Santokh Yoga & Wellness Center — Attraction in Montclair

I’ve been a regular at the studio for months and always appreciated the space—until a recent experience left me shocked and deeply hurt. My arrival, although on time, I had to finish a call in the entryway. The gentleman opened the door and started shouting at me with slamming the door in my face. I was spoken to loudly and disrespectfully being said you don’t need to come today, just come next time—I’m not letting you in. I was shocked and honestly traumatized by this behavior.

This kind of treatment to anyone, but in this situation a paying yogi is unacceptable. Moments later, someone else was let in without issue, and I entered with them because I had shown up for myself, especially after a tough week of personal loss. I wasn’t going to let someone’s rude behavior take away a space that’s meant to be healing.

Yoga is about kindness and presence, not just in class (where classes I have attended in your studio talk about kindness and positivity) but in how people are treated at the door. I am unsure if this is the owner or not and it is the choice of the location on what policies they put in place, communicating with professionalism and compassion—not aggression and also consistent with what I have experienced in the past and witness others experiencing. I’m still unsure if I’ll return and want to believe this is one-off situation, but I share this so others are aware and save them from the shock I am experiencing: no one deserves to be spoken to or treated like that, whether it’s their first time or...

I came to this studio for the first time and took my first hot vinyasa class in almost ten years. The owner checked me in, he was kind and so helpful. He showed me around the studio, explained all of the different classes to me, and helped me figure out which teachers/classes might be best for me as I come back to yoga. The instructor, Jessica, was so great. She was motivating and encouraging and I loved how she would say, “go a little lower, hold a little longer… because you can”. Every time I felt like I couldn’t do it, her voice was in my head reminding me that I can. I’ve also taken a hot vinyasa with another teacher who was subbing in, I forget her name but she was amazing. I also take the yin yoga and sound bath every Thursday with Olivia which is an amazing moment to pause and come back to myself at the end of each week. The studio is really nice and clean. There is a hot yoga room and a non-hot room, so they offer all kinds of different classes for those just starting, coming back after a long time, or for those who have been practicing for years. They also offer different classes based on what you’re seeking to get out of yoga- exercise, self reflection, spiritual connection, grounding… of course any practice is what you make it, but the environment you’re in makes a huge difference and Santokh creates a peaceful yet empowering space to...

Santokh Yoga Studio in Montclair has truly been a delightful discovery for me as a newcomer to yoga. I attend the 6 PM class on Fridays, and I couldn't be happier with my experience. Gabriella, the instructor, is simply fantastic. From the very first session, she has made me feel welcome and at ease, which is crucial for someone who's just starting out. Her patience is remarkable; she takes the time to ensure that everyone understands the poses and their benefits, making it accessible for beginners like myself. The studio itself has a comforting atmosphere that helps to alleviate any anxiety about being a novice. The calming decor and soft lighting create a serene environment that invites relaxation and focus. Gabriella's soothing voice and demeanor enhance the experience even further. She offers gentle encouragement throughout the class, which makes it easy to let go of any self-doubt and truly immerse myself in the practice. Overall, I highly recommend Santokh Yoga Studio to anyone, especially those new to yoga. The combination of a supportive instructor and a peaceful setting makes it the perfect place to begin this journey. I look forward to my Friday...