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Laughing Lotus Yoga Center
Category: Active Life Fitness & Instruction Yoga Yoga [Edit]
3271 16th St(between Guerrero St & Dolores St)
San Francisco, CA 94103
Neighborhood: Mission
(415) 355-1600
Announcement
Fall Yoga School 2011
200-Hour Teacher Training Program w/Jasmine & Keith
September 9 - December 18
Apply online at http://www.laughinglot...
- Good for Kids:
- No
79 reviews for Laughing Lotus Yoga Center
79 reviews in English
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Review from Falguni K.
San Francisco, CA
9/1/2011
Lets see. Where do I begin? Do I talk about the amazing teachers first or do I talk about the sequencing? or even better yet. Why don't I just start with me.
I am 3 times certified Yoga teacher. Ya, apparently one time was not enough for me...:p I tried many different yoga studios in the city and then I laid my eyes on Laughing Lotus. There is a sense of completion at this studio. It covers everything, from chanting (Bhakti Yog) to Meditation (Gyan Yog) to asanas and pranayama. There is also a monthly Seva (Raj Yog) for people interested in giving their time and energy, selflessly to the society. And every month Laughing Lotus focuses on a new theme: ex: month of August, focus was on Mudras.
Teachers are amazing. They are not pushy. They allow you to come into your pose when you are ready for it. And for those who prefer a challenging class, don't worry they have a dosage of that as well, in level 2-3. This studio holds space for all.
Here you will find, Truth, Love and Compassion....Its a temple. Its a place where you go inwards and by the time you walk out, you feel brand new.
Try it.... -
Review from Evan A.
San Francisco, CA
8/20/2011
Loved the Friday "Midnight Yoga" with Katharine Otis and beautiful live music.
Warm, relaxing studio, great staff, tea and ginger cookies following the class. Awesome. -
Review from C B.
Alameda, CA
1/22/2012
i love this place. it's like going to church (but better) on sunday mornings. the energy in this place is contagious.
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Review from Enrique V.
San Francisco, CA
6/9/2011
LOVE LOVE LOVE this place!!!
There is not a more kind and inviting yoga studio in SF. Maybe anywhere. Seriously. Not one ounce of pretense. In my opinion, they don't just talk about the beautiful teachings of yoga, they actually *live* them, without taking themselves too seriously.
Teachers are warm, humorous, and really knowledgeable.
They put together fun, creative, and challenging sequences. Chanting, yoga philosophy, poetry, and awesome music come with the package too. I've never had a more complete yoga experience anywhere. -
Review from Christian J.
San Francisco, CA
3/3/2011
Went for some exercise, left with balance of both body and mind.
The instructors are truly amazing people and very knowledgeable in their practice. The atmosphere is bright and welcoming. This studio really works to nurture a positive community.
Much love Laughing Lotus. -
Review from Kameron H.
10/2/2011
Just went for my first class; visiting from Winnipeg, MB, Canada. Amazing energy and great guidance. Wonderful studio so far and I look forward to the upcoming intro week!
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Review from Héctor S.
San Francisco, CA
2/17/2011
I came to San Francisco almost 14 months ago, landed on Dolores St. and discovered Laughing Lotus during one of my first outings. I was certainly not a yogi but had been to a few classes back east before, and felt compelled, pulled really, to walk in take a look. A very kind soul showed me around and I felt strangely welcomed and eager, and I decided to drop by for a class later that week. And that's it, after the first class I was hooked.
The teachers here are very very knowledgeable and kind. The energy is soothing and the workout is challenging. The emphasis on being here in our bodies now, on kindness and community, and on extending yoga insights into the rest of our lives speaks to me deeply. I found my yoga home. -
Review from Christina H.
San Francisco, CA
1/5/2011
My roommate and I checked out the Laughing Lotus studio for the first time last night. The location is perfect for us (easy walking distance) and the introductory student offer of one week unlimited for $20 has inspired me to create a 7 days of Yoga challenge to regroup after the 12 days of Christmas!
The studio has a soothing atmosphere, the schedule of class offerings is extensive, the staff are extraordinarily helpful and the teacher (Steven) was joyous and playful while guiding us through an invigorating flow practice.
I will definitely go back to this studio and would recommend it to any Mission based yogis. -
Review from Megha S.
San Francisco, CA
5/29/2011
I can't believe that I used to lived a block away from this studio and never frequented it! As I had a 2 hour break between seeing patients on Friday, I decided to try out the community class for the very first time. The receptionist was friendly and helpful, and the class was amazing and hit the clearing spot. It included chanting/singing with the harmonium, loving-kindness meditation, and a challenging but just right vinyasa sequence that allowed me to end my school year on a nice note.
Check it out if you are in/live around the hood. The instructors are great, articulate, empathic, and knowledgeable, and it's a little more affordable than the other studios in the hood. It's a very quaint and quiet studio, which is great for all experienced yogi(ni)s who like a little more space/not so crowded classes. Thanks for the intro - you know who you are. :) -
Review from Katherine M.
San Francisco, CA
1/9/2011
I really enjoy Laughing Lotus. The instructors are consistently great with the occasionally amazing instruction. They are wonderful athletes in their own regard and are incredibly eager to help all students achieve what they can/want to during a particular session. They seem particularly able to provide a class that is rigorous for more advanced students while easing newer people into more challenging poses. Plus they really seem to read their audience and adjust to meet the needs of the class at that moment.
The atmosphere is relaxed rather than austere, and I have felt very much at home even when first attending. Front desk is welcoming, interior is fun/funky without trying too hard, midnight yoga is a really wonderful thing to do on a Friday to seal your week and start the weekend. -
Review from becca j.
San Francisco, CA
5/16/2011
Laughing Lotus helps me keep my pranas in check. As my new yoga home, here's the reasoning behind my 5 star love:
- Offers a variety of class hours including three 7 AM classes during the week and Friday night midnight yoga
- Awesome instructors (favorite class: Jasmine, 11 AM Saturday)
- Delicious tea and cookies in the waiting area
- Psychedelic, fruit-loopy colored walls -
Review from Jaina D.
10/31/2010
At last I've found a yoga school that pleases me on every level.
I'm not interested in jock yoga, ego yoga, hot yoga, or rock star yoga. I want peace of mind and a friendly community. I crave sensual delights like brilliant colors and delicious flavors. I want poetry and wisdom and humble gratitude.
The colorful environment alone lifts my spirits, but the yogi tea and animal cookies never fail to bring on bliss. I adore my teacher, Atosa, who reads poetry to us and has a gentle humor that melts all anxiety. She has the most superb taste in music, too. I never thought I'd enjoy a yoga class that played music, however her choices bring an emotional connection to the flow of postures. I love the chanting, the mudras, the altars, the murals of Indian deities-- the full-spectrum offered here.
As for the style of yoga, the Level 1 classes are just my pace. I've spent a couple of years practicing slow, careful Iyengar, which helped me understand the basics. And I've spent years in fast-paced Ashtanga classes that sculpted my butt, yet left me spiritually starved. There's an even flow that feels like a dance in this class. I wouldn't recommend it for those totally new to yoga--there's a beginners series they offer for that.
I went to a kirtan for the first time a couple of weeks ago, and it was a thrilling experience. In fact, I wasn't quite ready for the full effect, so I snuck out. As they say here at the Lotus, "Honor your level."
Namaste. -
Review from Val M.
San Francisco, CA
11/10/2010
Laughing Lotus is my home away from home. From the moment I walked into the beautiful space over a year ago I have felt welcomed in with open arms and can't imagine any other yoga studio to be my home base for yoga practice!
The feeling of community that the Lotus exudes is very apparent and embracing. The teachers at Lotus not only focus on Asana, but also on the other very important limbs of yoga to make it not only a physical practice but spiritual, emotional and personal.
So much love and many thanks to the Lotus crew and all the greatness they bring to so many! -
Review from San D.
San Diego, CA
9/16/2011
It was just A-OK. It really was not for me, but I appreciate their efforts. I've been trying to find an inexpensive studio in the city, and this was one of them, and for the price they did a great job.
Pros:
-Inexpensive (comparatively) price
-Nice Staff
-Long Classes
-Huge space
Cons:
-Need ventilation, floors felt sticky
-Too hippied out,
-Chanting & Singing
-Teachers preach too much
If you like to be lead through the whole thought process, and have more meditation along with the physical practice, then this is for you.
I personally like a clean, open space, where I can make the practice my own. I like to be physically challenged more as well. -
Review from Chris B.
San Francisco, CA
11/28/2010
This is one of my favorite yoga studios in the city. The location is great for me as is the ambiance of the studio itself. The place is warm and inviting w/o pretense. The community is also welcoming and it is great to see so many repeats. The place seems to pet my heart in some strange way...
I have had quite a few different instructors here. Many I really like and there are a few who I am not really into. My only issue is when there seems to be an instructor who is more interested in doing a certain quantity of poses and focuses on that versus the quality of the poses.
Other than that minor annoyance I really love this place. -
Review from Jeremi M.
San Francisco, CA
10/8/2010
Stellar. Cosmic. Delicious. I positively love this place.. and I'm a dude! First off the space is really amazing, simultaneously spacious and cozy. The teachers are really out of this world blending really good stuff to say or little quotes into an often challenging sequence of asanas (and I've been practicing for 5 years!). I've also noticed that all the teachers bring a little different flavor to their teaching, so definitely check a few different ones out. My favorite part about the place is people are really friendly.. I don't get the competitive vibe that I do at other studios, and people seem pretty interested in saying whatsup before or after classes, sometimes over a glass of tea (even the teachers.. whaaaa?!).
I can't get enough. But see for yourself. -
Review from Brady K.
San Francisco, CA
5/21/2010
This ain't a joke, it's time for my "hilarious" 7th installment of 34 classes in Passport to Prana. Just like my other P2P reviews I'll keep to the following criteria. http://bit.ly/cekzuV
Location:
Laughing Lotus is located in the Mission where you can find some of the best Yoga and burritos in town. Parking here generally blows. Fortunately it's right by the 22 bus line, and close to MUNI and Market street.
Facilities:
Laughing Lotus is big and well designed. The foyer is roomy and has plenty of space to sit, cubbies for your shoes and a nice check in area. I loved the complimentary chai tea and little animal cracker cookies by the seating area. Continuing towards the studio is a hallway featuring two immaculate bathrooms and four changing spaces. The studio is long and big, with two windows offering some natural light. The front wall of the studio has cubbies for belongings and bins of mats, straps and other yoga accoutrements. The far wall of the studio has a small shrine with a cool wall of flowers behind the buddha. Vibrant swirls of color decorate the walls throughout the building.
Instructors and staff:
Check in was easy-peasy and the folks behind the desk were very friendly. Our teacher was funky, welcoming and friendly. She made a point to meet me as a new student which was great. She offered a nice Hatha practice but occasionally seemed a little distracted. Overall it was a great class and workout leaving me feeling loosey goosey and tuckered out.
New age:
Our teacher sang some nice chants and played the harmonium, a cool drone accordion-type of instrument. Laughing Lotus seems like a place to explore the spiritual aspects of Yoga more than other places I've been to so far. Incense was burned during practice which I found distracting.Listed in: Yoga! Passport to Prana
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Review from Linda L.
San Francisco, CA
2/12/2011
When you walk in to Laughing Lotus, you feel instantly welcome. The space is warm, beautifully decorated, and the staff are nice. In fact, this is the best designed space I've been to in the city for yoga, the waiting area is spacious enough that you aren't stepping over anyone or being stepped over by anyone and the changing rooms and bathrooms are easily accessible. Seriously, this avoids a lot of the annoyance that can be involved in going to a class.
I bought the new student pass and was hoping to try a lot more of the classes, but alas I got sick. I did go to 4 or 5 though and I thought the teachers were relatively good. The teaching was inspirational and accessible and it seems that the studio makes an effort to create cohesion so that even with different teachers and different styles, you get the sense that it all fits together.
I am still studio shopping, but I think this is a contender. -
Review from Julia G.
4/28/2010
Yoga has always scared me because I'm incredibly inflexible and have horrible balance. I went a couple of times in the distant past and ended up feeling anxious and uncomfortable instead of relaxed.
I'm not sure what was different this time that allowed me to enjoy it so much but after the level 1 class on Tuesday I felt amazingly calm and de-stressed.
The studio is spacious and beautiful. The teacher was welcoming and knowledgeable. The class itself, as a drop in, was only $11.
I've said this a lot in the past with little to no ambition behind it but this time I actually mean it: I'm definitely going to try to do this more regularly. -
Review from Eka J.
San Francisco, CA
10/30/2010
A yoga home with its own unique vibe. I really enjoy the lotus flow. It's free-flowing, dynamic and challenging. I really get into it quickly and easily, finding myself flowing from asana to asana.
Mainly I have gone to Jasmine's classes, and I keep coming back. Their sounds tracks are also rocking.
Namaste. -
Review from Christine L.
Austin, TX
10/23/2010
I spent a magical summer living a few blocks away from Laughing Lotus and made a point of stopping here to sweat and stretch a few times a week. The staff and instructors were always friendly, kind, and helpful, and I felt at home here very quickly.
The yoga classes here flow like poetry, making other classes I'd taken seem like staid compositions in comparison. Even though I have been practicing yoga for years, I felt like I learned something new out of each and every class, be it a different way of getting into a posture, an adjustment, a mantra, or an amusing anecdote.
The classes feel very whole, balancing asana with mantra, philosophy, karmic service, and other aspects of yoga. I miss the studio very much and can't wait to be back in the city so I can take another class. -
Review from Tiffany T.
Kirkland, WA
11/29/2007 ROTD 4/18/2008
The only reason why I would ever step foot in the Mission district is for Laughing Lotus. If you don't know already, this charmingly upscale yoga studio is located near the heart of the Mission, so the area and surrounding businesses are pleasant and coming here on the weekends is fairly safe.
In addition to providing awesome services (yoga and astrology readings) by super talented and experienced staff - they offer eco-friendly SIGG bottles (not the Hello Kitty version unfortunately) and organic thermals, t-shirts, and tank tops.
I am a total homebody and rarely like to venture out unless I'm going to a restaurant, but Laughing Lotus makes me feel as if I'm at home. -
Review from Kelly H.
San Francisco, CA
8/19/2008
Things I used to think about Yoga:
Weird chanting
A place for pretentious flexible people and gay men
Madonna's bionic body
The occasional loud fart
A fabulous opportunity to wear Lululemon
Things I look forward to since going to Laughing Lotus Yoga Center:
Hot tea
Yummy cookies
Non-snobby people who are just as curious as I am about what Yoga is and how to make it your own
Um, doing Yoga to Radiohead and Sufjan Stevens, f-yaah!
The barely-there floral/citrusy scent of the studio every time you walk in
A different class every time, from the beginning classes to advanced
A fabulous opportunity to wear Lululemon.
I have not yet attended the Midnight Yoga from 10pm-12am on Friday nights, but there's apparently LIVE music and yoga every Friday night here! ! ! What the! This studio has totally transformed my way of thinking about Yoga and how it works differently in every person's life. -
Review from Melissa B.
Oakland, CA
1/25/2010
I took a 2 1/2 hour workshop (reasonably priced at $20!!) here on Saturday, and my clothing smelled like incense when I got home! I was sitting on my bed, my discarded sweaty Yoga shirt was on the floor, and I asked myself, why does it smell like a temple in my room? Hee Hee. Laughing Lotus.
There might not be enough laughing in their classes and a few too many skinny limber white women taking themselves a *little* too seriously here, but it's a really nice studio.
They have a great entry area, with tea, little biscuits, shelving for your shoes, a community bulletin board, and all sorts of Yoga schwag for sale- mind you, it's rather good yoga schwag. The changing rooms and bathrooms are fairly clean and convenient to change in, and I like the diluted Dr. Bronner's soap in the bathroom. It's all about the good smells here!
The studio is very cool, really awesome hand painted deities of Hinduism represented here, and warm colors emanate glow-y feelings and bliss. The equipment is all nice and clean and not too worn out; the mats are in good condition.
You can bring your stuff in here into the studio and store it in a cubby during class. Just turn off your damn cell phone, K? Two sky lights let in great light and when it rains, you can hear the pitter patter of raindrops, which is magical.
The french doors on the far end of the stdio, can be burst open if you get too hot or it gets too stuffy in here, in fact I am not a you-know-who patented-his-series-of -yoga-moves gal, so I whine to the teacher and she'll let me move closer to a cracked door, also having lovely plants outside. Or they keep the curtains drawn if it gets too sunny. They do keep this room quite warm, always a bonus in Yoga. I sweat in this studio, and it feels great.
They have different styles of classes and the teachers really vary, but this studio is not for the faint of heart- 1. The classes are kind of intense, and 2. The teacher usually plays a harmonium and bust out with some crazy chanting before class.
Ommmmmmm
Uoouuoooooommmmm
Aaooooaaaammmmmmmmmmmmmhhhhhaah
Yes, they chant. I know. It kind of makes me squirm too. But it still does amazing things for getting me into my breath and Yoga, and seriously, chanting and breath retention, no matter what the culture or God I'm worshiping, have been very powerful in my experience. I mean it takes me out of my body for a bit and that's really nice for a change.
One thing that consistently bothers me about this place is classes run over by 5-15 min. I am all about being into my breath and being in the moment and stuff, but seriously, I have to go to work, I have to catch a train, I got stuff to do. It's a matter of respect and boundaries, for me, so please, L.L.Y. teachers, keep your mind on others' commitments outside of class : ) -
Review from kristina w.
San Francisco, CA
7/30/2011
MAGICAL. A must if you are a yoga doer! LOVE.
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Review from Angie R.
San Francisco, CA
10/15/2007
Wow, finally a place I have been that 5,000 other Yelpers have not yet reviewed! (Yes, I am generally unoriginal about where I eat and drink. You love me anyway.)
I got my yoga on at Laughing Lotus this past Sunday. I took a "lotus flow" vinyasa class, and it was a really great experience. The sequencing was original and a lot of fun, with emphasis on feminine energy. The studio is beautiful with awesome sparkly paintings on the walls, and emphasis on feminine energy (are you sensing a theme here?). They give you free tea, chocolate and little cookies when you are done practicing. Also they provide free mats if you don't bring your own. And they have cubbies in the studio proper where you can conveniently store your valuables while in class. It was great not having to practice on top of my purse the whole time.
They seemed really happy that we students were there, and not like they were doing us a favor by letting us practice at their studio (Yoga Tree, I am talking to you here.). The class was full but not crowded, and I actually had room to spread my arms during sun salutations and various twists (sorry, YT, I am talking to you again homie.).
Minus a star for a couple of minor offenses. One, the studio does not allow you to keep your water with you during practice. I don't drink a lot of water while I do yoga, I know that it's very important not to extinguish my internal fire, but I also sweat gallons and occasionally a small sip of water helps keep me going. As we all took our water to the cubby the teacher made a comment about how she hoped we were all using environmentally friendly water bottles (no one was). I am all for being environmentally friendly and I think it's great that Laughing Lotus supports this, but who wants to be chastised for their Fiji bottle by the teacher when they are just there to do yoga? The sign on the wall by the drinking fountain about the evils of water bottles pretty much hit the point home, thanks. I like my yoga without a lecture, unless you want to lecture me about my alignment.
Despite this little bump in the road I highly recommend the studio. -
Review from Christy T.
Mission, San Francisco, CA
9/1/2008
I was skeptical. I'm very picky about my yoga, and I'm a little shy. So when I couldn't find a class during the time I wanted at my go-to place, I decided to give LL a shot. And I'm so glad I did. I've had classes with three different instructors now (including one community class), and all of them have been wonderful.
It's a different style than I'm used to practicing (this is pretty much all Vinyasa), but I love the different pacing and outlook. Everyone is super-friendly and unsnobby. The colors and music are also more upbeat than I'm used to. And while I hesitate to admit that I'm so susceptible to the powers of suggestion in that way, those things really make a difference. Not necessarily better, but I do have more energy and a brighter attitude (this could also be due to the more flow-based practice).
I also enjoy the "theme" of each month and the small, but accessible book selection in the front of the studio. Plus there are cookies and tea and a nice place to sit before class with cushions and music. Clearly the founders have given consideration to all of these elements when designing the space.
And I have to say, I thought it would be distracting to have more fast-paced/modern music playing while doing yoga, but it actually provides a very positive boost.
I plan to do an increasing amount of my practice here to mix things up and keep myself (mentally and physically) on my toes within my practice. Thanks, LL for being such an upbeat spot.
Edited to add: the location can't be beat, and the skylight in the practice space is lovely. -
Review from Mars H.
San Francisco, CA
9/29/2008
A true gem of heartfelt teachings, balanced flows & creative expression. Every teacher offers a unique, personal perspective. Most every class is different.
Every person is dynamic & unique in their own way. LL teachers respect that. So beautiful.
Lokha Samasta Sukhino Bhavantu!Listed in: My Neighborhood
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Review from Cindy S.
San Francisco, CA
6/17/2010
Laughing Lotus!! I looooveee this place!! I love the "feminine" colors... haha =)~ PINK!! YELLOW!! PURPLE!! AhHHhh and the studio itself... soooo warm, inviting, playful, vibrant, calming, serene,..it's just, it's just, PERFECT!
Walking into the front desk area you are ALWAAAAYS greeted by a warm and cheerful smile!
I love the little changing areas- super clean and cute.
Lotus' in the bathroom!
YuMmY tea and sometimes surprise treats after class!!
DANA is sooooo awesome.. i looove her spirit in class and outside of class. Greaattt teacher!
I love Laughing Lotus because I feel like it's a family there- during class and outside of class. Definitely a lot of kindred spirits.
If you're a yogi or want to try yoga.... LAUGHING LOTUS is a MUST to check out!! You won't be disapointed...at all!! Always happy!! -
Review from Abby V.
San Francisco, CA
Updated - 3/7/2011
Try Patrick's class too! Kirtan, poetry, and great yoga!
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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2/1/2011
Great location. Very inspirational teachers. Laura is magical. The space is so beautifully designed.… Read more »
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Review from D B.
San Francisco, CA
6/14/2011
I do really like this Yoga center especially since an acquaintance of mine leads a class or two. For me this type of yoga is more cerebral and a near spiritual experience for me every time I have gone. I look forward to more classes with Jeremy.
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Review from Madeleine V.
San Francisco, CA
7/5/2011
I have been to many yoga centers in San Francisco, and this center is by far my favorite. The yoga style is beautiful--it almost feels as though I am in a dance class at times. The studio donates to different organizations when it can, hosts fun events, and clearly shows that is cares. I could write more, but in a nutshell: this place is great!
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Review from Angella S.
San Francisco, CA
10/17/2008
Love Laughing Lotus!
What a charming studio full of graceful spirit and good vibes all around. It is cozy, clean, and most importantly, the instructors are gems.
Midnight yoga rocks! Kate is awesome and I just love the whole candlelight-live-music vibe of that class. It's a perfect way to end the week and bring new life into the weekend.Listed in: Recharging the Spiritual…
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Review from Bidalia A.
San Francisco, CA
5/4/2008
I always wanted to go in NYC but now I live in San Francisco and here they are. YEAAAA!!!!
This place is truly a gift and a joy to go. Heather is an amazing women and her class's have so much to offer your heart. I also took Katherine's class and wow again an abundance of love and peace.
Love Saves the Day go go go. -
Review from Mr. J.
San Francisco, CA
5/24/2010
I've been to many of the yoga studios in San Francisco and have found that Laughing Lotus offers some of the most challenging and well rounded classes I've experienced. I've tried classes with almost all of the yoga teachers at Lotus and found that all of them are professional and very talented at what they do. Each class is shaped to be an experience rather than a series of movements. Love that!
My favorite teacher is Ronn. His regular class is happy hour on Mondays and Wednesdays at 12:30pm, but he occasionally does some of the other classes too. He's funny and adds variety to every one of his classes. It's open to all levels and there's plenty for everyone no matter how experienced you are. He also has awesome playlists of music for every class!
Side note: when I went on vacation in Hawaii I tried yoga there with several teachers and didn't like any of the classes. I was missing Laughing Lotus so much! Something about the Lotus style is so energizing and satisfying, and I didn't get that from any of the classes I took in Hawaii (or any other studio in San Francisco too for that matter). -
Review from Kim S.
San Francisco, CA
3/30/2009
I love this studio!
It was $10 to drop in and $1 to rent a mat. The bathrooms and changing rooms were totally spotless and luxurious.
These are not the most important things...!!
I took a class with Indigo on a Monday and it was full of pretty excited people. The studio has big glass doors to open up when the room is hot from the class before.. which it was..
Mostly I just felt really welcomed and in my moving to SF dreams, really appreciated that. -
Review from smeg g.
San Francisco, CA
2/27/2008
This place is better than leather.
It's inviting with it's bright and airy layout. Classes don't get too crowded either. Several of the instructors have dance back grounds which adds a nice flow to the practice.
If you're a beginner this is a great place to start. Even if you're not a beginner Laura & Keith will take you through some beautiful, creative, flowing poses.
The two hour, Friday night midnight class with live music is a great experience and work out!
If enlightenment is what your looking for this place rocks. Not to mention they have great tea! -
Review from Roque V.
San Francisco, CA
7/24/2009
Hello,
I just read your post on Laughing Lotus. I am not an employee there, a friend brought me in late december and i've been going ever since. I'm surprised by your experience b/c I absolutely don't fit the mission yoga crowd yet always feel very welcome. i'm also big, 6'4" and the stuff does not come easy, but I haven't felt discouraged.
Not sure what you're looking for, but if it's close you might want to give it another try.
The instructors have a wonderful vibe. Astrud, Laura, Indigo, Katharine, Rhiannon are the ones I take classes with most often and they're graet.
I've tried three other studios since joining and while I always get something out of each class, LL just seems more welcoming and nurturing.
I'm also former military and chanting and that stuff always seemed really weird to me, but now I actually like how it relaxes me. What's worse to me is instructors in other studios that chant but don't really commit b/c they're self-conscious. The gals at laughing lotus, they belt out the chants often accompanied by an Indian Accordian type of thing and that commitment is very cool. -
Review from Henri F.
Irvine, CA
2/16/2011
I've felt at home in Laughing Lotus since my first class there two and a half years ago. It's brightly painted and full of warmth and playful joy, so the entire environment is designed to lift you up. They have well-trained teachers and a consistent vinyasa style, so you know that any class you show up for will be great. Every class includes a few minutes of dharma talk and chanting, so you will get a fully integrated experience of yoga, not just a workout. If you want to be serenaded by the poetry of Rumi or Hafez while you sweat and stretch, this is the place for you.
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Review from Melissa N.
Berkeley, CA
4/2/2011
I must admit some bias in writing this, but my experience with Laughing Lotus has been so profound that it's hard to be critical.
Having said this, I believe their philosophy to be sound and true, which has everything to do with the integrity of the Laughing Lotus co-founders, Jasmine and Dana.
Decades ago, when Madonna and Sting were showing up in classes in the East Village and yoga was just shy of being the hipster-filled sensation it is today, Jasmine and Dana were on the verge of beginning the beloved Laughing Lotus.
In the way that some people are either a Beatles or a Rolling Stones fan, West or East coast rap, I believe Laughing Lotus students are either drawn to Jasmine or Dana. I happen to be called to Jasmine's style; when she leads a class she is muse to the inner mystic. She encourages her students to connect with their own truth, which can be painful at times and beautiful at others. Her asana sequencing feels like the most fluid and graceful of dances. The self-deprecating humor she infuses into her instruction as she weaves, catlike, around the studio, puts her students at ease.
Jasmine is also understanding of each yogi's need for careful attention based on his or her specific needs or limitations. I experienced this firsthand as I practiced with her through both of my pregnancies. Not only did she provide thoughtful, safe instruction to me as my body blossomed with the lives of first my son and then my daughter, she gently encouraged and inspired me along the way.
I began my yoga practice 13 years ago in NYC but came back to my native California before Laughing Lotus first opened their doors there. When my former roommate there, the one who took me to my first class in a sweaty East Village studio, told me Laughing Lotus was opening a sister studio in San Francisco, I was so excited. Though I had been living here for several years and had practiced, rather contentedly, at many places, none of them felt like home.
My first class at Laughing Lotus was with Jasmine. I will never forget it as they had just opened and she happened to be subbing for the class I took and was the only student there! Many teachers balk at teaching a class to just one person but she seemed genuinely enthusiastic. She seemed to instinctively know what I needed to learn that day, and every class I've taken with her over the past 3 and a half years has proven the same in that I always experience a revelation, big or small.
I remain grateful for Laughing Lotus even as I wish I could attend classes there more often; I can only hope they will open another studio in the East Bay one day!
