I began taking yoga classes at Yoga NoHo Center on the two week special—I had been dealing with chronic constant daily lumbar back pain from two bulging discs with absolutely no relief from the standard western medicine protocol of physical therapy, and I refused to take opiates. For the record, I am a firm believer in the incredible impact of western medicine on the human lifespan and healthspan—but I cannot ignore the shortcomings of the field; at least in my own experience. After only three months of PT, I was sent to a spine specialist who was prepared to administer cortisone shots and/or microsurgery—on my spine!!!—for what they told me were mild to moderate structural abnormalities. That was unacceptable to me after only three months of less invasive treatment.
So I began to seek out alternative methods and landed on yoga a few months later. I found major relief in just two weeks of daily practice. As much as the physical practice helped, I believe the results I experienced came as quickly and expansively as they did due to the community at YNC surrounding me with positivity, encouragement and, most importantly, INFORMATION! I can’t stress enough the importance of the casual, yet robust, education I received.
I took a variety of classes with different teachers and every single one of them spent time before and after class, sometimes upwards of thirty minutes, to discuss my injury and offer any and every resource or tip they had to help me along in my healing. I was encouraged to look into everything from specific asana flows for strengthening, pain management and tension relief, to new stem cell procedures, to books on emotional repression and its impacts on the physical body. I wasn’t just told, “I hope you feel better!”—though that was always the second to last thing said to me, just before I was encouraged to reach out with any questions and to please let them know how I progressed as I went. Compassion and empathy run rampant at YNC!
I was so thrilled with my experience and progress that I joined the Yoga Teacher Training program at YNC immediately, with the simple goal of learning in depth how to fine tune my yoga practice to avoid further injuring myself. I could not have made a better decision as to how to spend my four months in California before returning home to New York. The program, led by co-owners Karen and Michelle, offered a breadth of knowledge on all things yoga related.
But, to my surprise and delight, it was about so much more than that. It was an unexpectedly introspective experience guiding you to heightened self and body awareness. I completed the program more than just a certified yoga instructor. I feel I came out a more complete human being—not to mention one with a dozen sure-to-be lifelong friends. Something about this experience creates a unique bond with your fellow students.
YNC changed my perception of yoga. I learned it heals body and mind alike, given time and consistent practice. Yoga has become a part of my regular routine and lifestyle. I couldn’t be more grateful for the time I was able to spend learning and practicing at YNC. I would recommend their YTT, classes and workshops to anyone. Literally anyone! If you have any questions, feel free to message me and I’ll try to help any way I can (in the YNC spirit).
Special thanks to Michelle and Karen for creating and fostering such an incredibly supportive environment for community engagement and education in managing (and enjoying) mind, body and...
Read moreI just called this studio and asked if they could tell me what the difference between the Hatha class verses the Vinyasa class then teach on Weds. The girl who answered the phone said she did not know the difference between those styles of yoga and was not familiar with the classes and suggested I google it. I asked her how she could not know the difference between the class styles and she went on to say "like I dont know - Im like kinda new - like - ya know." As a business owner I was mortified and I told her she needs do her due diligence and do some research on the place she is working at. To have some one responding to a potential new customer this way was a very poor representation of the company and I am only putting this out to let the managment, owners know so they can get professional and informed employees to answer their phones. I feel bad for them because if some one answered my businesses phone like that Id...
Read moreYoga NoHo Center is truly a gem. The studio is always spotless—clean, calming, and beautifully maintained, which makes such a difference in creating a peaceful, grounded environment. Every time I walk in, I immediately feel welcomed and at ease.
The teachers are phenomenal—so knowledgeable, kind, and genuinely invested in each student’s experience. They’re always happy to offer variations and modifications, and I’ve never once felt judged or out of place. Whether you’re working with an injury, navigating limitations, or just want to deepen your practice, they meet you exactly where you are.
I also really appreciate the variety of classes they offer. From gentle and restorative to more dynamic flows, there’s something for everyone and every mood. I’m so grateful to have found this community. Yoga NoHo Center is a place where I always feel supported, inspired, and...
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