I have taken two classes at this place, about 2 weeks apart. I absolutely loved the first class. I loved the teacher (Hela Kalicharran), the atmosphere and the flow of the yoga class. The second class (with Lauren Harris) left a sour taste in my mouth.
The facility has a no phone in the studio policy, which is fair, but the sign about this isn’t very obvious and this policy was not announced prior to the start of class, so I was completely unaware of it.
I had my phone next to my yoga mat (silenced, not on vibrate but on “do not disturb” which allowed calls on vibrate only from my mother who was watching my infant for me and who was strictly instructed to call me only if there was an emergency). During class the teacher noticed my phone and just proceeded to take it away, stating no phones are allowed and that my phone would be at the front desk. My phone was facing down and not lighting up or ringing. Then she proceeded to walk around the room and take all the phones away, and comment on how “these shouldn’t be here” instead of teaching the class!!! Her behavior was completely disruptive to the class. If the purpose of not allowing phones in the studio is because phones are disruptive, then why behave in such a way? Why not just politely remind everyone in the beginning of class that phones are not allowed, assuming newcomers may not know this policy? Or quietly and respectfully ask each person who had a phone to turn off their phone and not bring it in next time. Something else this teacher did was that she made a comment — “your nipples have to face the front of the room” — when trying to instruct the class on proper body mechanics. Then she made a childish remark, “there I said it. I said the word nipples hahaha”. This class honestly made me feel like I was in high school all over again. It was really off putting.
I’m 35 years old with a full time job and an infant at home. I don’t need to be treated like a teenager the one night I get to be away from my kid and have some adult/me time, just because I kept my phone on me in case there was an emergency with my child. The teacher’s behavior was really unprofessional and patronizing. I might give this place one last shot, only because my first experience here was a pleasant one, however, I will definitely not be attending Lauren Harris’ class again.
I highly recommend the studio instruct their staff on respecting their clients’ personal property and inform clients of the no phone policy at check in or prior to class start. I also recommend training on appropriate language/reading the room and training on gearing the class to your audience (i.e., adults,...
Read moreYes to Gina’s class! However, unsure I will return.
I’ve been practicing yoga consistently for 6 years and have practiced at a few dozen studios in LA, SD, and NYC. Upon entering a studio, I am usually greeted with warmth, a smiling face, and a person who makes me feel welcome…usually.
I’ve been to NY Loves Yoga once before and they had a great front desk person, but today, I was greeted by a woman with dark long hair and glasses who was just…cold. No smile, no warmth, but she was notably chipper to another elderly woman who walked in after me. This made me feel unwelcome.
Brushed it off, rented a mat for $2 and had a great practice with Gina.
When I went to return the mat to the front desk person, she put her hand in a “shoo” motion, “You can leave that over there.” Call it disdain, disregard, or an off day, but this left a bad taste in my mouth.
I commuted from Harlem to take this class, I spent my money and time here, and this person’s attitude tainted what was otherwise a...
Read moreI almost hate to write a review here - because I love this place so much and don't want it to become too popular! I have practiced for several years, and checked out many other studios in the City. I also travel so will drop in on classes in other areas when I'm away. NYLY is just very special. The instructors are mindful and attentive. Classes are taught in a welcoming studio. Regardless of your area of practice you're bound to have a good experience. One caveat - the classes are, for the most part, "challenging". If you are a beginner, you might consider taking a private class to get the most out of your experience before jumping into the group setting. Wonderful place. Wonderful...
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