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| - This is the studio where I had my first ever yoga practice and I still pop by occasionally whenever I'm in the area to check out their drop-in classes.
The Bad:
Over the years, I feel like I've seen Kula go through a lot of changes. When it first opened, it didn't have an overly 'factory' feel to it, which I think one person observed below. This meant that there was ample room for everyone. Now, though, it looks as though all of the classes I go to are absolutely packed, to the point where it is difficult to do a flow sequence without accidentally kicking someone. This also means that the changing rooms are totally full; it is difficult to get space on one of the benches to put your bags and to change.
I also echo what someone said below about the impersonal feel that you get from this studio. The teachers are, for the most, part, kind, generous with their time, and inspirational. However, some of the people who work behind the front desk feel a bit...too cool for school. There are some students who are treated warmly but the rest are treated indifferently. I personally don't care all that much, but it certainly doesn't have the warm, inclusive vibe that it had years ago.
The Good:
Before I start sounding like some old fogey who reminisces too much on the good old days, I must say that Kula is still a great studio. Yes, it is crowded. And yes, it may be a bit impersonal. But, as mentioned, most of the teachers are pretty awesome. Each teacher teaches classes in a way that reflects their personalities. A special shout-out go to Tessa and Ana Maria, who are just great! This also means that you can choose which teacher suits YOUR yoga preference. I personally can't do a lot of Marinella's classes because I find that her classes stress me out but I have friends who love her. By giving a variety of classes that each imbibe the teacher's personal 'touch', Kula provides a great way to cater to different people's preferences. (I would add, though, that some of the classes taught by the teachers going through the teachers' training program are a mixed bag. I took a $5 community class taught by one such student and it was horrific. I feel like the teacher wanted to show off how well she could do splits and backbends and shoulder stands rather than show the students different variations of the same poses).
Another good thing about Kula is the price. Where else can you find $8 classes offered daily? Seriously, yoga in this city can be so expensive, but Kula ensures that prices are kept reasonable.
Lastly, I like that Kula offers regular workshops and tries to provide new, innovative classes. They recently started offering 'power yoga' classes, which are such good fun and such a great work-out.
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In sum, despite the negative changes that have taken place over the last few years, Kula is still one of my top studies in the city.
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