Yoga offers numerous advantages, such as:
- Physical well-being: It enhances strength, balance, and flexibility, and can alleviate issues like back pain, arthritis, headaches, and carpal tunnel syndrome. Additionally, yoga supports heart health by reducing blood pressure, cholesterol, and glucose levels.
- Mental well-being: Yoga aids in managing stress, anxiety, and depression, and contributes to better sleep.
- Mindfulness: Practicing yoga fosters mindfulness, allowing individuals to concentrate on the present without judgment.
- Community: Yoga promotes connections with a supportive community.
- Self-care: It encourages improved self-care practices. • Additional benefits: Yoga can assist with weight loss, smoking cessation, and symptom management of chronic illnesses, while also enhancing respiration, energy, and vitality.
When searching for a yoga studio in New York, consider the following factors:
- Type of yoga: Beginners might prefer Hatha, slow flow, or restorative classes, while those with more experience can explore Ashtanga or power yoga.
- Class levels: Check if the studio offers classes suitable for all experience levels.
- Class observation: Many studios permit potential students to observe a class prior to enrollment.
If you’re new to the city (shoutout to the class of 2018!), or perhaps just starting your yoga journey, it’s time to seek out a studio. The advantages of practicing yoga regularly are well-known across different styles, and although I’ve enjoyed yoga on my own, attending classes offers countless benefits.
When I relocated to the city, I had a hard time finding a yoga studio that felt like home. I sampled many studios and liked quite a few, but it took me about six months to find the right place where I could attend classes daily. This search led me to explore various neighborhoods and try different yoga styles. New York is certainly a hub for yoga enthusiasts, so I encourage you to embark on your own quest to discover a studio you love; just be prepared for it to be challenging and potentially costly. To help, I’ve compiled a summary of the studios I visited during my own exploration for a New York yoga home.
This isn’t a comprehensive ranking—there are countless studios I haven’t tried—and it’s not a list of pros and cons, either. That wouldn’t capture the essence of yoga, which is about finding what resonates with you. However, I hope my experiences can inspire your own journey.
Yoga to the People (St. Marks): Honestly, Yoga to the People didn’t really suit me. The classes were often overcrowded, and I found the atmosphere to be somewhat impersonal. However, it might be perfect for you, especially given its main advantage: classes operate on a donation basis and are offered 5–8 times a day. It’s conveniently located near Washington Square Park, and you’re sure to work up a sweat due to the tight quarters.
Jivamukti Yoga (841 Broadway): This style of yoga, founded by David Life and Shannon Gannon, has a strong emphasis on spirituality, enlightenment, and activism. Unfortunately, it’s on the pricier side, with a ten-class pass costing around $108 and drop-in classes at about $15. However, the spiritual depth of these sessions is truly unique.
Ashtanga Yoga New York (430 Broome St): Ashtanga yoga, which I have practiced for years, is offered here, led by Eddie Stern and based on the teachings of Sri K Pattabhi Jois. This center is highly recommended for dedicated practitioners eager to deepen their Ashtanga practice, though it is a significant investment, with a 12-class pass priced at $210.
Sonic Yoga (754 9th Ave): Located in Hell’s Kitchen, I found Sonic Yoga while visiting in the summer before moving here for school. It’s a more affordable option, with drop-in classes at $20, and they host community classes with suggested donations. The sessions thoughtfully blend spiritual and physical practices, making it a great spot if you’re in midtown.
Laughing Lotus (636 6th Ave): Laughing Lotus boasts a lively and colorful atmosphere, which they embrace wholeheartedly. Drop-in classes typically cost $20, and the studio’s vibrant decor is certainly eye-catching. While I found it a bit distracting, the studio remains true to traditional yoga with a creative and modern twist. Their approach incorporates music, dance, and art, focusing on self-discovery and creativity.
Yoga Vida (99 University Place and 666 Broadway): Yoga Vida is my sanctuary. I was attracted to its affordable pricing and the constant availability of classes. With two locations just ten minutes from Washington Square Park, the atmosphere is welcoming, and each class is lively, making me feel instantly at home.
Ultimately, finding the right studio for you is what truly matters. It’s not about identifying the “best” studio, but rather discovering what fits your needs. So get out there! Try out different yoga studios, enjoy the experiences, and embrace your practice!
