Dedham Business Spotlight: Stil

Stil which is pronounced STEEL is located at the new Legacy Place Mall. It is also one of the few stores in that shopping plaza that is privately owned and not a chain store.

Betty Riaz co-founded Stil in 2009. It's a place where she could bring together all of her passions under one roof, and continue her mission of helping others reach their greatest potential from both the inside and the outside.

Her classes are have a light beat attitude and will take your practice to the next level all the while chilling and flowing.  All classes are set to music and end with a meditative guided relaxation. Open invitation to practice anytime!

For 6 years prior, Riaz owned and operated Stil Clothing, a group of fashion stores that radically changed the way women dressed in Boston.  Helping clients find happiness and confidence in themselves was always the most rewarding part of Betty’s job, and she found that through teaching yoga she could elevate this path of bringing joy to other people.

Riaz's fashion boutiques were honored with Boston Magazine’s “Best of Boston” award several times throughout their operation, and she was voted Best Dressed in Boston by The Boston Globe and Fashion Boston Magazine.

Stil features jewelry, clothing, funky shoes and other objects of art as well as an amazing yoga studio complete with vintage barn doors.

Patch talked with Betty Riaz to find about the benefits of Yoga.

Patch: Why is yoga such a hot industry right now?

Riaz: Yoga offers several of benefits beyond physical fitness. People want to get those extras from their fitness routines now including mental and emotional growth, community, and a sense of accomplishment and fulfillment. They increasingly want to take advantage of the mindful aspects of yoga particularly. The world is very complicated and yoga helps people to slow down and refocus. For that reason it particularly attracts people who want lifestyle changes and that's were a lot of folks are at these days.

Patch: What defines Stil Studio?

Riaz: Stil Studio aspires to bring you to a place you have never been before. Connect and learn on the mat. Use what you learn and apply it to your life - off the mat. Here you will find an oasis to slow down, take care of your body and enjoy those around you.

Patch: What is your vision?

Riaz: We believe in putting the well being of others first; that our business will support the community we serve and respect the planet we live on. We believe in living our lives in ways that uphold the values and philosophies we teach; that our example influences others. We believe in a deep connection between the mind and body, and the importance of providing services that enrich both. We believe in self expression and exploration. We encourage classes that are supportive, creative and fun. We are committed to high quality experiences and view every interaction as an opportunity to be a catalyst for positive change.

Patch: What benefits does yoga have short term and long term? 

Riaz: First off, yoga can transform your body completely. Students can use it to accomplish their goals from weight loss to strengthening and toning as well as helping to keep your body healthier internally. It helps to get people moving and increase natural flexibility. Through disciplined practice you start to dissolve stress, sleep better and eventually beginning to deepen the mind/body connection which helps you in every aspect of your life. Yoga offers students benefits equal to the effort and dedication they put in. From the simple satisfaction of burning some calories and getting sweaty to lasting transformations of body and mind.