Best Yoga Studios In Los Angeles
Chatarungas, asanas, vinyasa, hatha, sun salutations, Namaste — just a bit of vocabulary to inspire spirituality, relaxation and overall wellness. Today, yoga practice is more and more commonplace, taking priority in many people's lives. The health benefits of yoga are vast and tremendously positive — many practitioners experience calming of the mind, lower blood pressure, improved flexibility and a balance of body, mind and spirit. On the beach, in 108 degree heat or with upbeat top hit music, here are the five best yoga studios in Los Angeles.
Beach Yoga With Brad
Santa Monica Beach
Lifeguard Station #29
310-826-6958
www.bradkeimach.com
Beach Yoga with Brad Keimach is a one-of-a-kind yoga experience. With the gorgeous background of the Pacific Ocean, you can't get a more beautiful studio in Los Angeles than a view of the Santa Monica mountains or the occasional dolphin all while you are in Warrior One. Conclude a hectic day with traditional vinyasa flow with a considerable emphasis on stretch, breath and balance on the sand. Sunset beach yoga is offered Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday weekly. Times vary, so be sure to visit the Facebook page for schedules. Saturday and Sunday classes are offered all year long from 10:30 a.m. - 12 noon. Classes are $15 per person and students are asked to bring their own towel or mat, and a few extra layers to wear while the sun is setting.
Forward Fold
17071 Ventura Blvd., Suite 104
Encino, CA 91316
(818) 817-7750
www.forwardfold.com
Forward Fold offers a soothing tranquil environment and yoga community. Fifteen different classes are offered, which give every level participant the opportunity to practice. From the basics and beginning classes to advanced asana and challenging practices, Forward Fold inspires students to reach their full potential and become vibrant, calm and resourceful on and off the mat. Energized and motivated by owner Matt Bedrosian, the Forward Fold community comes together to breathe, move and reflect. The studio is pristine, students enjoy the "urban refuge," and it overlooks a serene courtyard patio. Single classes are $18, $16 if you reserve a space online, and other membership packages are available. Forward Fold suggests wearing layered comfortable form fitting clothing, bringing your own mat and turning off your phone.
Hot8Yoga
8383 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 75
Beverly Hills, CA 90211
(310) 986-6420
www.hot8yoga.com
Hot8Yoga practices hot yoga in a heated studio. This type of yoga exercise has become very popular in L.A. Hot8 teaches several different classes including yoga power, yoga sculpt, yoga barre and static asanas. How hot is hot? The studio keeps temps between 100-109 degrees, which falls in line with their philosophy of yoga. Believed to enhance overall health and muscle performance, hot yoga classes work in 26 static postures, and emphasize proper alignment, strength and flexibility, and balance and concentration. Additional health benefits include effective fat burning, increased metabolism, detoxification through stimulated lymphatic system, improved spinal integrity and nervous system function, musculoskeletal and deeper/safer stretching. Classes run from 60 to 90 minutes, except for the 30 minute meditation class. Pre and postnatal classes are available. New students can take advantage of the introductory package which allows unlimited use for one month for $45.
Exhale Venice
245 Main St.
Venice, CA 90291
(310) 450-7676
www.exhalespa.com
Exhale Venice has a zen vibe with a full schedule featuring yoga classes for beginners and for the advanced. Exhale is a great studio to start a yoga practice – try exhale flow. This class practices the traditional vinyasa methodology. Teachers take students through breath, movement, strength, balance and flexibility set to rhythmic music. Yogis are definitely encouraged to read through the class descriptions, as some detail that prior yoga experience is recommended. Power yoga appeals to the established yogis who want to sweat it out in an athletic and mentally challenging environment. Exhale Chill is a favorite for all levels, as it is restorative and designed to calm, repair and rebalance the body using bolsters, blankets and long-hold gentle stretching type poses.
Yogahop
26 E. Colorado Blvd.
Pasadena, CA 91105
(626) 844-7222
www.yogahop.com
For an energetic and exhilarating yoga workout, YogaHop is the place to be. Open to all levels, the class schedule accommodates the very beginner and the truly advanced. YogaHop brings a fun twist of East meets West vinyasa flow yoga with a variety of music. You'll hear everything including hip-hop, rock, current pop hits and world jams. While the tempo is upbeat, this yoga studio is still able to elevate one's spirituality and relaxation. Teachers take students through various poses from down dog and Warrior 2 to backbends, twists and pigeon poses, which offer students endurance and improved flexibility. Yoga instructors walk about class guiding students through traditional poses.
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