Mind Body Knox dream coming true: Collins
A long-held dream finally is coming true for Paige Keisler Collins.
For many years, the licensed therapist and yoga instructor could only imagine her idea for a collaborative wellness center, but she and her business partner, licensed clinical social worker Lynn Smith, have made that dream a reality with the opening of Mind Body Knox in Hardin Valley.
The new “all under one roof” collaborative, located at 2202 Award Winning Way Suite 101, offers an array of integrated mental and physical health options — which will be on full display during a ribbon cutting and open house from 4 to 6;30 p.m., Friday, Nov. 4.
Those attending will be eligible for a free yoga or meditation class pass, along with a free yin yoga class offered at 6 p.m. during the event. A 6:30 p.m. reception for wellness professionals will follow.
“There will be fun, food and lots of giveaways, including a 20-class pack valued at $280 and an 8-week mindfulness-based stress reduction course valued at $500,” Collins said.
The event caps a full week of grand-opening activities, which also includes several free classes along with a book discussion and Q&A starting at 6:30 p.m., Thursday, Nov. 3, with noted author Timber Hawkeye, who has written “The Opposite of Namaste” and “Buddist Boot Camp.”
The events are designed to showcase what Collins has finally been able to bring together following a dozen years as a therapist, realizing very early on the need for integrated mental and physical wellness.
“You end up going so many different places for what you need to help you heal, and I’m thrilled we are able to provide one place for everything,” Collins said. “I founded Mind Body Knox a few years ago, but it took some time to find a place to offer everything we hoped to.
“We found this building last year and have been able to finish it out to offer everything under one roof, rather than being spread out here and there,” she added.
Nine different therapists are available, along with classes in a variety of yoga styles, including chair yoga.
“Mind Body Knox aims to destigmatize mental health and demystify coping and relaxation skills,” Collins said. “We provide a structured time and space for mental and physical wellness through a variety of evidence-based practices.
Collins lives in the Powell area of Knox County, but several providers at Mind Body Knox hail from Farragut, including instructors Amanda Wolfe, Audra Wallis, Susan Crompton and Alex Iman, who help teach 15 yoga classes.
Crompton alone teaches intenSati, combining positive affirmations with movement.
“Our teachers are passionate about utilizing yoga as a tool for mental wellness,” Collins said. “Our studio is inclusive, safe and supportive place for anyone who might be struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, life stressors or just want to move their bodies and relax their minds.”
Many classes and therapy sessions are offered both in-person and on-line, and all ages are encouraged to participate.
“We really pride ourselves on the fact that all classes are accessible and affordable,” Collins added. “We want everyone to feel they have a spot here.”
She said meditation classes will be offered in November, and soon joining the business will be a massage therapist, a dietician who specializes in eating disorders and a holistic chef “who will be offering food and mood workshops with us.”
For more information on this week’s events, visit Mind Body Knox’s Facebook page. For more information on the variety of wellness options, visit www.mindbodyknox.com.
