- Restaurants |
- Nightlife |
- Shopping |
- Movies |
- All
The Studio DC
Category: Active Life Fitness & Instruction Yoga Yoga [Edit]
2469 18th St NW(between N Belmont Rd & N Columbia Rd)
Washington, DC 20009
Neighborhood: Adams Morgan
(202) 518-9642
- Hours:
Mon-Thu 7 am - 9:30 pm
Fri 9:30 am - 9:30 pm
Sat 9:30 am - 6 pm
Sun 10:30 am - 7:30 pm
- Good for Kids:
- No
About This Business:
"B Awakened": The Buddha B Yoga Center serves as an invitation to be awakened and journey deep within. Discover your true Self through the healing power… read more »
24 reviews for The Studio DC
24 reviews in English
-
Review from Rachel M.
12/28/2011 1 Check-in Here
I have to admit that I used to really kind of um... *hate* yoga. So I'm not sure why I bought a Groupon for The Studio DC on a whim, but I did. I figured it was $25 down the drain when I came to my senses, but eventually I hauled myself to a beginners class.
One month later: I don't hate yoga! I really really like this studio. The teachers here are not pretentious or all holier than yogi. They are laid back, normal people who just happen to be awesome at yoga. The studio itself is pretty immaculate and smells like incense. At the end of the class the teachers also come around with aromatherapy which is yoga talk for lavender water spray.
I'm not sure if I'm going to keep going because I think that yoga classes in general are a bit too pricey for me, but maybe once in a while if I feel like practicing with others, I'll go here. -
Review from Susie W.
Washington, DC
Updated - 9/9/2011
Just an update: I love this place so much. The teachers are great and so is the community. That is all.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
-
9/25/2010
Studio Serenity is my home studio and I love it.
I just wanted to get this in the ether and will… Read more »
-
-
Review from Melody C.
Arlington, VA
1/30/2011
Great workout - I hadn't done yoga in months, but now am tempted to make it a part of my life again. I went here with my roommate, on the promise of a $10 new student deal, where you can try out the studio as often as you like during a 10 day period for $10. Not knowing whether I'd go a second or third time within 10 days, I still thought it was worth it since $10 still isn't bad for one class. Not tempted to become a regular member since the price isn't as reasonable after the new student deal. Honestly, I think yoga classes are too expensive to begin with, they really ought to hover closer to the $10 range anyway.
As for the quality of the class, i walked away warm, comforted, and super sore, in a good way. I had been having lower back pain from a long international flight and their warm heated room yoga class in adams morgan really did help me to stretch my muscles and relieve back pain. Of course, i had to take it easier than I used to because of underlying stiffness and not having done it for a while, but i felt ok to use the easier poses. the class is still challenging for those who are more regular yogis, but it's elementary enough for people who don't do it that often or have just started. the class i went to focused on vinyasa, which is what i prefer.
the male instructor, despite our tardiness, allowed us to enter even though everybody had already arrived and were ready to start. people in the class gave us dirty looks for being late, which i never appreciate about yoga classes - probably the main reason why i avoid yoga because, despite the supposedly calming spirit of yoga, classmates i've had in the past tend to act really annoyed if you break their concentration in a self righteous way - but the instructor was kind and accommodating and wasn't annoyed at all, and didn't apologize to the class for starting 2 minutes late...a laid back attitude which put us at ease, and which i wish that more yoga students would practice themselves.
i agree with sandy s. that it is lacking in community feel - something that is lacking in many yoga studios - perhaps it has something to do with outrageous prices that prevent people from wanting to attend regularly??? (this is more directed at yoga studios in general)
but overall, had a great experience here, would come again if it were cheaper. -
Review from lara e.
Washington, DC
11/18/2011
Best yoga studio in DC. I have tried them all, and this one always makes me feel great, calm, athletic, and warmed by the compassion and fun approach of the teachers. Ryan, Katja, Ligia, Jeff are all top notch teachers.
-
Review from Laura T.
San Francisco, CA
7/2/2009
I remember the first thing I thought when I walked through the unassuming doorway sandwiched between Subway and Idle Time Books, into a tiny foyer, carpeted with faded oriental rugs and packed with people climbing into or out of their shoes, pressing against the walls, getting smacked in the face by errant yoga mat rolls. I thought "Oh for fuck's sake," and then repeated it as I caught a whiff of the incense spiralling down the creaky staircase between saffron walls, glancing at the smiling buddha and the brocade door hangings.
My skepticism continued as I squeezed my mat into a small space in the long, narrow studio. There were ranks and ranks of mats belonging to other cheapos just like me, taking advantage of $5 DC Yoga Week classes, arranged facing the instructor Alex's mat in the centre of the room. I grumpily took a half lotus on my mat, trying not to bruise my neighbour with me knees. Then the class started.
And then I fell in love. And now I'm addicted.
Studio Serenity's vibe is unlike any other yoga studio I've attended. Rather than the detached, quiet, inwardly-focused practice that I've experienced at Yoga District or Bikram, Studio Serenity tries to create an open, nurturing community feeling through the warmth and friendliness of its instructors, the fact that the instructors and the studio assistants take the time to introduce themselves and to remember your name, the bright orange walls and odd little ornaments dangling from the ceiling, and the the post-practice tea and cookies, all of which can feel a bit eyerollingly-crunchily-hippie at first, but once you get used to the incredibly unfamiliar feeling of people being generally lovely and open and kind, it's, well, really nice.
There's really no better advertisement for the studio than the teachers themselves - they're all fabulously beautiful, fit, glowing, lithe, and healthy. The instruction is great - they make sure to reinforce the basics time and time again until it becomes second nature to contract your core, to rotate your knee outwards in Warrior 2, protect your lower back, push into the base of your thumb and index finger, raise your sitbones, etc. Although I had practiced yoga for a while before, I started from scratch when I joined Studio Serenity because I had been doing it all wrong. Most of the instructors walk around, performing little adjustments here and there--particularly Margaret and Ryan.
The practice will make you use muscles you didn't even know you had, it will make you sweat, it will make you bend, and you will feel better than you ever thought possible, and will respect your body so much more for it.
Studio Serenity is awesome. Really. They will be opening an additional space upstairs and will be adding more classes to the schedule soon, including more level 0-1 and level 3 classes. -
Review from Jesse B.
Washington, DC
11/28/2008
I really love the vibe at this yoga studio - they have great athletic practices, with music and serious flow (you'll break a sweat). I also really love how the teachers demonstrate the poses as they are instructing, really taking part in the practice as well as adjusting the alignment of their students. I feel it elevates the energy of the classes. Interestingly, the instructor teaches in the center of the class, so as you practice you are facing other students rather than a mirror or a blank wall.
Some things to know:
-they often have introductory specials, check their website for current ones
-the studio is cramped, considering how popular it is-get there early for a good space
-quality of instruction is A+
A critique:
Some of the other reviewers have raved about Katya, and I agree -except that it seems she's seriously stepped down the number of group classes she's teaching a week in favor of "private" one-on-one classes. What's the matter Katya, don't you love us anymore?Listed in: Best Yoga in DC
-
Review from Jenn E.
Washington, DC
8/25/2009
The first time I went to a class at Studio Serenity was with a friend who had a few extra class passes, and I figured I would give yoga a try. I had never done it before, and was admittedly skeptical as to how much of a "workout" stretching could be. Boy was I wrong. First, I worked my butt off, but moreover, I fell in love. And as one who hates any form of working out, gym, running, etc. that says a lot! I took as many classes as possible during my 10-day intro (10 days for $10 is an amazing deal!!!), and by the end of the 10 days, I was completely hooked. I'm now a member of the Studio, and I'm there at least 3-4 times a week.
In addition to the physical benefit, the mental benefits of yoga are countless. Every time I walk in to Studio Serenity, I feel relaxed, no matter what kind of day I've had. I feel like I'm among friends, even if I don't know anyone in my class. And when I leave, it's in a much better state of mind.
The teachers at Studio Serenity are amazing (especially Ryan and Katja!). Every single one is attentive, knowledgeable, and they cater every class to all different levels. They also go around and offer adjustments to ensure you're getting the most out of each pose.
The Studio recently opened up it's top floor, now with a lounge area and even more practice space, and is now offering more classes, with times to fit any schedule. Depending on the day, the classes are sometimes crowded, and it's a tight squeeze, but you really don't even notice while you practice.
I highly recommend this studio to anyone who's interested in yoga, whether beginner (like me!) or advanced. You will not be disappointed, and I would bet you keep coming back! -
Review from Chloe F.
5/14/2007
I agree with the first reviewer that this is one of the best yoga studios in DC.
I have gone twice...new members can pay $10 for ten days of unlimited classes so I went on a sat and sun. Both of the teachers I had were great, though the second was better.
They only have one studio room and it gets pretty warm (keep windows closed to keep out 18th street noise) but its not Bikram. The staff is nice and its a very no frills place but they have certain ways of doing things that i like....like natural scented oils before the class so your hands dont slip and it smells nice.
The classes are definitely challenging, but the teachers stress the students should go at their own pace. -
Review from Gerald S.
Washington, DC
12/16/2007
If you live in DC, I recommend trying this studio! The owner Katja is very nice and her classes are by far the best classes (although, I think that is pretty common in yoga studios). All of classes vary in style, so check the schedule - mainly vinyasa, some ashtanga influence. The studio is located on the second floor above Subway in Adams Morgan.
Each class starts with the option of rubbing eucalyptus oil on your hands and neck. Then, the classes gradually pick up to a very vigorous pace - if it says yoga II you will sweat. (I've gotten rid of more than one hangover this way.) The instructors do tell you to go at your own pace and there is no frowning if you take a child's pose when you need to. There definitely is a community feel and the beginner deal is was got me hooked. There used to be a 6am class once a week, which was nice. I haven't been in awhile, though.
The classes usually end with the option of joining the instructor for a cup of tea or two. . . :) -
Review from Jacqueline S.
Washington, DC
1/12/2009
I started my yoga practice about a year ago where I tried about 4 or 5 different studios in the DC area. After 1 class at Studio Serenity, I was hooked!
First, I love the location- so easy for me to get to and they are located above Subway. Sometimes during your shavasana, you can smell the yummy italian bread baking away!
Second, the teachers are great- Ryan is my favorite- he is so down to earth, teaches really great flowing classes and has a voice to relax even the most stressed out yuppie trying to make it in the financial world (me). Stacy and Chanda are also great. My favorite days are when Lulu, Ryan and Katya's pint sized puppy, greets you at the top of the stairs.
Thirdly, the classes are wonderful. They are all thought out, have great music, and are catered to any level student. Although I am capable of doing higher level classes, I enjoy the slower pace of the level one classes and never feel as though I am not challenged in any way.
My amazing yoga journey blossomed because of Studio Serenity and I am so glad that I have this little studio in my life!!
My only complaint is that it is getting way too crowded. As yoga has become the new trendy way to workout and the WSC on Connecticut is being remodeled- there are waaaay too many people lately. -
Review from Karen C.
Silver Spring, MD
1/15/2010
I only went to one class, but I have to say it was a good work-out.
Pros: Friendly instructor who takes the time to have cookies & tea with the students post-work out. Very encouraging as well.
Cons: Class was extremely crowded - at least 15 people.
If the studio was closer or classes less crowded, I would make more of an effort to come here, especially since they offer a $10 for 10 day deal. -
Review from jules k.
Washington, DC
11/26/2009
This is not my primary studio, but I still really love studio serenity.
Something I've found as especially nice is that the teachers really modify the classes to the ability of the students. For example, if its a 0-1 class but everyone in the room has some experience, the teacher will push the class and integrate some more challenging movements and postures.
Something that's challenging is the space (which can be an issue in a lot of studios) the classes often fill up and it can be hard to see the teacher from the back corner of the room. The space by the door where people keep shoes is also tricky to maneuver after class when everyone is crowding by the exit.
Teachers to try: Amberlyn and Nikki (LOVE HER!!!) -
Review from Fernanda S.
Washington, DC
8/9/2010
I love my studio :-) This has been the best discovery since my move to DC over ten years ago. Yoga has completly changed my life and the way i handle stress. It is also a hell of a work out!!! This studio has amazing, amazing teachers!!! Katja, Ryan, Shawn and Sharon Ramirez are my faves. I am a big fan of the Dupont studio. I recommend going and trying it out!
-
Review from Mai T.
Washington, DC
1/24/2010
I was a regular at studio serenity but i haven't been for a while. I always enjoyed the classes and the instructors were wonderful. My favorites were Katja and Ryan.
The studio had a warm and relaxing environment with the option of aromatherapy at the beginning and end of class. I always walked out of a class feeling as if i had a great work out and incredibly relaxed.
My only gripe with the place would have to be the lack of space but they recently did some work on the studio so i don't know what it is like now. -
Review from Elsa B.
Washington, DC
11/7/2010
Studio Serenity is great because the people who work and teach there are truly wonderful. They do such a good job setting up for a worthwhile practice. At the beginning of class, they have you introduce yourself, which seems weird at first, but it's nice to know who you're about to sweat on or kick in the face. They are good with manual adjustments to deepen your practice and make sure you're doing things right. They also pass out eucalyptus oil at the beginning of class and spray you with lavender water during savasana. For me, it's a good balance of the mental and the physical work that I need. I can't say enough good things about Ryan and Katja. All of the other teachers are great too, but these two stand out.
-
Review from Meg G.
2/11/2009
Thanks to Katja and friends, everyone can be introduced to the practice of yoga at whichever pace they may like. I remember the days in '04 with organic tea and fruits and nuts after class. I have not been in a while, but this studio still resonates with me.
Listed in: Livin' the Right Life, Fefe na efe!
-
Review from Becky E.
Washington, DC
11/19/2008
I have been practicing yoga for a number of years now and when I moved to DC I tried out a number of studios before choosing Studio Serenity. At one studio they packed us in like sardines and I couldn't do half the moves without hitting my neighbor. At another studio the beginner class I dropped in on was more like a stretching gym class than it was yoga.
What I like most about Studio Serenity (and ultimately why I chose it) is the integrity they bring to their practice. I found true mindfulness among the instructors - they often remind students that it is more important to do a pose correctly than impressively, they perform hands on adjustments (if you want) to help you feel what the pose should feel like, and they offer challenging but rewarding class experiences for all levels without making students feel like they are inadequate or become bored.
Finally, I also love that at the beginning of every class they put a few drops of eucalyptus oil in the palm of your hands, and at the end of every class they spritz you with lavender water. These are lovely ways to help students create and savor the experience. -
Review from Reggie G.
Washington, DC
Updated - 2/14/2010
This is a great little studio that supports the community and also builds community! They have an amazing into deal - $10 for 10 days and lots of classes in their 2 studios. One of the studios is heated to about 82 degrees and the other is quite hot at around 90. I usually stick to the 82 studio as I am not into being really hot in yoga. Go check it out and try out different teachers to see you you "click" with!
Listed in: Yoga in the DC
1 Previous Review: Show all »
-
1/14/2008
I really like certain classes at Studio Serenity but it had several factors working against it.
The… Read more »
-
-
Review from Maria M.
Washington, DC
11/12/2010
This studio is OK. It really depends on the instructor you get. The only thing is that good instructors tend to leave. Sometimes you get the impression that some instructors just want to show off how well they can do the poses and forget the students.
-
Review from Sky S.
Washington, DC
2/14/2010
I went to several classes under several different instructors, and now it's time to YELP! Eric is my favorite! I enjoy his Yoga 1/2 class and his 2/3 class. He is creative, has a soothing voice, and allows multi-level students to practice yoga together (ie there are several challenging moves that as an amateur, I can modify, but as an advanced student, I would still be challenged.
For the studio: it is easy to hear street traffic and nearby noise from the street. I also think I smelled Subway. It would also be more soothing with darker lighting. -
Review from Rebecca S.
Vienna, VA
8/31/2010
This place made me fall madly in love with yoga. It's always such a great workout and I always leave this place floating on cloud 9. They're fantastic. I could go on and on about them, but I'll try to keep it short.
Pros:
-GREAT workout (esp with Mimi or Eric)
-Great sequence during class. This studio has a flow style with lots of sun salutations and chatturangas amidst warrior 1s and 2s. Then at the end of the class, they almost always end with a fun inversion or some new challenge. I've learned some awesome moves this way, but for the beginner classes, you'll probably end with a bridge/wheel or shoulder stand or head stand or hand stand.
-Fantastic amazing lovely (but kickass) teachers. My favorites used to be Katja and Ryan but they cut back on teaching classes with their Hawaii retreat and opening a 2nd location, but they're back to teaching a couple classes a week. My new favorite is Karoline, but I also adore Shannon, Eric, Mimi, and Roxanne. Honestly, most the teachers here are phenomenal.
-Focus on basics (so if you're a novice, you shouldn't feel intimidated by the super bendy yogis next to you) and safety and some teachers make adjustments throughout class
-3 bathrooms (1 which has a shower) in case you need to change/clean up
-They always offered Yogi tea and cookies or animal crackers after each class and it was a great chance to sit down and meet other yogis and chat with your teacher, but now they don't do this as much
-2 locations technically since they opened the Dupont studio (bigger and brighter with more windows), but you have to pay more for a dual-membership
Cons:
-Kind of pricey (but worth it in my opinion). However, I'd recommend looking out for their deals (several $10 community yoga classes each week...which went up from $8 a few months ago) (or 2-3 times a year, they'll offer 2 months unlimited for $120 or 10 classes for $99, etc.)
-Sometimes they burn incense and I can't stand the smell, but that's a personal preference
-Sometimes crowded classes, but obviously weekend mornings are going to be crowded, so just prepare for it and if you hate it, come to other classes (weekday nights aren't that crowded, I promise)
Basically, I recommend this place wholeheartedly but unless money's no concern for you, I'd look out for their deals. If you've never been here, you can take advantage of their 10 days for $10 intro special. -
Review from Darcy W.
Washington, DC
6/14/2010
I highly recommend yoga instructor Roxanne Rashedi at this studio! I previously worked under Roxanne as a work-study student, and her teaching style has greatly impacted my physical and spiritual growth through yogic practice. Roxanne strives to create a calming, yet energetic environment in the studio where students at all levels can feel comfortable exploring yoga poses and philosophies. Moreover, Roxanne's classes provide a great workout that always left me feeling stronger and more energized. I feel privileged to have studied under such an wonderful instructor!
-
Review from Melissa B.
Washington, DC
4/11/2006
This is one of the best yoga studios in DC. It's a little oasis of calm in the midst of the chaos of Adams Morgan. Most classes are pretty vigorous vinyasa/flow style, but many teachers have different training backgrounds including Anasara and Ashtanga. This is a fast-paced studio, but it is also a community.
-
Review from Venessa M.
Washington, DC
10/12/2009
Studio Serenity introduced me to yoga, and it has been an incredible experience. They have a great facility - calm and welcoming. The staff make an effort to get to know you, even offering tea & cookies after each class. They accommodate all levels, and have fun with the practice. I learn something new every time I walk through the door! They've brought a great deal of serenity to my life - I highly recommend this studio.
