What to look for in a yoga studio

Are you preparing to return to public yoga classes? Are you thinking about changing studios? Are you just starting your yoga journey and want to know what to look out for when choosing a yoga studio? Just as all yoga teachers are different, all yoga studios have their own unique aspects. From high-end, minimalist studios with mood lighting and ultra-fancy furnishings to spaces with a deep sense of community and lineage and perhaps more “traditional” styles of yoga.

Whatever studio you choose, it's important to remember that a yoga studio isn't just bricks and mortar; It is made of devotion, love and very often it becomes a place that you consider a refuge. I've rounded up a few of the key things to look for in a yoga studio, as well as getting some first-hand opinions from yoga students across the UK. Read on for our must-know tips!

Accessibility & Inclusivity

"I would look for a teacher who I don't find intimidating. I don't want to see photos of someone with their arms and legs in an unreal position." These are the words of one yoga student who told me what he would look for in a yoga studio or class, and they echo the feeling of so many others who walk through the doors of a yoga room. While photos of challenging yoga poses or pretzel-like shapes were popular about a decade ago when yoga started becoming a buzzword, we've now begun to realize that yoga is truly something that everyone can benefit from, regardless of their size, shape, or ability. When looking for a yoga studio, look for a space that feels inviting and has classes that suit your abilities. If you are a beginner, ask if there are any courses specifically focused on beginners or courses where you can learn and get comfortable with the basics. Ask the teacher for advice on the best class for you and know that you will never have to force yourself into a posture that feels wrong for your body.

Experienced teachers

We all have to start somewhere, and with new yoga teachers qualifying on a regular basis, there are many classes that may have new teachers at the front of the room. However, if this is your first time going to a yoga studio, it may be a good idea to find a class with an experienced teacher. Not only will the teacher have met and taught countless new students, but they will also likely be able to advise you on the use of props such as. goes blocks, belts and bricks in class. Most yoga studios have at least a few experienced teachers, so seek them out and try out their classes.

cleanliness

"I would look for a clean space that doesn't smell. I've been to a few hot yoga studios that didn't smell great before the class even started!" one yoga student told me when I asked her what they were looking for in a studio.

Especially in a post-pandemic world, cleanliness is something many of us will be looking for when entering a new studio. Yoga studios are often one of the cleanest places you can visit, and they usually use a diffuser to fill the room with scents of such thingsTisserand’s true calm or mind clear diffuser essential oils. When you lie on your yoga mat, check that the floor around you is clean (which is petty important since you spend a lot of time on the floor!), but if you want to make sure your own space is super squeaky clean, use the Yogamatters Restore yoga mat cleaner andDr. Bronner'sOrganic hand sanitizer for your own peace of mind.

Different styles of yoga

Sometimes we fall in love with a style of yoga that gives us everything we need, but changing things up a bit can really benefit us. Especially if you're a dedicated hardcore Ashtanga or Vinyasa flow practitioner, a yoga or yin yoga class can be a powerful way to bring balance to your body and mind. While some yoga studios specialize in a particular style, others offer a range of classes to suit your needs. Personally, I would look for a studio that offers a combination of dynamic and slower paced classes, as well as the opportunity to try different types of practice.

More than just attitudes

In addition to different styles of yoga, experiencing completely different aspects of yoga can help you deepen your practice and take the idea of ​​“yoga” far beyond the mat. Look for a yoga class or studio that offers pranayama (breathing techniques) as well as yoga nidra, or meditation. These types of yoga practice are a great way to experience the more traditional and effective methods of relaxing the nervous system and expand your knowledge of yoga itself. Look for yoga studios that also offer yoga philosophy workshops that will give you insight into the rich and fascinating history and meaning of yoga.

equipment

Not all yoga studios offer equipment, but if they do, it's a great way to try out yoga mats or pads before buying your own, and means you don't have to carry them when you're walking or cycling. Restorative yoga classes are a great way to practice using props since most poses require their use. Experience what it's like to be a . to use pillow or sandbag in a restful position. Use blocks to support you in an asana or experience what it feels like to practice on a non-slip high quality mat, versus a slippery one!

While we're on the topic of equipment, many people I asked said they wanted a studio that had a safe place to store items. If you can't bring your personal belongings to class, make sure the yoga studio has lockers or a secure room to store them while you practice.

Teachers who stick around

A secret sign of a good yoga studio is often the fact that the teachers actually want to be there... If a yoga studio treats its teachers well, it's likely that they'll be considerate of their customers too, and having a solid group of yoga teachers who have stayed with a studio for a long time is a great way to make sure they're most likely happy to be there too! Also look for classes where the teacher is consistent; When you know your yoga teacher will be there to teach week after week - rather than flying off for retreats and adventures - it's easier to build and improve your practice and get to know their style. If you are interested in enrolling in a yoga teacher training program, try practicing frequently with one of the teachers leading the class.

Somewhere to park

A surprisingly popular factor when looking for a yoga studio seems to be the availability of parking. Most people who said what they would look for in a yoga studio told me it was important that there was easy and free parking so they didn't have to worry about finding parking after class! It may sound strange, but if your yoga studio has a space you can park without stress while you try to relax in Savasana with your lavender-scented eye pillow, it will make a big difference in how calm you feel before and after your visit to the studio.

Good mood

Sometimes you just “know,” don’t you? The energy that a space contains can be stronger than anything material in it. If you walk into a yoga studio and immediately feel relaxed, welcome and part of a community, trust your intuition that this is a sign that you have probably found the studio for you!

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