Open is the wellness answer I had been looking for
This past February, escaping the winter chill, I headed to Los Angeles to slow down and take a step back after a few personal chaotic months. Amid moments of reading, meditating, and exploring a highlight was finally visiting Open in Venice Beach—a wellness studio I’d been eager to experience in person after months of using their app. Open isn’t your typical wellness space; it offers a true pathway to well-being that doesn’t feel rushed or trendy. It’s carefully curated with sessions for every mental state, from breathing and sound meditations to classes tailored to help with rest and calm.
When we arrived, I was struck by the serene, inviting energy of the studio. Everything about Open’s physical space feels intentional: warm wood floors, soft lighting, and an open skylight in the main practice room that brings in natural light.
The whole place feels both intimate and spacious, grounded by a large gong that’s just as calming to look at as it is to hear. Our Flow session was small, with about ten people, and led by an instructor who guided us through gentle, mindful movements. Each part of the class built on the last, intensifying slowly while still keeping us centered, with reminders to breathe in sync with our bodies.
The effect was like nothing else. By the end, I felt grounded and light, like I was carrying that calmness with me—not just through the day but back home, too. We even considered booking another session the next day but decided to hold on to that post-yoga glow a bit longer. The experience was so impactful that back in NYC, I kept using the Open app daily, though I haven’t found an in-person experience quite like that one yet.
One of the reasons Open feels so authentic is its co-founder, Manoj Dias. Originally from Sri Lanka, Manoj brings an incredible depth to Open’s approach, making the space feel welcoming and grounded. He’s known for his thoughtful meditation practices that emphasize true connection to yourself and your surroundings, offering an alternative to the more rushed, trend-focused takes on wellness. It was clear that Open is shaped by his philosophy, making it feel like more than just a yoga or meditation space—it’s a place where you can genuinely recharge, reconnect, and take that calm with you into daily life.
If you’re ever in Venice Beach, Open is worth a visit. It’s not just about a great class; it’s about finding a mindful space where beauty and purpose are thoughtfully woven together. For me, it was a gentle reminder of the benefits of slowing down, taking a breath, and letting that balance linger long after you leave.