How Cleo Vo-Dai Is Evolving The Wellness Scene In Miami

If you’re familiar with the wellness scene in Miami, chances are you have been in the intimate studio of Modo Yoga in the Sunset Harbor neighborhood. When Modo Yoga opened its doors in 2017, it was a passion project inspired by a desire to bring infrared yoga to Miami, and over the years, it blossomed into a haven of peace and connection. As a part of the evolution process of Modo Yoga, it recently transformed into a new phase of its practice, IMA Yoga .

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Reflecting the studio’s journey and commitment to creating something distinctive, IMA Yoga encapsulates themes of nurturing, presence, and connection, embodying the studio’s ethos and future vision. At the helm of the metamorphosis of Modo and IMA Yoga is Cleo Vo-Dai. As a wellness entrepreneur and mother, Vo-Dai has poured her heart and soul into both practices, ultimately creating a sanctuary in Miami for those who want to feel a sense of community and connection. Ahead, we sit down with Vo-Dai to understand the transition into IMA Yoga and discover how she has remained at the forefront of the wellness community of Miami.

HAUTE LIVING: Can you talk about the evolution of Modo to IMA Yoga?

CLEO VO-DAI: I opened Modo Yoga in 2017. At the time, I was working in PR and branding, and it was a project that I had because I wanted to bring infrared yoga to Miami. It started as a simple passion project and became a significant part of my life as Modo Yoga became a large community of amazing people in Miami. During Covid, it became so important to many people to have a sanctuary of peace to return to. Miami became busier and busier, and so did the studio. Modo Yoga was my yoga community from Montreal; it felt like a natural connection. After a few years, as we grew to have an amazing network of the best teachers that I have ever encountered, we developed most of our own curriculum and signature classes, and we wanted to grow even more. Then, it felt like a natural progression to leave the Modo Yoga franchise and operate under our own name and brand as a result of our own evolution.

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HL: To you, what does IMA mean, and why the change?

CVD: When I decided to change the name of the studio, I worked with my dear friend Farryn Weiner from Farrynheight, who is just a magician of branding. The name IMA had so many significations in different languages, and it felt particularly fitting as it encapsulated our growth as a studio and my personal journey. In Hebrew and Arabic, IMA means “mother,” reflecting the nurturing and supportive energy I want to offer the community. In Japanese, IMA translates to “to be present,” which aligns with the mindfulness and awareness we cultivate in our practice. In Portuguese, IMA means “magnet,” symbolizing the energy that draws people together — a key element of the community we’ve built.

On a personal note, the timing of the name change felt especially meaningful. My daughter Colette was born the same week the studio opened in June 2017, and IMA speaks to both my role as a mother and the sense of deep care and connection I feel toward this community. Leaving the Modo Yoga franchise and becoming IMA Yoga gives us the freedom to grow our wings and create something truly unique that reflects our own evolution.

HL: What can we expect from the new IMA experience? 

CVD: IMA Yoga is an incredible community of people supported by an all-star team of the best yoga teachers I have ever encountered. Whether you’re into Hot Power Yoga, Yin with Sound Healing, Creative Movement, or Hot Pilates, you can be sure that your class will be top-notch. But what really sets us apart is the feeling you get when you walk into our studio: a warm, welcoming environment that feels like home. You’ll likely meet some amazing people and make lifelong friends while sipping on Bengal Spice tea after class. It’s about more than just the yoga — it’s about connection, community, and support. Ima Yoga is a magical place you will surely miss when you leave Miami.

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HL: What’s on the horizon for both you and IMA Yoga?

CVD: We’re beyond excited to announce our first Teacher Training in January! — this is a big step for us, and we can’t wait to share our knowledge and experience with the next generation of yoga teachers. Additionally, we’re working on expanding with the opening of a second studio — so keep an eye out for that announcement soon!

HL: How do you feel the Miami wellness scene has shifted over the last several years?

CVD: The Miami wellness scene has really evolved. Wellness is now a major focus for so many people here, and yoga has become something that is accessible to everyone. It’s no longer a niche activity for a select few; it’s an essential part of people’s lives.

Miami has transitioned from being just a party destination to a true capital of wellness. We have so many beautiful options for health, fitness, and self-care, and people here are more committed than ever to prioritizing their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. It’s an exciting time to be part of this community.

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HL: In addition to IMA, what are your favorites in Miami…

Spas?

CVD: I absolutely love The Standard and Faena for their amazing spa experiences. I’m also a big fan of the Korean spa in Edgewater — it’s a bit off the beaten path, but it’s such a gem. For facials, I always go to Sana Skin Studio and Gee Beauty, both of which provide incredible treatments.

Restaurants?

CVD: My absolute favorite new restaurant is Sunnies in Little River. It has such a great vibe and delicious food. I’m also looking forward to the opening of Ghee Indian Kitchen. For casual hangouts, Flora Plant Cafe in MiMo is a go-to, and Under the Mango Tree is an all-time favorite. For cocktails, I can never resist BeyBey — they make the best drinks!

Anything else in the wellness realm?

CVD: Wellness is such a broad topic, and I’m always looking for ways to level up my health. For IVs and health upgrades, Lifestyle Medicine with Dr. Ivan and Veronica is amazing — they’re so knowledgeable and really tailor everything to your needs. I also love acupuncture with Oded, which is a must for me. And, of course, the steam room and cold plunge at The Standard is a game-changer. But no matter how busy life gets, you’ll always find me at the beach with friends — that’s where I recharge the most.

This evolution from Modo Yoga to IMA Yoga feels like a natural progression. It’s about honoring where we’ve been while embracing where we’re going. We’ve built something truly special here, and I can’t wait to continue this journey with the community we’ve created. It’s only just the beginning!