I was delighted when Big Shoulders opened in my neighborhood. I've struggled to find a yoga "home" since moving to Chicago 5 years ago and Big Shoulders feels like it might be it! The "Medium" class was just the right mix of a strong foundation practice with some peak poses (inversions and arm balances with modifications offered) for me - I felt grounded and challenged, but I think even a beginner would be fine with modifications in this class - very accessible. The teachers are helpful and considerate and I felt very comfortable and supported in my practice. The studio itself is very comfortable - the heater is loud when it's running, but the temperature is just right - warm without being hot/overly sweaty. Class schedule is pretty standard though I'd love either some earlier morning options on the weekdays and weekends or a late afternoon/evening class that ends before daycare pickup on weekdays - hopefully the schedule continues to grow over time. The atmosphere seems welcoming (we've all been to intimidating studios - I didn't get that vibe) and it seems clear that the owners are intent on building a great community here. I'm looking forward to...
Read moreI'm very excited about this new studio in West Town! It's primarily staffed by teachers who worked under The Lab's old management. All of the teachers offer smart sequences, appropriate and quality adjustments, and teach more of a hatha style (meaning slower than a vinyasa class but quite physically challenging for those seeking it). I'm looking forward to going to class here because I can come to milder classes when I'm feeling tired and need to feel restored, and also attend spicier classes when I want to attempt more challenging poses and transitions. The "vibe" of the studio is really nice too! There is minimal hokey new age vibes, and really just feels like a good community of people coming together to practice and teach yoga! The studio is stocked with free mats and props, there is some free neighborhood street parking and ample pay to park, the cork floors in the studio are super soft , pricing is pretty standard for yoga and you can always reach out to the owner (Nicolette) about current deals/discounts. I highly recommend checking out BSY, you may find your new...
Read moreBSY is an incredible small studio in West Town and some of the best yoga in the city! The vibe is down-to-earth and welcoming. It's easy to get to know other students. The studio also has changing spaces, lockers, mat storage, and a few spaces to hang out before/after class during normal operations.
Every pose is broken down step-by-step so each student has something to work on, no matter the class. The teachers are highly knowledgable about each pose and are always ready to offer alternatives and answer questions. Many of the teachers have taught and practiced together for years, so there's cohesion in how every class at BSY class is structured but it's never stale stale or repetitive. Adjustments in class (when they're allowed) are gentle and the absolute best. The individualized attention is beyond feel-good.
I appreciate that BSY offers live classes online for those that still prefer practicing from home. In person, the studio enforces social distancing and additional cleaning to keep...
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