Maha Yoga — Local services in Philadelphia

I thought about whether or not to write this review, especially during a time when the world could use a bit more compassion, but here I am.

I had my first class at Maha studio this past Sunday and I was speechless afterwards. Before I get into my issue, I would like to say that I’ve been practicing vinyasa for 5 years, I’m YTT certified, and I’m deep in my ashtanga practice. Basically, I’m not brand new to yoga, so I occasionally pick up on things that others might miss.

I’d also like to say that the studio was nice and that the people were very friendly.

Back to the class. Che was the teacher and she was very friendly but her class felt off. She talked entirely too much. There was absolutely no “flow” in her practice. It felt very disjointed. We missed postures when switching sides. Which is only human, but it happened often.

She didn’t give great instruction about which side of the body we were on, so everyone in the class was all over the place. Which she was totally ok with. She seemed confused which made us confused.

The class was also live-streamed for a virtual session and that was a bit distracting, but only because she kept pointing it out. Otherwise it wouldn’t have been an Issue.

We were there for 90 min but I didn’t feel like we did anything. It wasn’t a gentle or restorative class, it was all-levels vinyasa.

I’m going to try another instructor because the studio is nice. Again, Che was very kind. No problem with her as a human, but wanted to provide an honest critique of her class as a newbie. Maybe her students are use to her style and I’m the outlier. She might be the wrong teacher for me and that could be the case.

But I felt strong enough about my energy during the class, that I had to write...

What do you even say about the place where you find so much peace and happiness? Where you meet people who are so delightful, they become family? Where you can heckle your teachers? Maha is a national treasure in the greatest city in the world. My first class was with Alan as a sub. Alan offered animal facts with progressions and silliness, and I was sold. I am a devoted Alan fan. 4ever. I was fortunate to take advanced classes with Justicia even though it had been eons since I had folded myself in to such incredible pretzel shapes. Terrifyingly satisfying? YES. I love Karen's strength when she teaches us, she makes me want to be stronger, not just foldy. Haley? She is a delight. So much so that my cat is obsessed with her since I practice remotely. Jills focus on core strength and her sequences are divine. And I detest core work. But she makes it fun and enjoyable, and her classes focus on some challenging poses is amazing. Deepthi's pranayama and her soothing voice remind you that breathing is important but also a good thing to do. Desiree's upbeat uplifting classes make my heart happy. If I could, I would have relocated the whole gang down to my new home, for me personally because they are the absolute best. When in Philly, I make it a point to take as many classes with my favorite people because they bring me such joy. Bonus stickers for dvr classes for a random evening hip opener sequence or gentle class. I...

The BEST. I’ve practiced with Justicia at Maha for years, including basic classes, advanced seminars, streaming classes (thanks covid), outdoor venues, and international trips. The studio space is beautiful and Justicia provides concise instruction, positive energy, and the right balance of effort, humility, and playfulness every time. I know I can trust her judgment in all things yoga, whether it’s just the fundamentals or a complicated sequence/pose, coping with an injury, or taking a trip into the jungle. She’ll make you feel like family from your first visit, help you safely test the limits of your comfort zone, and guide you through the physical, emotional, and spiritual elements of yoga beyond your expectations. Thank you Justicia (and the other excellent instructors at Maha) for your insight, guidance, and...