Clothe your soul 

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• PHOTO BY STEVE E. MILLER
• DRESS TO DE-STRESS : Nicole Wendel recently opened The Yoga Boutique, which offers comfortable clothes and yoga accoutrements.

# Are your sweatpants too constricting for sunrise salutations? Does your shirt ride up while performing downward dog? Can your shorts handle all the perspiration that comes along with the 105-degree heat of Bikram yoga?

For everyone tired of experiencing wardrobe malfunctions while practicing the ancient techniques of yoga, there's finally a store in San Luis Obispo dedicated to providing proper clothing and accessories for anyone stretching toward inner peace.

"When you're practicing yoga, the last thing you want is an uncomfortable outfit," said Nicole Wendel, who recently opened The Yoga Boutique on 570 Higuera St. in San Luis Obispo's Creamery. "These clothes allow people to be more focused on their practice."

Wendel, who also owns the Bikram Yoga studio next door, said she decided to open the boutique after customers complained about not having many yoga clothing options in town.

"I thought we'd give it a whirl, and it's been received even better that we thought it would," she said. "People need stretching body wear that will retain their shape. These fabrics do that--they're meant to be moved in."

In addition to quality and comfortable clothing, The Yoga Boutique offers instructional books, DVDs, yoga blocks, and straps to help yoga enthusiasts reach their physical and spiritual goals. Some of the store's top-selling items include mat bags, skidless towels, and an eco-friendly line of products.

"Yoga is a balance between physical and mental well-being," Wendel said. "It's an amazing opportunity to increase strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular health. Outside of the physical benefits, [participants] can relax, unwind, and let go of stress."

While providing the appropriate clothing, props, and accessories, Wendel is making it easier for many locals to achieve to a healthy body, mind, and spirit.

The Yoga Boutique is open Tuesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information, call 545-5951 or visit www.bikramyogaslo.com.

Staff Writer Kai Beech compiled this week's Strokes and Plugs. Send your business news to [email protected].