Avalon Art & Yoga Center

4.5 star rating
40 reviews Rating Details

Category: Yoga  [Edit]

370 S California Ave
Palo Alto, CA 94306
(650) 324-2517
Hours:

Mon, Sat 7 am - 9 pm

Tue-Fri 7 am - 8:30 pm

Sun 8 am - 9 pm

Good for Kids:
No
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40 reviews in English

  • Review from yin t.

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    • 44 friends
    • 37 reviews

    San Mateo, CA

    5.0 star rating
    8/14/2011 3 Check-ins Here

    A great place to deepen your Yoga practice.  

    For the Ashtanga girls and boys try Mon & Fri night classes from Shastri.  Do take Wed night's clinic for the technical breakdown from Louis.  Complement with Sat night strong flow with Courtney.

    If you like Flow or Vinyasa classes take Janya's Sun class or Britta's on Thu's.  

    For a therapeutic yoga, Kelly's class on  Sat.

    You really can not go wrong with any class at Avalon.

  • Review from Serena G.

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    • 0 friends
    • 22 reviews

    Palo Alto, CA

    3.0 star rating
    1/17/2012

    I've only been to two classes, and am most definitely not an expert yogi. I went to one restorative class with Mercedes and one Yin class with a substitute instructor. They were just not my style. I really like expert corrections on my form, and to walk out with that terrific, exhilarating "yoga high." In both classes there were minimal or no corrections, and I walked out feeling just okay.

    I wish the bathroom were not in the back, so that you have to walk through the studio to get there, and that there were no paintings on the studio walls. I also don't like leaving my shoes outside the studio in the store area -- it would be nice to have cubbies in the studio or lockers instead. The front desk staff was very nice on both visits. I know it's kind of unfair to rate a studio based on just two classes -- if I go back and have a different experience, I'll update this review.

  • Review from Ms. A.

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    • 7 friends
    • 25 reviews

    Menlo Park, CA

    4.0 star rating
    9/1/2011

    It gets better...stick with me...

    The first time I came here about two years ago, I was really turned off by the class I attended.  I do not recall the instructor, but it was supposed to be a beginner's class, and I went with a friend to try out the studio.  We asked at the front desk about a trial first class and were denied (which I was very confused about later when I found that they give out coupons for a free first class).  Really?  You can't allow people to have that benefit one time without the coupon?  

    Anyway, we paid $18 each and entered the class.  The teacher used more Sanskrit than English, which meant we were constantly having to strain our necks to figure out what to do.  Then she had us do some partner poses at the wall involving faces extremely close to butts (since most of us were probably strangers and I was partnered with a stranger, this did not make me feel any more comfortable).  After that class, which hardly seemed to cater to beginners, I swore off Avalon.  

    I started going to Devi and really liked their classes and laid back feel.  Then, they closed. :(  I was studio-less.  I tried Be Yoga next, and although that seemed okay at first, my experiences there declined rapidly, so I refused to go anymore.  Once again, studio-less.  

    A teacher I really liked from Devi was teaching at Avalon, so I thought I would go to her class since I already knew and trusted her style (Mercedes).  Her classes continue to be great, and I have expanded to taking classes from Janya, Doris, & Kelly, along with the odd sub here and there (I try to avoid subs, though, unless they are one of their regular teachers).  Most classes I've attended I'd rate as good to excellent.  Janya is exceptional!  She radiates all that is wonderful about yoga and meditation.  The other women I mentioned are great, too.  

    Avalon is now my studio. :)  There are things I would change about it, but overall, it's a lovely space with friendly instructors.  I recommend!

  • Review from jamie A.

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    • 0 friends
    • 5 reviews

    Santa Clara, CA

    5.0 star rating
    2/4/2012

    What an awesome studio!

    I just went to the free couples yoga with Doris (which is offered first Saturday night of every month) and it was awesome! So fun to do on a date, or even just with a friend. And it was unsurprisingly relaxing!

    Also, I know Doris teaches some other classes and she is such a good instructor! I highly recommend taking one with her.

  • Review from Monica T.

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    • 6 friends
    • 132 reviews

    Palo Alto, CA

    5.0 star rating
    6/24/2011

    Avalon the studio - I give the studio 3.5 stars it's just slightly above average, it's very clean and well maintained and the staff is always really nice. I have an issue with pricing - with so many yoga places in the area I find that Avalon is the most high-priced.  Drop in is 15 and if you prepay it's drops only to 14 for 10 classes, most places the 10 class prices is usually closer to 12 or 13.  I think more people would attend Avalon if the pricing was more competitive.

    Katrin Kuttner the yoga instructor I giver her 5+++ Stars. I can't tell you how much I love her class.  It's become a ritual for me not to miss her 7:15 Tuesday class.  She is not just an amazing instructor, but she is also someone who really knows about body mechanics and making sure that the alignment is correct.

  • Review from Mishti D.

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    • 0 friends
    • 48 reviews

    Sunnyvale, CA

    3.0 star rating
    8/28/2011

    I followed Annika (http://www.annikawilli...) to Avalon. I woke up early in the morning on Sundays to attend her 8 am class. If it weren't for her, I wouldn't have. My other yoga classes are at Planet Granite, Sunnyvale, a yoga studio + gym + rock climbing walls that I simply adore.

    Avalon studio holds about 20 people comfortably. It is orchid decorated sort of atmosphere. If you buy class packages, each class would be ~$15 which is twice the cost of Planet Granite but that was a price I was willing to pay to have access to my teacher.

    Pros: No windows but the air conditioning is good for the room size. It is clean on Sunday mornings. Music system works. The location is quiet. Lots of yoga aids - blankets, belts, body pillows, blocks, knee pads. Face towel service. After the class, there is a lovely farmer's market at the doorstep.

    Cons: I don't like the wall art in the yoga room. It stops me from going to the wall for some of the exercises. The toilets are clean but sort of oddly located that forces you to walk in without sandals and bring all that back to the yoga floor.

    My real issue is with the management. This is the second time they took away Annika's class and replaced those with someone else without any prior warning. The first time I could adjust to her other class but not this time. In yoga, there is a very strong bond with one's teacher.  So there is no replacing willy-nilly.

  • Review from Chloe M.

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    • 22 friends
    • 24 reviews

    Palo Alto, CA

    5.0 star rating
    5/4/2007

    Avalon is so relaxing.

    Even the name is relaxing. Just say it. Ah-vah-lohnn. Exhale. Inhale. Exhale.

    I swear, if the world's leaders got together for some yoga, all the world's problems would be solved.

  • Review from Brandon M.

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    • 295 friends
    • 353 reviews

    San Francisco, CA

    3.0 star rating
    10/2/2006

    Just had my first yoga at Avalon. Chrissy the instructor is good at teaching us beginners. It is a laid back atmosphere kind of place. I'm not use to the chanting yet and having to take off your shoe and going to the back room after passing the studio to get to the changing room. But, I'll evolve. I already notice a big improvement on my back and flexibility so I think I'm getting the hang of yoga.
    It cost $16 and your second visit is free, so I'll probably be back. There is this Gourmet Burger place everyone is talking about and it stares me in the eye when I  finish yoga and it had sports on the many tv screens. This is going to be tough trying to mellow my competitive nature. The street Avalon is on is a mellow street with lots of restaurants. Nice location.

    Listed in: Yoga

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  • Review from Courtney R.

    Santa Clara, CA

    5.0 star rating
    6/7/2010 49 Check-ins Here

    I like Avalon very much, I have been practicing here since I first moved to the bay.  The studio has wonderful and experienced teachers as well as a great teacher training program for those who want to teach and those who want to enhance their personal practice.

    Shastri is a brilliant teacher and I take his classes both Monday and Friday nights.  His Monday night class is somewhat ashtanga based and great if your looking for a physical practice.  The Friday night class is advanced but also very technical (he breaks down the poses).  I highly recommend both classes, if you are looking for an "active" class.

    Kelly is also an amazing teacher, I have taken her class on Sat and she provides a great balance with practice and meditation.  She is wonderful teacher with a tremendous amount of knowledge.

    Louis teaches both Monday and Sunday nights and is an amazing teacher.  He teaches a foundation class on Monday night which I recommend for those beginning yoga or those who want to fine tune their practice.  Louis provides excellent instruction and great adjustments to all his students.

    I recommend Avalon to any person who wants to try yoga or already has a practice, they have a diverse schedule with classes for just about everybody.  The space is nice and they even have a small retail shop in the front in case you forget something :)

  • Review from Joyce H.

    Palo Alto, CA

    5.0 star rating
    6/6/2010 1 photo 37 Check-ins Here

    I've been doing Ashtanga yoga since 2001 and as my practice advanced it became really hard for me to find classes that I found challenging, fun and safe.

    I felt very lucky to have heard to Avalon from a friend. There are two instructors there that I find well educated, brilliantly trained and compassionate are Shastri and Louis Jackson.

    Shastri has been doing yoga since he was 12 years old, is originally from India and not only has an amazing practice but is also contains the heart and compassion of a true guru.

    The Monday 7:15 pm class is Ashtanga Based and begins with many of the standing "Primary Series" asanas. The other half of the class are advanced poses that most people are never exposed to. I find it challenging but the class is noncompetitive and has a family feel. Many of the yogis in the class are teachers and help each other with the difficult poses.

    The Friday 6:30 p.m. class is really challenging. The poses are advanced and will be a good challenge for even the most advanced yogis.

    Shastri is an amazing soul and will help open up your body and your heart. His teaching style is exact but his words are full of love and it has me coming back to class each week. Also his lectures have really opened up my eyes and heart.

    Louis Jackson is also an amazing teacher at Avalon. He has the Sunday 7 p.m., Monday 5:30 p.m. class as well as the Friday 7 a.m. class. He has an amazing practice, soft and loving voice, and expertise to walk you through any difficult pose. He gives wonderful adjustments and has a smile to bright up a room.

  • Review from lynette l.

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    • 38 friends
    • 50 reviews

    Chicago, IL

    3.0 star rating
    7/31/2007

    I like this studio because it is nice and quiet.  It is also really close to where I live.
    I went for three classes so far, and I can feel my body changing to be stronger now. I enjoy the atmosphere of the place, but find the chanting portion a little creepy.

  • Review from Guy T.

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    • 4 friends
    • 29 reviews

    Berkeley, CA

    5.0 star rating
    1/8/2008

    This place is restful the minute you step in.  The instructors are really professional, and not pretentious.  Just ask what would work best for you and they'll tell you (actually they'll suggest it gently).
    The studio itself, the wood floor, the central window as point of light, the art exhibit, all contribute to a positive yoga experience.  Don't settle for gym-like environments!

  • Review from Nancy L.

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    • 2 friends
    • 10 reviews

    Castro Valley, CA

    5.0 star rating
    7/31/2010

    Just returned from a trip to Palo Alto with my friend Sandy. We attended Kelly McGonigal's yoga class at 4:30. Avalon is a beautiful studio, and the person who met us at the front desk was very welcoming and helpful.
    The class itself was exquisitely balanced among meditation, pranayama  asana and FUN - challenging, but accessible to all - plus we got to do a little yoga dance in honor of National Dance Week. I have been an admirer of Kelly's work since attending a workshop sponsored by Yoga Bear at the Ralph K. Davies Medical Center where she was a presenter. I've read and recommended her book, Yoga for Pain Relief, and her teaching reveals the same ease and elegance - the kind of simplicity only possible when there is great depth. This is a class and studio worth traveling to.

  • Review from Rachel W.

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    • 23 friends
    • 135 reviews

    Mountain View, CA

    5.0 star rating
    11/26/2010

    Annika is a great instructor. Her style is sort of a combination of flowing anusara and vinyasa (medium-level rigor) spiced with a bit of ashtanga flavor. What I like best about her is her absolutely CLEAR and eloquent instructions, and her big focus on alignments, without sacrificing the fun of the vigorous "workout" aspect of vinyasa flow.. Her class is a truly multi-level class. I think everyone, from the more beginning students to advanced yogis, can benefit from her well-paced sequence of poses. Definitely not as crazy and acrobatic as Shastri's classes, but what makes her wonderful is that she DOES go around and help correcting your poses! (Shastri rarely does that) And she is really nice and sweet, which makes her great. I also like the chant of "shanti" at the end.

    Shastri is great too if you're ready for it. I am not ready for his Friday class yet - wayyy to advanced. I go to his Monday class sometimes - sometimes it feels really amazing and wonderful but other times it feels like you're about to die. His classes at Yoga of Los Altos is more manageable for me. What I don't like about his classes: His instructions are not the clearest, to say the least. When I took his class the first time, I didn't understand him half the time, probably due to his Indian accent, and most probably due to the fact that he doesn't elaborate and explain much. As one of the most advanced yogis in south bay/peninsula, he is so well-respected that he's reached a cult status and has many loyal followers. In fact many Avalon teachers are trained by him and worship him. As a result, many of the students in his Monday & Friday classes know his styles well and could follow with no problems. Well, I could, sort of, too, after a few more lessons, but I remember that when I was there the first time, I was utterly confused many times and it didn't help that Shastri almost never goes around helping anyone correcting any poses at all.

    But once again, I have to say that if you're ready for the advanced level classes, he is great. His astanga/vinyasa sequence is one of the best I've had, and the rigor will ready you for anything on earth. It works your whole body and mind and you feel so agile afterwards, all ready to float/fly. Full lotus pose becomes SO easy after all the vigorous flows and crazy asanas, and your mind could REALLY settle into a full meditative mode. It's amazing. If you're up to it.

    My favorite is Jochen's power yoga on Saturday and some weekday mornings. Again, like Shastri, he just talks, and rarely corrects or helps anyone with poses, which kinda sucks (he is Shastri's student). But his vinyasa sequence is SO GOOD and it really works your core, your limp muscles, basically your whole body and mind. And unlike Shastri, his instructions are super clear (British accent, plus a great sense of humor). The class is challenging and no-nonsense; and the flow and pace of the class is nearly perfect, building strength, endurance, and flexibility. I don't like the music he plays though.

    Avalon is a beautiful studio, with beautiful paintings on the walls (which might become a problem for poses such as handstand that require a wall though). Easy parking. Changing rooms. Nice front desk. Good schedule. For beginners, Louis' Monday 5:30pm class is slow but good (he teaches another class on Sunday night which is vigorous; he's another one of Shastri's students). Janya is too slow for me. I wish Tony can be clearer. Britta's vinyasa class is very soothing and wonderful. Overall, my recommendation is that if you're new to the studio, take classes from different instructors, and ask the front desk questions, try it out and you'll figure out what works for you and what doesn't.

  • Review from Gargi M.

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    • 45 friends
    • 33 reviews

    Palo Alto, CA

    5.0 star rating
    3/14/2009

    NET-NET: Everyone's neighborhood yoga studio...seriously. And well-located in terms of providing sinful pleasures like The Counter (burgers) and Palo Alto Baking Company for after-class wind-down. ;-)

    There are SO many regulars here and definitely a feeling of camraderie. Each teacher is so gifted in their own way.

    DETAILS:
    My latest crush is on Annika, who is so generous with her time and knowledge and is THE reason that after several years of just watching Shastri (yoga guru not from this world!..also teaches here) do his crazy arm balance poses...she coached me through it and as of a month ago, I can now do at least 2 of them! She is incredibly strong yet playful in her practice and challenges us each and every time. Her practice is labeled as Vinyasa (characterized by the many flowing downard-facing-dog/chaturanga dandasa into standing poses) BUT she definitely practices Anusara (heavy on proper body alignment and mechanics)

    Other favorites ....

    Shastri: Cult-like following for his intense ashtanga practice (build up a sweat) followed by crazy balance, strength and flexibility poses. Watching his legs go his side, parallel to the floor, while he balances on his palms...is truly humbling.

    John Berg: Used to teach weekday morning...very kind and knowledgeable (he teaches seminars too) but I haven't been able to catch him for a few years.

    Laurie: Wonderful weekday morning routine..great way to get just enough of a sweat and stretch to ease into the day.

    so many more...I hope to reconnect more with my practice this year and make more friends there.

  • Review from Husky D.

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    • 3 friends
    • 88 reviews

    Fort Collins, CO

    5.0 star rating
    12/21/2009

    Every time I'm in Silicon Valley, I try to attend.  A jew of a studio and found it by accident walking my old hangouts on California Ave.  Many different yoga styles to choose from.  

    Came across one of the best Anusara yoga teachers there (Nina Collart).  A lot of the yoga teachers also teach at other studios (such as Los Altos Yoga).

    Just a cool place to go and decompress and then hit the food joints close by!

  • Review from Allison D.

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    • 36 friends
    • 99 reviews

    Mountain View, CA

    5.0 star rating
    12/2/2008

    Avalon Yoga is one of the most beautiful spaces for a yoga studio.  I've been to quite a few studios and this gave me an immediate sense of warmth and calm as soon as I walked in.  The shop up front has a great selection of clothes and accessories.  The stuio itself has great lighting and art on the walls.  I can't get over the tiles on the floor in the bathroom.  I want to take a picture of it so I can one day have my bathroom floor tiled like that.

    I've only attended the Sunday morning hatha class with Jackie and the Sunday evening gentle class.  Jackie's class is great!  She brings a theme to each class and all of the poses are somehow connected to that theme.  I've left every class feeling better physically and mentally as well.  They have a good variety of classes and some interesting workshops scheduled as well.

  • Review from Jennell L.

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    • 1 friend
    • 37 reviews

    San Juan, PR

    5.0 star rating
    8/7/2007

    Avalon has the best boutique of any yoga studio I have ever been in.  Stopped by tonight for class and ended up buying some pants (not for yoga), a bracelet, and an eye pillow gift.  They really have an amazing selection of merchandise.

    They also have excellent teachers who teach many different styles.  They offer Anusara, Ashtanga, fast passed vinyasa classes, some Iyengar, and restorative.  They also offer a Tai Chi and Qigong class.

    They have an awesome teacher training program that is offered twice a year.

  • Review from Elizabeth F.

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    • 25 friends
    • 36 reviews

    San Francisco, CA

    5.0 star rating
    9/28/2007

    One name...Shastri.

    He's the best yoga instructor of Ashtanga, Dynamic Hatha in the south bay.   I practiced with him for several years and I love his unique style, rigorous cardio training, and most of all his energy.  You will find other yoga instructors in his class on Mon and Fri nights.

  • Review from Carol G.

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    • 0 friends
    • 76 reviews

    Palo Alto, CA

    5.0 star rating
    9/2/2009

    I have been going there for 5 years now. The studio is tranquil and attractive. Everyone there is very friendly. I have been a participant in Jackie's Restorative class both here and prior to that. She is the absolute best! But, she is now out on maternity leave. She says that she left us in good hands with Janya. Otherwise, Bonnie teaches a great Restorative class as well. I can't speak for the other instructors, but would be willing to bet that they are all first-rate in their respective styles of teaching.

    The studio also stocks a great selection of clothing, props, music, DVD's, etc.

  • Review from Lynda A.

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    • 0 friends
    • 3 reviews

    Palo Alto, CA

    4.0 star rating
    8/22/2011

    Avalon is a beautiful studio.  Thrilled with Anusara,  which has basically transformed my life.  After a serious injury, I started attending Katrin, Chrissy, Patricia and Anneka's classes which have all been tremendously helpful,supportive, a fantastic workout, but with correct alignment.  These woman are amazing teachers!

  • Review from Samantha R.

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    • 35 friends
    • 130 reviews

    Menlo Park, CA

    5.0 star rating
    4/30/2010

    Come here for two instructors:  Shastri and Louis.  Both these sincere, intelligent instructors have changed my practice.  Very friendly yogi crowd and a great community on my fave street in Palo Alto.

  • Review from Lisa M.

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    • 4 friends
    • 73 reviews

    San Francisco, CA

    5.0 star rating
    5/10/2010

    This is a nice, clean yoga studio and the neighborhood is easy to find parking as well.  I'm really enjoying Chrissy Graham's class these days.  She's an excellent teacher with the best of intentions and so much knowledge as well.

  • Review from Jim P.

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    • 6 friends
    • 20 reviews

    Sunnyvale, CA

    4.0 star rating
    9/13/2006

    Very nice larger than average size studio with hardwood floors and mirrors on one side.  Great selection of  yoga clothes and accessories.  Good instructors.  Though I've not taken from many there recently, my favorites are Shastri and Samantha for advanced vinyasa flows.  Good idea to check their workshop schedule since they have some big names from time to time.  Several great places to eat nearby also.

  • Review from avenelle a.

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    • 7 friends
    • 51 reviews

    San Francisco, CA

    4.0 star rating
    8/6/2008

    I really want to give it 5 stars but not just yet........

    Overall, this is a wonderful yoga studio.  Because of the glowing reviews posted on yelp, I started going to Avalon about two months ago.  I've really enjoyed Samantha's class and Krassi's class.  I loved both of their practices even though their teaching styles are quite different.  My only complaint about Avalon has been the change in teachers/subs which occurs quite frequently.  I know this can happens anywhere but recently it totally ruined my experience.  Most of the teachers and classes are very serene, inspiring and supportive.  So, I've come to expect an instructor that understands the balance between creating a supportive structure and allowing students to follow their own mind, body and spirit.  I've had two different teachers (one, a sub and the other, a teacher returning from a trip abroad) that just wouldn't shut up.  OMG! Please stop talking about YOURself, YOUR travels, YOUR yoga teachers and YOUR state of mind while I am in triangle pose.  OK....I am ranting but yoga is MY time to escape and reflect..on ME!  Yep, I said it.  Yoga gives ME a chance to set an intention about MY life and MY practice.  Please learn when to turn it off.........whewww! I've been holding that in for a while....... Namaste.

  • Review from Annika K.

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    • 24 friends
    • 38 reviews

    Los Altos, CA

    5.0 star rating
    1/2/2008

    Wonderful atmosphere! Great instructors and staff. Best traditional yoga studio in the bay

  • Review from Debbie W.

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    • 0 friends
    • 108 reviews

    San Francisco, CA

    5.0 star rating
    11/26/2008

    This is the nicest yoga studio I've been to, and I've tried quite a few.  Good variety of classes from beginner to advanced, lots of styles, too.  I miss the Ashtanga classes, but I guess they weren't popular enough to sustain.  Still some excellent instructors like John, Rebecca, Chrissy, Kelly.  The art changes regularly and the atmosphere is beautiful, from the walls to the bathrooms.  I like the vibe, not too competitive, but generally challenging enough if you pick the right class.

  • Review from Darlyn S.

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    • 0 friends
    • 4 reviews

    Palo Alto, CA

    5.0 star rating
    1/14/2011

    This may be a strange review, but I truly believe that it says something about the character of the owner and studio.  I  bought a $150 gift certificate for my daughter thinking that it was part of the massage shop next door.  I came back the following week with only the card in hand, no receipt.  As it turned out, the card would not go through.  I paid cash, so i couldn't even show it on a bank statement. I had nothing but my word to say that I had purchased the certificate. They honestly tried everything.  I gave them my address before I left, but naturally, I thought that I would simply have to kiss the money goodbye.  A week later a check for $150 came in the mail.  They helped to restore my faith in people.

  • Review from Mike L.

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    • 7 friends
    • 19 reviews

    CA

    4.0 star rating
    2/22/2007

    Nice environment...pleasant and warm with full length mirrors (which help me a lot).  It's been a nice find.

  • Review from Rachel s.

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    • 64 friends
    • 309 reviews

    San Francisco, CA

    4.0 star rating
    2/27/2008

    This place would get 5 stars if only Samantha Matthews was there more than once per week. I like the studio space-- intimate, wood floors, sense of sacredness. Sam is a fab instructor-- knows when to push and when to ease back. I'd go weekly if work allowed me but i settle for when I can. Don't miss her Tues at 7:15 if you have the chance. Its vibrant.

  • Review from D C.

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    • 0 friends
    • 16 reviews

    Washington, DC

    4.0 star rating
    5/16/2010

    A marvelous yoga studio. Oustanding instructors. One quibble: some noise (of vaccuming and music) coming from upstairs--- but that's probably another tenant and not their fault. And it is a quibble. The classroom and instructors are the greatest. I'd give it 5 stars except that on the New Year's Day class they crowded way too many people in. It really was uncomfortable. I think they should have set a more realistic limit on the number of students that day. P.S. Excellent little shop in the lobby. This is the place to find your yoga books.

  • Review from Tyler H.

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    • 4 friends
    • 35 reviews

    Palo Alto, CA

    5.0 star rating
    8/15/2006

    Great California Avenue studio offering all types and all levels.  Mellow, bohemian vibe.  Great instructors.

  • Review from Tanya S.

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    • 4 friends
    • 14 reviews

    Palo Alto, CA

    4.0 star rating
    5/19/2009

    Very nice staff and good instruction.  You can rent a mat if you don't have one with you.  Clean room for yoga practice.

  • Review from ami B.

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    • 2 friends
    • 31 reviews

    Portland, OR

    5.0 star rating
    12/4/2007

    This place is lovely. I took my first yoga classes here. The boutique is lovely, great books and clothes. The space is beautiful and welcoming.

  • Review from Jonas J.

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    • 2 friends
    • 13 reviews

    San Francisco, CA

    5.0 star rating
    7/21/2009

    A solid yoga studio. An authentic, friendly culture, beautiful studio, and good array of classes with some impressive teachers who can satisfy all levels.  It doesn't quite have the incredible energy of studios like Yoga Tree in SF - but that's a Palo Alto problem, not an Avalon Yoga problem.

  • Review from Julia L.

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    • 61 friends
    • 332 reviews

    Berkeley, CA

    4.0 star rating
    3/5/2010

    I did my 200-hour teacher training here and coming back to practice makes me feel nostalgic for that period of time! I really recommend the teacher training program here at Avalon. I think I gained so much during the ~3 month of more in-depth training and study about yoga. It's been a year since I did the training and looking back I really feel like I've grown in my practice since then. I like Shastri's classes here, and attend the Monday night Ashtanga-like class when I can (the Friday night one is way too difficult for me, but it is cool to watch all those acrobatic poses!). I also recommend Kelly McGonigal's classes here - I really respect her ability to combine science and yoga! The only reason I took one star off is because of the comparatively higher cost of attending classes at this studio versus others in the area, which perhaps is due to the location of Avalon on California St. in Palo Alto.

  • Review from sharif r.

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    • 0 friends
    • 3 reviews

    Palo Alto, CA

    5.0 star rating
    6/27/2010

    Avalon is a lovely studio.. The owner, Paul and staff have great energy and the classes are always thurough. Shastri on fridays is the real deal as well as Britta.

  • Review from H P.

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    • 12 friends
    • 8 reviews

    El Granada, CA

    5.0 star rating
    3/26/2009

    This is hands down the best yoga studio in Palo Alto!  Great combination of challenging poses with meditation.  Great atmosphere- quiet, dark and calming.  The instructors I have had are very knowledgeable and patient.  Highly recommend them.  Also has a class for children!

  • Review from Ros S.

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    • 0 friends
    • 68 reviews

    San Francisco, CA

    4.0 star rating
    4/29/2009

    Avalon is a nice studio.  I wish they put the mirrors up, it seems so much smaller without the mirrors:) I like Shastri's Monday and Friday class.  Wow, the Friday class is by far the most "technical" yoga class I've been to yet.  You'll be able to do a human pretzel in no time:)  I also like Krassi D., John B., Kelly M., Rebecca B., Chrissy G. and Annika W.  I haven't tried the other teachers there but I'm sure they're very good too.

  • Review from Sarah W.

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    • 1 friend
    • 9 reviews

    Palo Alto, CA

    5.0 star rating
    1/30/2011

    There is something special about the atmosphere at Avalon Yoga Studio.  It is a beautiful yoga studio on California Ave in Palo Alto and it attracts some great yoga teachers.  I've taken a couple of teachers at Avalon, but my favorite teacher is Katrin Kuttner.  Her Anusara-inspired teaching is wonderful and really makes sense to your body and her classes speak to the physical, spiritual and philosophical aspects of yoga and life.  She always has wonderful insight to share with her students and her joy and enthusiasm for yoga and life radiates from her.  I always learn something new in Katrin's classes and continuously feel inspired and uplifted by being in her presence.  Recently she had 'Girish' singing and playing during one of her Tuesday night classes and it was truly magical.  I highly recommend visiting Avalon Art and Yoga Center to take one of Katrin's classes or one of the other great teachers there.

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