There’s a quiet but powerful movement growing in the heart of downtown, a place where people stretch, breathe, and find balance. That place is Ascend Wellness, Minot’s dedicated yoga studio, and it’s becoming a welcoming hub for civilians and military families alike.
For newcomers to Minot Air Force Base, adapting to the region’s long winters, tight-knit community, and rural pace of life can be a challenge. Yoga offers more than just physical benefits, it provides grounding, connection, and a chance to hit pause amidst all the transition.
At Ascend Wellness, you won’t just find yoga poses. You’ll find community. With a thoughtfully designed studio space, a wide variety of class styles, and a team of instructors who genuinely care, the environment is ideal for both seasoned yogis and first-time students.
Yoga instructor Jessica DuPuis, who has been teaching in Minot for nearly two years, describes the studio as “a calm, family-owned environment that’s welcoming, clean, and aesthetically pleasing.” More than a workout, classes at Ascend offer space to reconnect with yourself and with others.
For military families, the studio also offers a military discount for active duty and spouses, making wellness more accessible for all those coming to Minot AFB.
What makes yoga such a valuable tool for people stationed at or relocating to Minot AFB?
“The winters are long, the days get dark early, and we all tend to spend more time indoors, often sitting, laying, or maybe drinking too much,” Jessica shared. “Yoga becomes a way to move your body functionally and feel better throughout your day.”
Beyond movement, yoga supports mental health, which is particularly important in isolated or high-stress environments like northern military bases. Whether it’s the mindfulness of a gentle flow or the intensity of a power yoga session, classes are built to meet people where they are, physically and emotionally.
“You might show up feeling scattered or stressed,” Jessica says, “but the mat becomes a place to gather those pieces, body, mind, and heart—until they start moving in the same rhythm again.”
All levels and backgrounds are welcomed, one of yoga’s greatest strengths is its adaptability. At Ascend, classes are accessible for beginners, seasoned athletes, seniors, and everyone in between.
Jessica emphasized that yoga isn’t about performance, it’s about presence. “I always tell students that just showing up and breathing is enough. Every day on the mat looks different, and that’s okay.”
Classes at Ascend range from power yoga to gentle flows hot yoga, Barre and power sculpt classes. Students are encouraged to listen to their bodies, modify as needed, and move in a way that supports long-term strength and mobility.
And yes, yoga can be a serious workout. “People might be surprised by how physically challenging it can be,” says Jessica. “But they’re also often surprised by how good they feel afterward.”
Ascend Wellness isn’t just a place to practice yoga, it’s become a community hub for creative wellness events that help people connect and give back. From glow-in-the-dark yoga to wine-down evenings, teacher appreciation events, and puppy yoga fundraisers for local shelters, the studio offers fun, inclusive gatherings that bring people together in meaningful ways.
In the summer, Ascend also partners with Citizen’s Alley to offer free community yoga outdoors, allowing even more people to experience the benefits of yoga without financial or physical barriers.
For those new to Minot, especially military spouses trying to settle in, joining a yoga class can be a gentle yet powerful way to meet people, combat isolation, and feel like part of the community. “Even one small, positive interaction in class can make your whole day,” Jessica notes.
In a town where the wind howls and winter can feel never-ending, yoga offers warmth, connection, and growth. Whether you’re stationed here for a few years or planting deeper roots, finding your flow might be just what you need to feel at home.
If you are interested in attending a class visit Ascend Wellness or follow them on Facebook and Instagram to stay updated on class schedules, events, and upcoming workshops. Military discounts are available.
