(image from images.nymag.com)
Went to Yoga To The People on 16th in the Mission tonight. The place is in a pretty rough part of town, but it’s located in a secured building. You have to climb up 5 flights of stairs to get to the studio. There’s no locker room just cubbies, two bathrooms and a few changing curtains. But don’t let the initial impression stop you, the place is a gem. Everyone takes off their shoes before entering the beautiful studio, all wood and candles. You can rent a mat for $2 and buy water for $1. They have blocks and blankets to borrow but bring your own towel, cause you’ll sweat. The class isn’t as strenuous as Bikram but it is high intensity.
They played old school rock like The Beatles and Rolling Stones, which was a change from the usual new age music they play at my studio, but not distracting. The instructor had a Brooklyn accent and his voice was direct, yet he made us laugh and feel at ease. It was a welcomed change from my usual teacher’s calming low voice. The place has no mirrors (awesome!) and was dimmed to candlelight as the practice went on. it was a very non competitive and unpretentious atmosphere. They ask for a $10 donation at the end. I left with a great body high. I’ll be going again for sure.
