These Columbia area studios put a twist on traditional yoga classes
There are about a billion reasons to love summer, and here’s one more: Those hazy, crazy days encourage us to break out of our routine and, maybe, try something new.
That counts for exercise, too. All over the Columbia area, yoga studios are putting a fresh face on this ancient practice with live music, fun venues and even laughter.
Here are a few offerings:
YOGA WITH BEER
In the three years since Jean Boiteau has been leading the Sunday yoga class at Conquest Brewery, she’s seen the class become a sort of community. “Class includes a free beer, so instead of rushing out to their next real-world activities, participants stick around and visit, which is great,” she said.
Start time: Noon
Class length: 1 hour
Cost: $10
Info: yogawithjeanb@gmail.com
YOGA WITH LIVE MUSIC
Rooted in Well Being’s third-Friday evening class is proof that live music and candlelight make anything better. Taught by owner Anne Miller, the all-level class will take place in a studio lighted by candles, set to the soulful, bluesy sounds of Don Laurin. It’s a relaxing way to glide into the weekend.
Start time: 6:30 p.m.
Class length: 1 hour
Cost: $10
Info: www.rootedinwellbeing.org
YOGA WITH SUNSHINE
As if yoga and stand-up paddleboarding needed to be any more challenging, Chapin Yoga Center’s SUP Yoga Sundays class combines the two on Lake Murray.
“Part of the practice is falling into the water at the very beginning,” said instructor Ashley Petty. “That way, no one is intimidated about being first.”
Beginners will appreciate modifications to each pose so it can be performed without fully standing; experienced yogis will love the extra core challenge.
Start time: 6:15 p.m.-ish
Class length: About an hour
Cost: $40 with board rental; $30 if you bring your own
Info: www.chapinyogacenter.com. Location changes weekly; registered participants receive an email detailing sites.
YOGA FROM THE SKY
Some yoga poses can be tough on stiff wrists and shoulders. At Pink Lotus, swing and aerial yoga alleviates that stress with a silk sling that supports the body and takes the weight off tender joints.
It’s also wonderfully liberating to hang, snug and safe, upside-down. In August, instructor Channing Anderson will once again offer the bonding “Wear Your Baby” yoga class for new moms.
Start time: Various
Class length: 75 minutes
Cost: $20, swing; $12, “Wear Your Baby”
Information: www.pinklotusyogacenter.com
About this series
This is one in our Summer of Self-Improvement series, about fun ways to raise the bar for yourself.
This story was originally published July 19, 2017 at 1:57 PM with the headline "These Columbia area studios put a twist on traditional yoga classes."