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Santa Monica Yoga
Categories: Active Life Fitness & Instruction Trainers Active Life Fitness & Instruction Yoga Trainers, Yoga [Edit]
1640 Ocean Pk BlvdSanta Monica, CA 90405
Neighborhood: Santa Monica
(310) 396-4040
- Good for Kids:
- No
About This Business:
Although we embrace a diverse array of yoga styles, one consistent theme threads through every class we offer - an excellence in teaching that has made… read more »
58 reviews for Santa Monica Yoga
58 reviews in English
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Review from Ryan P.
PACIFIC PLSDS, CA
1/21/2012
As far as yoga goes, I have kinda been around the block a few times. So when I tell you that a class blew my mind... I need you to pause, reflect, genuflect and accept that I am hand-delivering to you pure gold.
But first, a caveat. This isn't for everyone. Let's check your vitals and see if you pre-qualify:
You follow your bliss over your blister in your yoga practice, you enjoy a little beat and poetry to befriend your flow and would say a silent prayer of hell yes if someone invited your entire class to clear the floor for an hour of free form dance after savasana.
If any of this applies to you, you have just discovered the healthiest way to spend a Friday evening in LA.
So here it is: Funky Fridays with Julian.
Pure god. I mean gold. -
Review from Sara M.
Santa Monica, CA
12/10/2011 Purchased a Yelp Deal
This is a fantastic neighborhood studio with a welcoming relaxed atmosphere and great yoga classes!
The teachers are really awesome, with a broad spectrum of classes for everyone's needs and wants, even pilates.
So even if you have a regular practice at another studio, you should definitely come check Santa Monica yoga out, just to see what they're doing! -
Review from K. D.
Los Angeles, CA
10/31/2011 Purchased a Yelp Deal
I've been to a few classes here, I LOVE LOVE LOVE the prenatal classes and highly recommend them!
The Sunday class with Shana is awesome!
But overall the studio is a bit much for me, a few of the other classes encourage the participants to really "express themselves". I'm all for freedom of expression, but please people at least be considerate of the others around you. We don't all necessarily want to listen to your orgasmic moaning... and in more than one class, for over an hour... learn to express yourself without ruining the experience for everyone around you.
Maybe it makes me a yuppie, but I prefer Yoga Works.
I gave it 4 stars for the awesome prenatal classes.... -
Review from Lea G.
Philadelphia, PA
1/31/2012
I had such a great experience here. After flying all day I needed to get into a class and this place has a good schedule to choose from. I was able to book on line and just showed up. Since I was travelling I didn't have my own mat but they had plenty to choose from.
The instructor, Lori, was helpful but no pushy. She really knows her stuff. I have been to many classes and feel that she was the perfect balance. -
Review from Lindsay A.
Santa Monica, CA
1/8/2012 1 Check-in Here
Just started attending Santa Monica Yoga this week as part of a month-long promotion. I'm hooked! The instructors are very considerate, helpful, and friendly. The classes challenge you to do the work of yoga, but taking care to listen to your limitations and ability in the moment. What I love most is that the studio itself is not uber pretentious - but calming and serene. I wish there were a better way to get from the front office to other studios (when classes are in session), but that's not a huge issue. There are also tons of packages and promotions - for new students, a great one month deal to try out classes; they also have workshops and orientations to different topics. Very cool! Wish I could go here every day. :)
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Review from Ursula M.
Los Angeles, CA
1/23/2012
really nice place. friendly helpful staff. good classes for beginners. nice space with three different studios. the classes i've been to arent crowded and are convenient for me. i haven't noticed any overly "expressive" fellow patrons as some of the other reviewers are noting. they also give discounts if you dont drive there!
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Review from Lauren B.
Los Angeles, CA
10/8/2011
I love everything about this studio.
The instructors are wonderful, the owner is amazing and the clients are friendly. The vibe in the studio is very welcoming, laid-back and peaceful.
The three studios of varying sizes are beautiful and clean.
Also, for those considering a teacher training program, Santa Monica Yoga is a fantastic place to train.... life-changing.
And...
No yoga snobs here! :) -
Review from Tessa C.
9/15/2011
I've only gone once - but what a breath of fresh air.....
This studio feels relaxed, homey, and a clear part of the neighborhood. Not fancy, and love the fact that you feel accepted as who you are. Other places in the area - there's this feeling that you have to look good and be dressed head to toe in lululemon. Here I can show up in a ratty t-shirt and shorts and focus on the yoga.
I loved the Level 1-2 class that I took. Really supportive, nurturing, and relaxed. I like the nice blend of practice and meditation.
I signed up for the new student package - 3 classes for $35.
Great deal. And love the fact that it's close to home for me. -
Review from Bettina C.
Los Angeles, CA
9/12/2011
If I could give SMY 6 stars, I would with no hesitation. I just love this place, this is a peaceful sanctuary. I have tried different classes with different teachers and they are all amazing, real professionals, know what they are doing, spend time correcting your poses, nice. They manage to create a very safe and relaxing environment where you make progress one pose at a time. The management obviously makes a great effort of hiring the best yoga teachers in town. They also have a great schedule, very convenient with tons of classes for all levels. No show-off, no meat market, like so many other studios in LA, people from every age, level, and background are welcome and respected.
I HIGHLY recommend this place if you are looking for some real yoga experience! -
Review from Jen B.
Los Angeles, CA
7/29/2011
SMY is my new home studio. It's conveniently located and has a great selection of classes, times and teachers.
If you live in the santa monica area, I highly recommend you come. I love taking Jane and Indira's morning classes. They are excellent teachers, very attentive and helpful. They push you in a possitive way and always make sure you are doing the movements correctly. I've learned SO much from them!
Parking: you can park on Ocean Park for free....I havent had any problems!
The studio is the green building located next door to Bob's market...between bob's and the bike shop. They re-painted the building so there is not sign like in the pictures you see.....just look for the bright green building next to Bob's..you can't miss it!
More to come as i explore new classes and teachers :) -
Review from Clara B.
Los Angeles, CA
9/14/2011 Purchased a Yelp Deal
I love my experiences there. It is very professionally run--and the
teachers are excellent.
I loved my YELP coupon was fantastic. -
Review from Maryann R.
Santa Monica, CA
11/11/2011
I started going to this studio with a Yelp deal. I can walk to it, which is a big plus. Due to an injury from my over-enthusiastic yoga practice, I had to find classes that were more restorative in nature. SMY fit the bill perfectly. There is even a class called Yoga for Stiff People. I'm now going to level 1-2 classes with Luke and Natalie, and they are really great. I highly recommend this studio.
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Review from Mike K.
Los Angeles, CA
10/1/2011 Purchased a Yelp Deal
Great variety of classes. Very happy with the 5 classes I've taken so far.
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Review from Lucy Y.
Los Angeles, CA
3/4/2011 1 Check-in Here
I've come to a few yoga classes here over the years - all in the south room (entrance from the back) - and in general I've enjoyed the classes. I've found all the teachers to be mellow and offer great adjustments to students' poses.
Last night, I came for a new moon meditation ($10) however and it brought up all kinds of stuff for me! First of all, when I hear "meditation", I assume it's going to be silent - but this one was guided all the way through.
In hidsight, it kinda made sense - Indira guided us as a yoga teacher guides you with verbal minute pose adjustments. I just had an expectation of silent group meditation time, and was really disappointed to experience that only at the end - and only for 5 minutes. But I get that yoga and meditation brings up stuff : /.
What we did have in the hour and 15-ish minute class was:
* 10-15 minutes of journaling what our intentions were for the new moon cycle, during which Indira read about astrological placements for the planets at this time, and what they signify.
* 10-15 minutes of basic stretching and pranayama
* 20-ish minutes of guided meditation, with Indira's verbal adjustments throughout
* 10-ish minutes of walking meditation, also with Indira's adjustments voiced throughout
* 5-ish minutes of silent meditation
* 15-ish minutes of talking as a group about what we liked and/or what our challenges were
I don't see what came up for me as a negative to Indira, the dynamic yoga teacher who led the class. I would still come back for more yoga classes in the future and recommend her meditation classes (she offers both new moon and full moon meditations) for someone wanting a guided meditation, or a beginner who is uncomfortable with the thought of extended silent meditation time.Listed in: Decompression - beginning NOW…
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Review from Matthew L.
Santa Monica, CA
10/20/2011 Purchased a Yelp Deal
The best classes are GREAT and it may take a little crowd-sourcing for you to find them. But by and large, this is studio that is much more yin-focused, and not obsessed with flow (although they do have a bunch of good flow teachers).
Highly recommended for beginners. As someone with a little more experience under my belt, I've loved classes with Daniel Stewart, Alison McCready and Kyra Heglund. Everyone else has been so slow and remedial it's been hard to stay awake. But just depends on what kind of style you like.
Also: Fantastic main studio - HUGE room with natural light.
Also: Free Parking! -
Review from Yule C.
Santa Monica, CA
9/20/2011 Purchased a Yelp Deal
I had a great first experience at Santa Monica Yoga. The class was small and the instruction was excellent. The tandem parking meant I was called out of class to move my car, but there was no attitude or drama whatsoever. It is what it is. easygoing and drama free. Parking is the only minor issue. The yoga was great.
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Review from David A R.
Venice, CA
9/15/2011 Purchased a Yelp Deal
Great spaces. Friendly local staff. And Kara Haglund is my favorite teacher there.
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Review from Bridget C.
Los Angeles, CA
10/23/2011 Purchased a Yelp Deal
What a great YELP Deal! Santa Monica Yoga is the best yoga studio in Los Angeles. The teachers are fun but very skilled, and pay attention to each student. The Front Desk is helpful, friendly, and professional. They also offer the biggest variety of yoga glasses in this Los Angeles.
Bridget C. -
Review from Anita T.
Los Angeles, CA
3/14/2011
Santa Monica Yoga is my home studio and has been for many years now. Bruce, the owner, is a caring and kind person. The studio attracts talented teachers and laid-back, unpretentious students.
I am someone with a history of back pain, and I have been able to achieve a significant improvement in my level of flexibility. I have found a number of teachers who have taught me how to adjust certain poses based on where my body is at.
Equally important, nearly all of the teachers focus on the spiritual aspects of yoga, not just the mechanics of the poses.
Some of my favorite teachers are Indira Shekerjian, Mike Pottenger, Julian Walker and Kyra Haglund. -
Review from Chris S.
Irvine, CA
9/19/2011
I just called and Bruce (owner) was awesome, answered all my questions and I look forward to sending my subscribers there! We need more people like Bruce in this world.
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Review from Margot M.
Venice, CA
10/13/2011 Purchased a Yelp Deal
Love the Studio
Love the Vibe
Love the teachers and Bruce!
Instant comfort, feels real... -
Review from Marya S.
Studio City, CA
2/1/2011
Summary: It's a community studio with a wide range of classes and workshops to introduce you to new approaches and deepen your practice. The teachers are knowledgeable and experienced and really care about their students.
Longer version:
This yoga studio is more than a studio -- it's a community. When I first moved to L.A. in 2010, I was looking for a place to not only practice but potentially train to be a teacher. But, I have special needs: a fragrance free environment.
I sent an email inquiring about the use of cleaning products and incense, and I received a reply assuring me that the studio used only environmentally friendly products and had an etiquette guidelines that asked people to come unfragranced as courtesy to others with allergies.
REALLY?!?! Yay!
I signed up for the SMY's $65 new student special online, which allowed me to sample classes to my heart's content. The classes ranged from gentle to high energy, and the instructors, particularly in gentle and Levels 1 & 2 were very attentive to proper alignment and suggesting modifications for injuries. The flow classes also had that personal attention that made me feel cared for. I felt very safe and welcomed, and for a L.A. newbie I felt like I'd found a place I could call home.
I loved it so much I went through teacher training there. Then I began volunteering in the office. Even though I live way over in the valley, I drive over several times a week because SMY is home, even if my apartment is across town. -
Review from mary p.
Venice, CA
11/23/2010
I just love this yoga spot. It is hands down the least pretentious, closest thing to a really community spot on the Westside. It's not too expensive, and if you belong to KCRW it's even cheaper. I truly feel at home here, more than nearly anywhere else in Los Angeles. It's homey, doesn't mind if your outfit is raggedy, or if your hair looks like crap, or if you haven't been in a while and just need to hide in the corner and do child's pose. Nobody gives a crap. It's awesome.
I have to be honest that I'm not going to admit my favorite class because it's already too crowded, but if you happen to be pregnant, the pre-natal classes with Shauna kept me in pretty good shape almost up until birth. And the hot yoga classes with Justin or Jordan or somebody like that are packed to the rafters with people who look like they are exiting an orgy when the doors open up - if I was into the hot yoga (and bizarrely orgasmic yoga experiences, clearly) I would check that one out. -
Review from Dawn J.
Santa Monica, CA
9/14/2011 Purchased a Yelp Deal
Am a long-time patron of SM Yoga. The studios are clean and well maintained. The teachers are very well trained. After 8 years of SMY classes, I have yet to come across a teacher I did not enjoy. This is a great studio and there is even some parking nearby. My favorite classes are the "community" offered twice per day.
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Review from Marley K.
Santa Monica, CA
7/27/2011
I can't rave about this studio enough. I'm not much into yoga, but I've been taking their Pilates mat classes for years. They have an amazing class schedule offering all types of yoga classes (they have 3 rooms in their location). If you buy a class package, the price is pretty affordable but they do offer cheaper community classes and reduced rates to students and seniors. The level of instruction is truly top-notch. This is why I don't go to regular chain gyms: you can't find teachers like this. There's plenty of street parking and there's a couple really good restaurants on the same block if you want to grab some grub after class.
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Review from Wes S.
Santa Monica, CA
12/2/2011 Purchased a Yelp Deal
Great place for beginning and experienced students alike. Bruce, the owner, is awesome and helpful. Every class I've been too has been taught by personable, well-trained instructors. No attitude here at all.
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Review from Sushma K.
Los Angeles, CA
11/14/2011
I love this studio. They have one large and two smaller studios that are maintained beautifully. There are so many classes that you could take, ranging from absolute beginner to advanced. The instructors are excellent. I enjoyed Nancy's Ashtanga classes even though I couldn't really do all of the poses. I loved Lori Snyder's Groove Yoga classes, her playlists rock. The instructors encourage you to do your best without overdoing it. The other people who come in there are also pleasant. The same has to be said for the staff. The area is so peaceful, especially if you are in the smaller studios in the back. Maybe it's the location, but it never got stuffy in any of the studios, something that happens all too often at yoga studios in the US. I always left all classes at SMY feeling calm and happy.
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Review from Smar T.
Medford, MA
11/3/2007
I've only been to 2 classes here, but both were terrific. I study primarily Forrest yoga, and Julian has his roots in it, so when I was in town I thought I'd check him out. So glad I did! The front desk person was really friendly and helpful, the other yogis and yoginis were really nice, and the vibe was pleasant.
The Sunday church class was in a huuuuge studio and was full. But even though it was large, it didn't feel like I got lost in the crowd. I still got an adjustment or two, and we were given lots of opportunities throughout the practice to do what we wanted ("now do your favorite inversion" or "take a few breaths and move your body however feels right").
The Juicy Tuesday class was AWESOME! It was in a smaller space and felt really intimate. The lights were low, music was incorporated, and the practice was really focused. I felt like everyone around me really just dropped in, and we were all really present for that hour and a half.
Parking is easy. There's a free lot behind, and lots of meters in front, plus there's plenty of on-street parking in the surrounding area.
I def recommend this studio, and in particular Julian's classes. -
Review from Tsai Yi C.
Pasadena, CA
10/29/2009
Robyn Schumacher's class remains among my most positively memorable yoga experiences. I started my practice there after years of zero practice. I was stiff, weak and poorly aligned. Robyn had a soft yet authoritative way about her teaching which kept me coming back for more.
Robyn teaches Hatha yoga at Santa Monica Yoga. She challenges her students but respects everyone for where they're at. The studio is well-kept. Not exactly spotless but pretty good for a small business.
I highly recommend this studio for beginners and advanced students alike. A very safe and peaceful space for ongoing practice. -
Review from Claudia S.
Venice, CA
5/20/2011
I hadn't been to a yoga class in 3, maybe 4 years, but tonight I decided to check out Julian Walker's Funky Friday's class - part yoga, part dance. It was amazing! I got a great workout in the first hour of traditional yoga, and then he guided us through an hour of trance-freestyle dance. Amazingly, I didn't feel awkward, judged, or intimidated. It was just an hour of joyous dance!! During yoga, He quotes bits of song lyrics, poetry, and personal insights, all of which are encouraging, enlightening and thoughtworthy. The dancing? I felt like I was at a club with Jason Bentley spinning!! All in all, a good workout and a lot of fun! I will be back!!
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Review from Ann B.
Los Angeles, CA
10/12/2011 Purchased a Yelp Deal
Awesome studio. Down to earth, friendly staff, approachable fellow yogis, awesome teachers! It's worth the drive from the valley to practice here!
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Review from Bekah L.
Los Angeles, CA
9/25/2011
What a wonderful yoga studio! I am new to yoga, and immediately felt comfortable here. The staff and instructors are all very friendly and helpful, and I am enjoying the great selection of classes.
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Review from Nichelle H.
Kirkland, WA
9/24/2009
I started going here primarily because it's so close to me - I can walk to class. I also discovered that their cost is a little lower than most other yoga places.
I bounced around from teacher to teacher, trying whatever classes fit my schedule that day - they were all excellent. For a short while, I regularly attended the Saturday pilates class with Laura Gideon.
Now, 8 months pregnant, I've been going back regularly to Shayna's prenatal class. LOVE IT. Shayna seems to really know her stuff and because she specializes in prenatal yoga, you're not limited & actually get a good yoga workout. (Non-prenatal teachers, I've discovered, tend to be a little overly worried and restrict you from doing many things during class.)
The atmosphere in Shayna's class is wonderful, too - being in the West Side and doing yoga, I was afraid it would be a little too "touchy feely/hippy" for me. But it's a nice, normal yoga class and all the other pregnant women in the class are great company.
(All the classes had a great atmosphere - I never felt uncomfortable or "not good enough" in any of the classes, there was a nice range of newbies and people who'd been practicing for a long time.)
The only thing I'd change is that I wish the prenatal class were offered more often (I went on Wed, now I have to wait until Sunday again!) and I'd love to see the pilates class offered more often, too (for AFTER I have the baby!) -
Review from Bill B.
Los Angeles, CA
10/9/2011
Great set up. We go to Natalie's class on Saturday morning, but my wife has gone to classes with other instructors. It's a nice age mix of participants, so everyone will feel comfortable.
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Review from JBellee B.
Compton, CA
10/8/2011
This place is so claustrophobic-- no rays of sun ever shine here. Plus, it's way too much of a touch-feely scene. Other SM studios are better lit, and have instructors who stretch themselves, and variegate their classes much much more.
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Review from Carolynn L.
Los Angeles, CA
7/10/2009
Santa Monica Yoga is what yoga studios should be: friendly, diverse, welcoming places that offer something for everyone. The staff and instructors are amazing, and they have such a wonderful mix of classes; everything from Flow, Kundalini, Restorative, Pre and Post-Natal, Qigong, Gyrokensis...the list goes on.
I have favorites: any class by Jane Zingale, Mary Donovan or Nathalie Canessa (Women's Yoga on Thursday is incredible!), but I have to say that I have never gone to a class that didn't leave me happy, centered and feeling fantastic. I discover something new and wonderful with each new session I try.
The best thing about this studio is there are no "posers," no judgement, and everyone there, from instructors to those taking part in the sessions, has incredible energy.
You know you've found a "yoga home" when the studio you go to offers free yoga for cancer patients. This place is the very best - I recommend it wholeheartedly! -
Review from anne c.
Santa Monica, CA
4/18/2011
After many attempts to find a comfortable and authentic yoga class on the westside I discovered Catherine's community class and LOVED it. She is thoughtful and helpful and teaches you so much about your body as you go...All the classes I've been to at SMY have a really welcoming vibe and it's easy to slip in and get to it without feeling intimidated.
Indira's full moon meditation group is also a favorite! As someone who is working hard to build my own home meditation practice I find that her guidance is inspired and that her ability to hold a peaceful place for the group is so helpful as we all learn to quiet the chaos of our monkey minds! I would suggest this group to anyone who is interested in learning more about meditation while sitting with a small group of amazing people in a truly intimate and inspired setting! -
Review from Lena W.
9/3/2008
I just took part in a mixed flow yoga class last night with Daniel Stewart, and I have to say I'm pretty happy with the results. He was funny and kept the class amused, but also added a good dose of spirituality and a lot of awesome yoga moves.
My body's aching a bit today, but in a really good way. I'll definitely be back when I can! -
Review from Mary-Laure N.
Venice, CA
5/10/2011
I love this place.
It is an unpretentious studio, with a very laid-back and friendly vibe. No snotty LA around here.
The large studio is wonderful, so bright and beautiful.
I tried a whole bunch of instructors, some worked better FOR ME than others - I love love love Dana and also Laura who teaches Pilates. Did I mention I love Dana? He's great. But all the teachers I tried seemed to really care and be involved.
Lovely selection of stuff at the boutique. -
Review from Erin S.
Agoura Hills, CA
10/16/2010
I can't speak for all of the instructors at Santa Monica Yoga, but I've been a devoted attendee of Julian Walker's classes for many years now and I just had to throw my 5 stars into the ring. Julian teaches several classes throughout the week but my favorites are the sweaty, dance party Friday class and the Sunday morning "yoga church" (for all levels, there's something for everyone).
"Funky Friday" is perfect when you need to cast off the craziness or stress of the week on Friday evening. After a good stretchy yoga session, the lights dim and the music beats drop... if you're able to relax a little and free of yourself of self-consciousness, you will be oh-so grateful. It's like dancing all night at a fab new club without the hassle of dressing up, wearing high heels, paying for drinks, trying to meet someone... or avoid unwanted attention. No, no, no. This is all about love and allowing yourself to dance with reckless abandon to amazing music that will uplift your spirits -- and everyone else in the room is doing exactly the same thing! Julian is a musician and loves finding great songs with great beats - his playlists are always lots of fun. Sometimes there are bongos and other instruments playing in the room, keeping the beat going, or spontaneous singing. I always feel so happy and blissed-out (and sweaty and starving!) after it's over. Such a great way to start the weekend.
At the other end of the spectrum, "Yoga Church" is an introspective, sweet, deep-stretchy, morning love-in with a community of like-minded yogis. Julian starts it off with breathing exercises and a nice, long sequence of deep stretches for hamstrings, side body, legs and necks. Then sun salutations and warrior poses, as well as bridge and focused core work. But all of this is set to incredible music, from Ben Harper and Alexi Murdoch to U2 and John Lennon and Dead Can Dance and so many more beautiful voices. Julian offers up inspiration from ancient poets and philosophers (Rumi, Mary Oliver, David Whyte), encouraging students to consider the words as they continue their work and stretches. Much of the work is done with eyes closed so that the deeper work is about finding space inside one's own body, with one's own breath. It's energetic and accessible and I always come away from Yoga Church with a deeper sense of serenity.
If you are looking to deepen your yoga practice beyond the physical poses, you must check out Julian's classes. Just be open to the experience - treat it like an experiment. Namaste!
