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| - I, like many, snagged a Groupon for an unlimited month of yoga at IFY. I had planned to try a couple different studios in town in this manner before considering shelling out a not insignificant amount of money to practice regularly. I used to occasionally practice yoga, but always in a gym environment...but that was years ago. I am not the most svelte (to say the least!) or the most flexible individual around. I am naturally a very tightly wound individual, and I was always told yoga could possibly reduce my day to day anxiety levels. All that being said, I was rather hesitant going to my first class here.
My first class was Inner Fire Flow 75 with Hope. It was difficult, but I made it through the class before laying on my mat in a sweaty heap. But I felt amazing, physically but also emotionally.
Amazing enough to keep coming back. I've gone 3-4x a week since that class. I've tried the yin yoga (which I adore...almost like guided stretching and relaxation, very restorative) as well as power yoga (whew, exhausting...in a good way) and slow flow with meditation. Every teacher has been very welcoming to me as an obvious beginner. I do have to say the hot yoga classes really aren't for me, but the one I attended seemed well taught. Each class has felt like an absolute treat for myself, and I leave feeling better than when I entered.
All in all, I've decided to join up for a monthly membership. Besides falling in love with yoga here, the ample parking and packed class schedule are logistically better than I've seen at many competing studios. A downside is that I live in Fitchburg and work downtown, but honestly I'd prefer a slightly longer drive if I don't have to worry about parking when I get there. They also offer occasional two hour "immersion" workshops every month or so that are free for members. Next month's will be a yin immersion, which I am very much looking forward to.
Downsides...they could use more showers. Not a huge fan of incense that is sometimes burned at the end of class. Entryway can get crowded between classes. All minor complaints.
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