I have been attending Peachtree yoga for several years. The hidden gem in the studio is Jayshree's prenatal yoga class, which I started when pregnant with my first baby in 2014. Jayshree is a true expert in prenatal yoga. Not only that, she truly cares about her students. The class starts by checking in on what week of pregnancy you are in and then if we have any issues as related to pregnancy. She does this to assess the needs of each woman and tailor the class in order to prevent injuries as well as aid in relief. She also asks about yoga experience as some women have never practiced yoga whereas others were very skilled. She explains to the class the purpose of this is to recommend modifications through the poses. My first class I started with lower back pain resulting from pregnancy and it was relieved once the class was finished. Since then I was hooked with attending the class every week. As I continued with the class I started to not only benefit physically, but mentally and spiritually. I was also going to the gym at least 5 days a week but her class was the major driving force that brought me peace and relaxation during my pregnancy. Her class prepares you for the unknown that comes with labor something that other labor classes don't teach( I took 5 classes at the hospital and didn't learn the pearls of wisdom that I learned from Jayshree). Once we finish with the class she has fruit for the class members and allows us to talk for a few mins with other women as well as her. I have never been to a yoga class that is also so supportive and welcomes forming connections with others. I have met some amazing women in the class and continue to keep in touch with them. Jayshree would also send us birth stories from women in the class that were educational, inspirational, and full of gratitude. I was very sad when I was approaching the end of my pregnancy as I wanted to continue benefiting from her class. I remember thinking I wish she taught a regular yoga class too. I am now pregnant again and returned to her class happily. I have been doing yoga for over 15 years and Jayshree hands down is the best. She truly cares and is passionate and professional. My only complaint is that there is only one class she teaches per week as I think pregnant women could benefit from yoga several times a week. Pregnancy and labor is no joke and if you want to be prepared physically and mentally...
Read moreI very rarely if ever write reviews. My experience with PYC took place 3-4 months ago- and I can't stop thinking about the damage that Jayshree (Prenatal Yoga Instructor) could potentially cause on pregnant women. When I found out I was pregnant - my regular yoga teacher recommended I try a few prenatal classes before coming back to regular yoga. The class was 90 minutes- and I can honestly say we only actually practiced yoga about 20 minutes. The remainder of the time she went around the room and asked each of us how our pregnancy was going (mind you this made me uncomfortable- as I do not want/need other people to know what is going on in my body). She then took the time to TELL each of us how we SHOULD be managing our pregnancy symptoms- because she is a Doctor???? She proceeded to preach to us how we should only consider natural childbirth and that having and epidural could harm us- (again because she is a doctor?). Mommy shame/guilt is strong enough when you are expecting- but now I have to hear it at yoga? I was so offended, I have never attended another prenatal class. I also went back to my regular yoga instructor and told her my experience- she swore to never refer anyone to her again.
It didn't stop there... I signed up for her "email" list. She sends frequent emails trying to solicit you to buy things and donate to causes. She also further reiterates how you should be handling your pregnancy and preaches her religious and personal views. I even received and email talking about how many women die during childbirth????? My husband read the emails and wanted to call the studio and complain. Instead, I just unsubscribed to her emails (which I should have done long before that). Do not go to her class.. she is self promoting and has her own agenda that could cause harm to you! I am sure there are other prenatal classes out...
Read moreEfrain Brady who teaches tai chi here every Sunday morning is the best I’ve found in Atlanta. The classes have been centering, refreshing and rejuvenating. I’ve found Efrain a very welcoming, knowledgeable and good teacher.
Tai chi can be practiced or expressed in 2 ways — As a martial art, or as “Moving Meditation”. Efrain teaches the art of Moving Meditation, which works for me because I’m looking for something to help me unplug from work and get me to breathe, move and improve coordination while developing mindfulness of mind and body.
Tai chi has Chinese origins, but I can attest to the depth of Efrain’s knowledge and skills. I spent my teens and twenties immersed in Chinese martial arts, my uncle is a world famous qigong teacher, and I’ve friends and family who are TCM doctors, so I know more than most about what’s genuine and what’s quack. I’ve seen my fair share of quacks and the nuances in the between.
I think Efrain is the best that I’ve found in Atlanta because with decades of experience as a licensed tai chi and TCM practitioner, he has the knowledge, science and principles of the use of tai chi as a wholistic path to a healthy spirit and body. At the same time, I can see that he has martial arts foundation as well, so his postures are polished and when I ask about postures or for tips on helping me move right, the depth of his knowledge shows with how his explanations and suggestions are so on point. Efrain is very balanced and meets you where you’re at.
I’m leaving this review because Peachtree Yoga doesn’t show up on Google Map as a location for tai chi, but it should! Efrain is...
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