Valkyrie Yoga — Local services in San Diego

This was probably the worst experience I've ever had at a yoga class - and I have attended many. I was interested in the Yin+Connection class because the description stated this was a place to help people feel supported during times of isolation, and there would be an opportunity to connect in a circle. I thought this would be a unique opportunity to feel supported in a difficult time of my own stress and isolation.

I arrived about 15 minutes early and the instructor, "Seya" Speake-Pine arrived a few minutes before the start of class. Only she and I were in the room for several minutes, and she did not acknowledge my presence - at all. No hello, no introductions, just moved a little around the room but didn't need to do much to get ready, as the class did not require any special materials besides regular yoga equipment, and the room was already set up.

As other attendees came in, she greeted each one, hugging several regulars and chatting with them, with obvious excitement to see them. One other attendee who was new to the studio came in and the instructor introduced herself to them. I waited to see if she would introduce herself or say a single word to me - and she never did.

The class went on and it was nothing special - probably one of the lower quality yin classes I've taken. She did not offer any feedback throughout the class as we moved through the poses, other than offer modifications. I understand that not every teacher does modifications, but most notice if a student is struggling with a pose, and there were a couple I could have used some feedback for. I am fairly practiced at yoga, but I always appreciate when instructors pay attention to students when they aren't getting the poses - and this was a small class - about five students.

As the class ended and I was walking out, there was no goodbye or thank you for attending. "Seya" was busy talking to one of her regulars, and I heard her complain that she had to teach a class earlier that week to new people, and she didn't really like that because it wasn't "her people." Great, just what I want to hear from a "community" based yoga practice - that the instructor is into cliques. I've never had an instructor completely ignore me as a human coming into the practice - I don't need sunshine and rainbows, but hello, an introduction, and a "goodybe, thanks for coming," should be mandatory in the type of vulnerable environment that yoga creates - ESPECIALLY in a class that claims to be community focused and supposedly aims to reduce isolation.

Upon viewing "Seya's" website, I saw that she has a collection of practices under her belt, mostly full of new age baloney like reiki, "Past Life Regression Therapy & Quantum Hypnosis Sessions," and has founded an underground "earth school," where "ancient practices intersect with modern day social justice," whatever that means.

I find it hilarious that she says she practices trauma informed care, something that requires education and accreditation, not spiritual nonsense.

It isn't shocking this white blonde lady has appropriated the Hindu name of Seya. Lol.

This place fits into the "vibe" of festival going, "energy field," superficial nonsense that is a part of so much of the OB community. It's a shame nearly anyone can become a yoga teacher - and I'm sure she would say she went through a myriad of intensive training sponsored by whatever association - who cares? If the class sucks because you can't give individual attention or even a mere hello and goodbye to all participants, you...

The studio itself is an oasis of calm in the midst of the hustle and bustle of daily life. With its abundant plants, soothing lighting, and spacious layout, it feels like stepping into a serene sanctuary. The open feeling of the space immediately put me at ease, allowing me to leave my stresses behind and fully immerse myself in the practice.

But it's not just the aesthetics that make this studio special—it's the incredible instructors who lead each session. Their knowledge, passion, and genuine care for their students shine through in every class. They create an environment that is both supportive and challenging, encouraging each of us to explore our practice and push ourselves to new heights.

The combination of yoga and breathwork has been transformative for me. Not only have I noticed improvements in my strength, flexibility, and overall physical health, but I've also experienced profound shifts in my mental and emotional well-being. The instructors' guidance and expertise have been invaluable on my journey toward self-discovery and self-improvement.

Whether you're a seasoned yogi or a complete beginner, I cannot recommend this studio highly enough. It's a place where you can come as you are, leave your worries at the door, and connect with yourself on a deeper level. Trust me, your mind, body, and soul will...

Next level! This studio is a sanctuary that embraces every one and supports self healing.

My favorite yoga classes are "breathwork and yoga" by Agnete at Valkyrie. There, by deeply breathing first, one has an easy time taking different asanas, and afterwards gets to breathe deeply again, as great preparation for a wonderful savasana/final relaxation, with sound healing by a pro. This three segments don't feel like a structure but rather are received by the soul, mind, and body as a natural flow of life.

Definitely a higher level of yoga practice! And all the breathwork classes are amazing, each teacher has a unique style and offers a special container, for example, incorporating different modalities of sound and energy healing.

If it will be your first time doing deep breathwork, I highly recommend the sessions offered by the owner Agnete, and by instructor Rus; while all teachers at Valkyrie will exceed any expectations, these two are my very favorite ones.

So healing and spiritual,...