Information on class schedules and session times can be found at carrleeandchris.com. The studio is also available for rent by other yoga instructors.

The Denaults’ vision for Golden Yoga extends to creating a welcoming space where individuals can connect with themselves and the community through various healing and creative practices. Their commitment to fostering a supportive and enriching environment is evident in their personalized approach and the positive feedback from their clientele.

For more information on the studio’s offerings, interested individuals can visit Keys Weekly for a detailed report on the studio and its founders.