Jubilee!-dancer-turned-yoga-instructor, Cheryl Slader, is committed to making yoga available to everyone, regardless of their ability to pay. For the past five years, her downtown studio, Blue Sky Yoga located inside The Arts Factory, has offered multiple classes daily on a donation-basis.

"Sometimes the points in your life when you most need the positive benefits of yoga are the times you are least able to afford it," says Slader. "We always hope that those who can give more will do so - that's what allows us to continue doing this."

Classes include "Lunchtime Bliss!" from 12:15 to 1pm and "Happy Hour Yoga" from  5:30 to 6:30pm. Also offered are classes in prenatal yoga, power yoga, Jivamukti, which involves music, meditation and Sanskrit chanting, and even children's yoga.

"Some people feel guilty if they can't pay and don't come to our classes. I explain to my students that an empty room is the last thing I want. As long as I have students, there's purpose to what I'm doing," says Slader.

The studio is a vibrant space with an eclectic mix of colorful art covering the walls. Slader rents sections of wall space to artists as mini-galleries. This mutually beneficial arrangement helps cover hard costs while giving artists an affordable way to gain exposure for their work, including during First Friday, the one day each month when classes are not held and the studio is open as a gallery to the large crowds gathered at The Arts Factory.

In addition to supporting local artists, Slader strives to expand the peaceful teachings of yoga into the community through charitable initiatives. An ambassador for Lululemon Athletica, she organizes donation drives to collect toiletries, food and other supplies for the homeless. The Lululemon store at Fashion Show donates hundreds of its signature sturdy tote bags, and volunteers fill each bag with donated items. Slader is in the process of creating a nonprofit organization to continue and expand these kinds of charitable efforts.

For a full schedule and additional information, visit www.blueskyyogalv.com. Artists interested in renting gallery space in Blue Sky Yoga are encouraged to contact Cheryl (702) 592-1396.

Photo: Blue Sky Yoga inside The Arts Factory