Heart and Soul of Yoga- Astoria’s Yoga Secret

I don’t know about you, but a hush-hush new speak-easy, hidden back room sample sale, or invitation only event immediately rises to the top of my radar. This is the case with Heart and Soul of Yoga here in Astoria. My fellow WHA gal, Meg had been raving about a hidden little yoga sanctuary she regularly attends. I took note and made it a point to check it out.

Hidden in her basement apartment on 35th St., owner and Hidden in her basement apartment instructor Vanessa Francis  brings ISHTA yoga to our hood. ISHTA,

or Integrated Science of Hatha, Tantra, and Ayurveda yoga, created by well known yogi Alan Finger, is the sanskrit word for “individualized”. This means lots of props to help you through difficult postures or asanas, modifications for any injuries, and classes tailored to the bodies who are in the room. Heart and Soul offers classes for all levels including Pre and Post natal, Yoga for Kids, and Meditation.

I prefer to workout in the middle of my day so their 12:30 lunch-time class suits me just fine.  Pre-registration is a must here, as their space is super small, literally Vanessa’s living room. Couches pushed against the wall and an inactive TV in one corner, she transforms her abode into a cozy yoga den. The day I went was a rainy Tuesday afternoon and immediately I felt welcomed into this warm yoga sanctuary. The class was teeny tiny. Just three of us spread out our mats surrounded with all of our props like yoga straps, blocks, boulsters, and blankets. One of my classmates was a yoga virgin, so instructor Barbara Gross expertly crafted the class to suit the needs of her students.

Bottom line: this studio is perfect for beginners or those who want to avoid the masses and learn the art of yoga in a intimate safe protected atmosphere. However, if you’re looking for something more vigorous or advanced this studio isn’t a sure bet. Since most of the classes are open level, you won’t know in advance who’s going to be on the mat next to you. I emailed Vanessa about this and she says when registering make sure to include comments on what kind of class you’re looking to take. This is fine if you have a pretty flexible schedule like me, but may prove problematic for those who have to plan their exercise adventures ahead of time. Either way, even the most basic class here at Heart and Soul is of value, but I’m looking forward to trying out another class soon that’ll give me a little more run for my money. Sign up for their newsletter and get your first class free as well as their new student offer: 2 classes for just $15.

 

Heart and Soul of Yoga

32-18 35th St (just of Broadway)

Astoria, 11106

718-932-2567

www.heartandsoulofyoga.com