The Class: The Yoga Movement’s Deep Stretch class works your body without you even knowing it, teaching you how to repair your yogi muscles and, of course, find your center.
The Appeal: This class is for anyone who’s ever had a bad day – yogis and non-yogis alike. Seriously, this class could have prevented both world wars had certain world leaders gotten their Zen on.
The Instructor: Shanell, who had clearly found her center long ago, exuded nothing but calmness, with her gentle voice and dainty movements. Between checking our form and reminding us to breathe from the bottom of our bellies, Shanell participated in the class herself, leading from a mat at the front of the room. I enjoyed her amusing phrases that helped me understand how each pose was supposed to feel and what it was supposed to do. A few of my favorite Shanell phrases: “We increase our circulation to get our bodies super juicy – so we don’t break when we stretch.” “Try to find ease in the effort.”
The Space: Although lodged between traffic from both the Katy Trail and Central Expressway, The Yoga Movement, located at 4931 Airline Rd., perfectly embodied serenity. Once the door closed, all noise ceased, save the soft hum of the studio’s lullaby-esque soundtrack. Dim lighting made the barren room feel welcoming rather than sterile, and a large, mirrored wall allowed us to check our form (and sneak glances at our friends across the room as they contorted their bodies into pretzel-like positions). There were also plenty of mats, blankets, and blocks for anyone who didn’t have their own.
Who’s There: The crowd consisted mostly of young women, although there were a few young men as well. Most importantly, there were yogis of all levels, from first-timers to certified yoga instructors.
How It Went: It was fabulous. We stretched, posed, and sweat for 55 minutes. Then, we took a 5-minute nap, sinking into the ground and relaxing every body part one by one, from our eyebrows to our toes.
The Aftermath: If the class hadn’t put me in such a lovely mood, I would have been upset it was over. It’s safe to say I left a converted yogi.
Loved: Everything. The room was quiet, calm, and quaint. The people were polite and happy (true yogis). The location was close and convenient. I loved how I felt afterward – relaxed and refreshed.
Hated: Nothing. Well, I did hate the fact that the class was only offered once that week.
Cost: An individual class at The Yoga Movement is only $15, making it a great place to try out a new type of class, from Vinyasa to Acromovement. And if you love what you try, which you more than likely will, new members can purchase a 10-class pass for $50. Monthly passes are also available for $112.
Difficulty Level: While my body was challenged and sufficiently worked – both my friend and I left sweating like a Dallasite should in August – the Deep Stretch class was not difficult for a yoga newbie like myself. I recommend this class to everyone, no matter your age or ability.
