In Pike Place Market's Butterworth Building, a new wellness studio, Protea Yoga, dedicated to an inclusive environment and fostering connections, has been unveiled. Named after the king protea —South Africa's national flower — the studio is inspired by the Ubuntu philosophy, which emphasize the interconnectedness of people with the societal and physical worlds.

"At Protea Yoga and Karoo Cafe, we've created a space where everyone — including members of the LGBTQ+ community— can feel truly seen, celebrated, and at home," owner Olivia Vermaak told the SGN. "Inspired by the South African philosophy of Ubuntu, which means 'I am because we are,' we believe in connection, belonging, and growing together."

Protea instructors have a diverse range of experience, like that of Michaela Campbell, who brings a community-focused approach to her calming classes while encouraging mindfulness and connection. Vermaak said the instructors are dedicated to creating welcoming, authentic, and safe experiences for all visitors.

This January, the location is introducing an array of new classes, like family yoga. Leah Adams will lead cancer-survivor focused sessions on the first Sunday of each month.

Vermaak, a South African native, is also the owner of Karoo Café, located below the studio. After completing their wellness session, customers can drop downstairs for food and beverages, like the Khaya Botanical cocktail, which combines Ritual gin and aperitif with Mediterranean tonic, and an orange wheel for a South African homestead feel.

"Karoo Café has quickly become a Queer-adjacent lounge and a cherished safe haven for Nonbinary and LGBTQ+ people in Seattle. With a majority Queer staff and a strong commitment to inclusivity, it's a space where everyone is welcome to celebrate and connect," Mlindi Ngema, Protea and Karoo host, told the SGN.

Ngema said Sundays at the café have naturally flourished into vibrant celebrations of Queer culture with ballroom-inspired brunches and Lady Gaga singalongs.

"Karoo Café actively supports mental health and body positivity in the LGBTQ+ community," Ngema said. "The newly opened Protea Yoga studio upstairs provides an inclusive space for those of all shapes, sizes, and abilities to focus on well-being, manage stress, and embrace self-care."

"For us, this is more than just a yoga studio — it's a sanctuary," Vermaak said. Whether you're flowing through a joyful Vinyasa class, unwinding with a restorative sound bath, or joining one of our community workshops, our goal is to offer a place where you can express yourself, heal, and connect."

Visit Protea Yoga at 1921 First Ave. or online at https://protea.yoga. Karoo Café is online at https://karoo.cafe.