Megan Nelson, owner of Prairie Soul Studio, established her business in 2015 to help people discover the joy of movement. Recently relocated to 314 Main, Suite 4 (same building as Nook/Emerald Grace), the studio offers a cozy, intimate atmosphere with access from Main Avenue or a convenient alley entrance.
Megan’s journey began at a Madison Community Center yoga class in high school and, later, classes in Sioux Falls with a friend. She fell in love with the practice and eventually pursued a 200-hour teacher training, which took place every other weekend over four months. “I had no intention of teaching or owning a business,” Megan shared. Starting with a grassroots beginners series in the park, her passion grew, leading to operating out of spaces on 6th & Main, University Mall, and now back Downtown—where her heart truly lies.
The new location’s exposed brick walls and cozy energy have drawn rave reviews. “I love the energy of Downtown Brookings and the accessibility to many of our members’ favorite stores, so attending class can become part of their day,” Megan said. Many members pair yoga with shopping or dining nearby. “You’ll now see lots more yoga mats wandering around Downtown.”
Prairie Soul Studio offers a range of classes, from gentle yoga to yoga for strength and barre, with early morning, daytime, and evening options. Megan is excited about potential collaborations with neighboring businesses, like yoga paired with floral arranging, wine tasting, or even a cozy yoga book club.
“A body in motion stays in motion,” Megan explains. “We are here to promote movement for life. Yoga and barre keep you active so you can enjoy your favorite things, whether it’s gardening, playing with grandkids, or counteracting our office lifestyle. Every BODY can do yoga—you just need to find the type that works best for you.”
Megan, also a mother of two and Admin and Guest Experience Manager at the SDSU Foundation, named Prairie Soul Studio as a nod to her South Dakota roots. “I wanted it to reflect the area we live in,” she said, recalling her first studio promotion photo taken in a prairie.
With eight instructors offering 20+ classes a week, Prairie Soul Studio provides small class sizes for a personal, welcoming experience. “Yoga is all about finding your comfort and finding yourself. It doesn’t matter what mat you use or what clothes you wear. Everything you need is provided—just bring yourself.”
To learn more, visit prairiesoulstudio.com or follow along on social media. Classes are booked through Walla, and a new student special makes exploring options that fit your schedule and preferences easy. “If you like what you’re doing, you’re more likely to keep doing it.”