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Yoga Mandala
Categories: Active Life Fitness & Instruction Yoga Beauty and Spas Massage Yoga, Massage [Edit]
2807 Telegraph Ave(between Stuart St & Oregon St)
Berkeley, CA 94705
Neighborhood: South Berkeley
(510) 486-1989
- Hours:
Mon-Thu 9 am - 9 pm
Fri 9 am - 8 pm
Sat-Sun 9 am - 6 pm
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
- By Appointment Only:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
$60 for $90 Certificate
Claire R. said: "David provides a top notch blend of intuition and high level skill! After one session, my very tight neck and jaw muscles released significantly. I…" read more »
35 reviews for Yoga Mandala
35 reviews in English
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Review from Aimee C.
Berkeley, CA
12/30/2010
My husband and I are new to yoga. We started at Yoga Mandala with their "Foundations of Yoga" eight week series class. Our instruction was Sumanasa (her birth name is Suzy-- at this studio they go buy their names given to them by their gurus). She is an absolutely amazing teacher of beginners. Right from the start she asked about people's motivations for joining the class as well as any physical issues that may be present, and later she remained sensitive to the students' wants/needs. She taught us about yoga practice from the ground up, from the meaning of beginning and end of class chants, to the concepts behind different sets of poses, to physical posturing, etc. etc. There was even a class where half of it was dedicated to a long meditation. Some of the "workouts" were challenging (especially the one where we worked out the core), others not so much. Really the point was to learn about yoga and various ways to practice-- and that instruction was performed very patiently and thoroughly.
The studio itself is very physically pleasant. There are small shrines with flowers in the building and lots of wooden elements, giving the place a very natural, comfortable feel. The main lobby contains books and other items for sale, as well as hot tea (in real teacups!) and water. The temperature was right--I neither felt hot nor cold during practice. There were no off smells that I noticed. The place seemed pretty fresh to me. Also, the receptionists were very nice and patient with the newbies. Oh, and you can rent mats up front, but they sometimes don't have any left for the evening classes.
The people at Yoga Mandala take their practice very seriously, but don't seem elitist or intimidating. This is definitely NOT a "No Ohm Zone" kind of place. They teach in a holistic way that I think is more attractive to people who are looking for the mind-body connection. They offer an impressive variety of classes, workshops, special events and appointments that address exercise, the mind-body connection, healing and more. We will definitely return to the studio. -
Review from Peg S.
8/22/2011
For those with a bun in the oven (and no, not because you're baking a cinnamon, hot-cross, or Chinese pork bun in the kitchen), they offer great 90 minute prenatal yoga classes (love Kat's Sun prenatal class), and workshops. It's a bit far for me to get to, but I like the sequestering, intimate feel of the studio. I did their $30 for 30 days special to try them out.
Now, if only I can just remember that I'm supposed to go into the shakti, not shiva, marked bathroom (sorry to the shiva I walked in on last time). I blame the pregnancy hormones . . . -
Review from Rachel K.
CA
5/27/2010
Yoga Mandala is the best yoga studio in the Bay Area.
Wait...wait...that's a ridiculously subjective statement.
Let me try that again....
Yoga Mandala is the best yoga studio in the......world?
Doh!
Okay, so I just can't resist heaping praise on this place. Unlike a lot of my Bay Area kin, I didn't glide out of my mother's womb in warrior pose. As a yoga late-bloomer, I wasn't too sure how much spryness I could eke out of these here muscles and bones. Through courses at Mandala over the past two years, I have a new body, and more importantly, a new relationship WITH my body.
I have taken a smattering of courses at other studios. To each their own, but if you are drawn to yoga because you are seeking a more harmonious mind-body relationship, you will not find a better studio. If you value thoughtful instruction, you will not find a better studio. If you want to engage in super competitive asana-ing to new-age house music while your neighbor grits their teeth in pain and showers you with sweat, this is NOT the studio for you.
You will get a challenging workout at Mandala without compromising the integrity of your body. Thanks to this studio, I can easily walk into a class at another studio without risking injury.
I highly recommend Sumanasa's class; she is a gifted, compassionate instructor with a very keen eye and thorough understanding of form. Every other instructor I've had at Mandala has been similarly thoughtful, helpful, and challenging in a positive way.
There's a pretty good chance that you'll love it here. But don't let me stop you if you'd prefer to shuffle around your mat to disco breaks. :) -
Review from Katharine F.
Berkeley, CA
9/14/2010
This review is for Amy, Rachel, and the studio.
Amy - This was the best massage of my life so far. I would definitely go back. I haven't been to the other massage therapist at Yoga Mandala but I do love a good massage. I told her I was stressed and was having tension in my neck, by the time I left I felt lighter and ALL my tension was gone.
Rachel - I love her classes and they fit into my schedule. She is warm and friendly and takes the time to welcome you to her class. I feel free to work at my own level when I'm in her class.
The studio - I like the smell, it's clean, and everyone has been very helpful. Every experience here has been five stars and while I haven't been to all the class or all of the massage therapist, I have a feeling they are always trying for five stars. -
Review from Rachel W.
Mountain View, CA
7/5/2010
This is an awesome yoga studio and a wonderful healing center. I don't think one can practice the physical postures of yoga without even thinking of the higher goals of yoga. I think yoga should be about the union of the consciousness and the body, the femininity and the masculinity, the awareness of an ever pure self or non-self that lies within you; and the series of postures should be the steps towards the union with that luminous divine that dwells in the depth of our being.
Therefore I don't like yoga studios that teach yoga only as a series of intensely contorted body postures. I like Yoga Mandala because it gives you a well-balanced, integrated approach (kinda like my previous review of the Sivananda Yoga in San Francisco), the "whole package," the "real deal," so to speak... Here are some of the things I love about this studio:
(1) TEACHER QUALITY - Absolutely fantastic! Some great instructors here:
- Isaac Milder (Beginning to Level 1). A quietly confident and deeply calming yogi. His calming presence almost gives you the illusion that he has attained a state of unshakable inner peace. I really like his peacefulness, composure, equanimity and even detachment - somehow it's very reassuring. It steadies the disquiet mind and calms me down instantly. His teaching focuses on awareness of breath, body sensations, mental states, chakra, and the cultivation of mindfulness. He chants BEAUTIFULLY - his rich resonance vibrates the ocean of pulsation around him - and he speaks slowly but clearly, giving clear verbal cues. He gently guides students from one posture to another - but never too rigorously. The class is slow, but well-paced - perfect for beginners.
- Sean Feit (All Levels): Excellent class! Expect beautiful chanting and music, a meditative but also intense, challenging and invigorating class. I appreciate his warmth, and the intelligence, wit, and the well-calculated intensity of his class. His class feels "organic," detoxifying and deeply spiritual at the same time! I leave his class feeling calm, pliable and totally rejuvenated.
- Hrimati (Susan) Fauman and Sumanasa (Suzy) Daren: I don't usually get the transfusion of calmness and tranquility from these two instructors (like I do from Issac and Sean's class), but they are good in their own ways. I especially like Hrimati's class. She is confident and warm, experienced and knowledgeable. Her explanations and insights are very helpful, even enlightening sometimes.
- Charles Ekabhumi Ellik: Playful, energetic, humorous, down-to-earth. The class is less meditative, but more fun. He would carefully adjust your posture if you didn't do it right. Expect a delightful class if you choose him. Very friendly and laid-back yogi.
There are more, and they are all remarkably good. Top-rated.
(2) BEAUTIFUL SPACE: There are 2 studios. One is literally the temple space, in front of a beautiful Hindi altar donned with flowers, candles and incense. It has a hardwood floor, is dim, cozy, atmospheric, spiritual, filled with mystical charm. Another is modern, bright, spacious, clean, airy, filled with natural light in the day time, with pictures of yogi on the front wall and a Hindi statue at the side. In the office, there are tons of books on yoga, tantra, Hinduism, Tibetan Buddhism, etc. on the bookshelves for sale. Hot tea is available at the back. Overall, it's cozy, quiet, low-key, tranquil - especially during weekday non-peak hours.
(3) REASAONBLE PRICE: As of now, it's $135 for 10 classes, plus various discounts available (for students, teachers, seniors, and there's a "Recession Buster" from time to time). It doesn't give out the corporate or business feeling that some chain yoga studios give out. No hard selling here; no pressure in signing up for any package. Great class schedule. Excellent workshops (Ayurveda, Chakra, Tantric philosophy, etc.) that allow you to learn about the deeper dimensions of yoga.
This is the place to go to if you have the patience to practice yoga as a form of holistic, experiential spirituality (instead of treating it as a mere workout). One yelper says that this is the BEST yoga studio in the Bay Area. Having tried out a number of yoga studios, I have to agree with her wholeheartedly. This studio is my sanctuary. It is beyond 5 stars.Listed in: Awesome Yoga Studios in the…
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Review from Nikki c.
Oakland, CA
2/13/2009
I went here several years ago, and had a bad experience with a teacher adjusting me in a way that made me feel uncomfortable. If the shock of you touching me in a relatively private spot with no warning makes me fall out of a pose, perhaps it's time to re-evaluate your teaching style. So I didn't return for several years.
Fast-forward to 2009. I'm on a quest to try a few studios to find a studio with a class schedule and pricing system that fits with my life. You know, someone who works to pay for the ridiculously high cost of yoga.
I came back on a Saturday for a mid-morning class and met a friend.
First off, the classes are scheduled back to back, so there's no time for the room to air out. It also means you're not really getting your money's worth. When I'm paying to work out, I want EVERY SINGLE MINUTE I PAID FOR TO BE A USEFUL MINUTE.
Secondly, they did some sort of special unlimited deal in January. That meant that there were several people who were going to the two classes back to back.
Third. The teacher reprimanded us for not properly spacing our mats. Really? Shouldn't you be helping us get organized, instead of floating on your self satisfied sense of zen?
Fourth. The class was too packed. I would rather have an online sign up system, or have people who showed up late turned away, or have them tell people they can't do back to back classes. It was just uncomfortably crowded. I'm fairly tall, and I hit the wall with my foot in one pose. I almost got kicked in the face by someone in another pose. My companion has a more flexible schedule and was able to attend during the week. Apparently the classes are less crowded during the week. Personally, I would rather be turned away sometimes, but always be able to fully extend in my poses and fully enjoy the class.
Fifth. I felt like I got a decent work out. I realize that in the Bay Area, it's almost illegal to admit that you like the workout aspect of yoga, rather than just the enlightenment. But....realistically, I like the workout and the mellowness.
Sixth. Parking. The meters are two hour meters. In order to get to the studio and sign up and get set up, and allow time to leave, you are risking getting a ticket. There is also neighborhood parking if you're willing to hunt for it.
Seventh... Would I come back? Maybe. But probably not on Saturday. Maybe on a day when I've taken the day off work to go to the dentist and run errands, and I can go to class at 2 in the afternoon. -
Review from Trixie J.
San Francisco, CA
5/13/2006
I go to Yogo Mandala more for the bodywork than yoga class. Their yoga instructors are terrific though, and they offer a range of classes--various levels and various types of yoga (but no bikram, so thankfully, the studio is very clean and does not reek of sweat and BO). FYI, teachers and students are all expected to do opening and closing chants. Price for a drop in class is about average, but not cheap. Cheaper to get a class pass. Monthly memberships cost more than a regular gym due. Discounts available for students.
They offer a good variety of bodywork and therapists. Whereas it's not a "spa setting," you can get amazing massages with some of the therapists. Most of them practice what they preach and are in great shape. Prices are reasonable as well.
Overall studio decor is lovely, peaceful, relaxing, clean and aspirational. Staff is friendly. Street parking is fairly easy. -
Review from Girl S.
San Mateo, CA
2/28/2009
Here are my observations:
+ professional, inspiring instructors.
+ great variety of classes, late evening classes too
- no place to change you clothes
- no mirrows (I personally need them to see if i'm in a right pose) -
Review from Azzia Z.
Berkeley, CA
3/24/2009
I'd been practicing for six months when I found Yoga Mandala, and I'm glad I got a good foundation before arriving. I found my way to Skanda's level 2-3 Sunday morning class, and it was powerful! Really pushed my edge, in the best of ways. He has great energy, facilitates a really fun class, and there was great yoga happening all around me. The practice released a lot for me, I am definitely coming back!
Update: Niema (David)'s T/Thursday evening classes are also great. This studio attracts special people, in the best of ways. A neat collection of healers, seekers, fun-lovers & learners. -
Review from Jagadamba S.
Berkeley, CA
2/22/2007 3 photos
Ok, I HAVE to give it 5 stars, I'm one of the owners :) But truly, Yoga Mandala is not only a lovely place to practice yoga, it is an excellent resource for educating yourself on the philosophy of classical, non-dual Tantra from the Kashmir Shaivist tradition. What?!? See http://www.trikainstit... to learn more.
Reading over the reviews below, I would have to agree that yes, we're not your typical yoga place. Our main studio is consecrated as a Siva Nataraj Mandir (non-agaamic temple; to learn what the difference is, sign up for our Pujari Training courses!). So your yoga practice can be supported by Shiva, the father of yoga.
But that doesn't mean that you can't get great "abs and buns" at Yoga Mandala :). We offer advanced level Vinyasa classes in addition to our more traditional Adi-Yoga. And during the correct seasons and times of day, traditional yoga can kick your butt too!
In reference to the "algae covered windows," our front windows were covered by the landlord with a tinted film to screen out the sun. This inexpensive method has the drawback of being vulnerable to the elements and graffiti vandals. This summer we replaced the tinting and the windows no longer look crackled and spotty.
Since we are also a temple mandir, cleanliness is important. But we don't believe in sterility. We do burn incense and oil lamps within the studio at our multiple altars. And since non-dual Tantra is designed to bring you more into the world and what it means to be truly human, we do not strive to create an artificial environment. There is a stillness to the place that exists because of our efforts to remain grounded and centered, not because we all whisper and tip toe about.
I invite you to come see for yourself. View our schedule at http://www.yogamandala.... We're offering a new student discount of $28 for 3 classes. Mention that you read about us through Yelp and get a free bottled coconut water with your first class as well.
Namaste - I bow to the divine in you! Hope to see you around.
Jagadamba -
Review from Elizabeth M.
Oakland, CA
2/1/2011
I attended about 10 classes at Yoga Mandala over the course of a month. I'd label myself as an experienced beginner with yoga, so with that in mind here are my thoughts on the studio.
The street parking was manageable and the studio just finished a nice remodel of its front room. Some of the classes were too crowded, so try to arrive early to get a decent spot. Also be prepared for 1.5 hour classes.
This studio does more meditative chanting than any other studio I've been to; I didn't like it at first but it grew on me as I got used to it. These were my favorite classes, they all flowed well and I never could believe how quickly they went!
-Saturday 9am Vinyasa with David
-Sunday 4:30pm Hatha with Isaac
-Monday 9am Hatha with Jessica
-Thursday 9am Vinyasa with Rachel
Classes I only attended once:
-Monday 5:30pm Vinyasa with Julie - This class was supposed to cater to all levels, but for I felt uncomfortable that I was unable to do the more advanced moves.
-Wednesday 5:30pm Warrior Yoga with Padma. Warrior Yoga is more like a barefoot cardio workout that uses jump ropes, stairstepping and quickly repeated movements. Some people might like this, but be forewarned! I'd rather take a cardio class at a regular gym while wearing running shoes.
With all that said, I doubt I will be a regular at Yoga Mandala in the future. I went to these classes over the winter holidays, so I was able to check out some of the weekday classes. However, there aren't many options for people like me with a 9-6 work schedule since there aren't many early morning classes (i.e. starting at 6:30 or 7am). -
Review from rosylen m.
Oakland, CA
11/21/2007
Yoga Mandala was the first place I went to to take a yoga class. And I have had no desire to go anywhere else. Ever. It is a calm, peaceful warm spot on bustling Telegraph Avenue.
I've been to a few different teachers' classes, but I have to say that I heart Jessica Ezra Patri's classes! She's a fabulous teacher especially for beginners (like me)--her instructions are clear, she can manage a class with novices and experienced folks without anyone getting lost or bored, she is patient and she just has this positive, welcoming energy about her that makes going to her class a joy. But don't take my word for it. Take a class and you'll see for yourself. -
Review from Ashley S.
Los Angeles, CA
8/2/2010
Great location, nice and respectful staff and teachers, awesome shop in the front, and most importantly, well-rounded and awesome classes!
I went to a beginning hatha yoga class; I'm not a beginner, perse, but haven't practiced in a long while. The class was taught in such a way that it was challenging because the instructor gave multiple options to push each pose further, but also accomodating of true beginners and people with injuries. The integrated chant approach was AWESOME. I've never done multiple chants before in a class and while at first I felt a little silly, it really contriubted to the overall environment.
After class, I felt so peaceful and revived, certainly not only because of the yoga itself but the ambiance of Yoga Mandala as well. Loved the class and plan to go back often!
There's also a great new student 3-class pass for only $30 ...excellent value! And students only pay $12/class. -
Review from Evelyn G.
San Francisco, CA
2/21/2009
FYI: having never done yoga, this is not a review of their yoga classes, only of their bodyworkers.
I've gotten maybe 6 or 7 massages here over the last couple years, and every one has been fantastic. It's reasonably priced (some of the practitioners post specials on Craigslist), soothing atmosphere, and the CMTs take their work very seriously. This is a place where you are very unlikely to get the therapist's rote 1-hour massage routine, and actually have bodywork tailored to what's bothering you. Yoko is the most recent person I've seen (and the only one who's name I'm not spacing on), and she was, like the others, great.
Their hours and location aren't super convenient for me, which is a shame, but this is a great place to score a CMT who is still stoked about healing through massage (not beaten into jaded resignation after clocking a billion spa hours with clients who all want the same mind-numbing massage). -
Review from mysticonnie w.
Alameda, CA
11/27/2007
I love this studio! I've checked out lots of other studios in the area, but this one is the one I'll remain loyal to.
The reception and waiting area is warm and welcoming. You can sip tea, browse the bookstore and listen to CDs while you wait. The front practice room has a cherrywood floors and a gorgeous altar that is usually strewn with flowers and candles that the teachers are always happy to talk about. When you leave, there's usually Prasad (sweets) to nibble on.
David M., the senior teacher, possesses a wealth of knowledge about the history of yoga and its poses. He's a master of alignment and will kick your core into submission with his pilates background. Plus, he'll "trick" you into poses you never thought you could maneuver yourself into. The only problem is that once you're there, you might have problems holding it as you're giggling away at his anecdotes or descriptions of various poses.
For a vigorous workout, Thomas M. will make you sweat and possibly cause your eyes to pop out when you see what he's got in store.
I only wish they would offer a separate changing area, though I've seen people sneak into empty treatment rooms to do so. Also, I wish that I could get off work earlier so I could go to the evening classes more often! -
Review from J J.
Oakland, CA
2/24/2011
I've got to be honest....this place really is not my style. I did, however, want to leave a review for one reason. And that is Sumanasa. She is a really lovely person and someone who is clearly passionate about yoga. She is honest with her students and has a big heart and a sweet smile. I encourage taking her classes if you attend this place.
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Review from Laurence W.
Oakland, CA
12/20/2010 2 Check-ins Here
Yoga Mandala is a less pricey option compared to Namaste Yoga in Rockridge. I've only been twice, so I haven't yet cracked the code on which teachers work best for me -- the two I have tried were fine, but probably not my speed in the long run. Space is a little tight, and the lighting is a little darker than I might prefer, but all in all Yoga Mandala seems to be a high quality, reasonably priced studio.
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Review from Lauren R.
Berkeley, CA
9/2/2010
First off, I am in love with the scent of this studio. It's so just right (for my nose), and I'm a big sneezer, so that's saying something.
I got a 30 days/$30 dollars deal that I started using right after relocating to Berkeley, all of 3 weeks ago! I've found the instructors charming, helpful and funny. I love that there are regular schedules and a decent number of classes in the day - I can take a vinyasa class after work every afternoon, for the same length of time (I like some regularity in my life because I am uptight; hence the yoga). The studio is nicely lit and has a calming ambiance, which is a great change coming from Crunch Union Square yoga classes (always a race to get in and get out). I loved the classes I had there, and I'm enjoying the teachers here - Sean Feit, David Moreno & Isaac Milder all have different personalities, but are each awesome in their own ways. I was hesitant at first, given that there is a strong SERIOUS YOGA vibe when you walk in the door, with books and courses and all that stuff but I've realized this is available for your personal edification, should you choose to follow that path. Who knows, maybe you will? That being said, be prepared to chant. Or don't, I think they're ok with that too. I don't get any kind of THIS IS THE RIGHT WAY TO DO YOGA, RAR, RAR, RAR feeling from any of the classes. If you're looking for a studio where you can feel good about practicing the way your body allows you to practice and have some fun playing with that, then I'd strongly recommend trying it out. Anyway, you don't have to worry about any of that, because you can have a lot of fun. And woah! It's a good workout. Think, core focus. Which means abs. Ouch (in a great, delicious, I'm doing good for my body kind of way).
Sort of pricey, but they have options. Plus, they have massages, which may or may not be great! And they do a lot of other great stuff, which I have yet to try because there are only so many hours in a week. -
Review from jess o.
2/17/2009
An excellent studio. I used to live nearby and went daily. Now I live in the city and barely make it in once a year. Wonderful instructors, great bodywork, relaxing atmosphere. Many classes available and excellent workshops.
When I began going there, most of the instructors did not go by their Sanskrit names so I find it a bit confusing to remember who is who. I really enjoy the classes taught by Noah, David Moreno, and Jessica Ezra. -
Review from Aaron M.
Berkeley, CA
7/4/2008
I've been to a lot of yoga studios including most in the area - many classes at 7th heaven, Namaste, Vara, and Yoga Kula for example. This space is easily the most beautiful, calming and enjoyable. That's not a knock on everywhere else, but the main yoga room at Mandala is in a league of its own.
Of course the practice is about the people, and I find the level of teacher here consistently terrific. David Moreno is a particular favorite - great energy and the right balance of challenging practice and laughter. Thomas Murphy is also a favorite. -
Review from whitestar s.
Berkeley, CA
7/11/2011
not. a. big. fan. I think their spiritual/chanting hoohas are a waste of time. I paid to do yoga...not to chant and be lectured about the Hindu ways of doing things. The instructors were not friendly and atmosphere is super stuffy and yuppy. Not to mention, the class times are the most inconvenient times ever...9:30am? 5pm? Seriously? I'm a student and I barely could make those times...I wonder how the people with real jobs can make it... My husband and I only went because we purchased groupons for this place. I have not had good luck with yoga groupons!
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Review from Sri L.
Berkeley, CA
4/7/2007
I heart Yoga Mandala for so many reasons.
Preggers yoginis have the wonderful benefit of the prenatal yoga program. I have found these classes to be helpful as my body slowly transforms. Moreover, it has been a wonderful place to connect with other new mothers.
In fact, the studio has a really amazing community presence. I've made many friends through the studio...not just in yoga classes, but also in meditation and philosophy classes. I appreciate this studio's dedication to its tradition. For instance, classes in Sanskrit as well as Texts of the Yogic TRadition help round out the physical practice and help yogis take their practice "off the mat." -
Review from Dana D.
Oakland, CA
9/26/2010 8 Check-ins Here
After a 5 + year hiatus from yoga, I was a bit nervous going to my first class, but it was refreshing to have such a positive experience from the moment I walked through the doors of Yoga Mandala. Both instructors (Isaac and David) for the Hatha 1-3 classes that I've taken have been awesome. I look forward to going here 3-4 times a week so I can move my way up to the more advanced classes!
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Review from Nancy R.
Oakland, CA
3/5/2007
As an aesthetic snob (i'll admit it) the thing I love about yoga mandala is that it is so beautiful...slate tile floors, brazilian cherry, bamboo, beautiful balinese doors etc...when you walk in its relaxing just to be there. it feels very nourishing, and the instructors have that same effect. I like the classical nature of the studio, that the lineages that brought us Yoga are honored and that the tradition is maintained as a spiritual path and not just a good workout (which you get as a bonus.)
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Review from Yvonne J.
Berkeley, CA
10/11/2009
If you are a christian and think your just going to do some yoga run! I do not believe God would want you in a place praying to statues.I want to practice yoga, I love yoga, but i will not bow to the gold elephant with many arms and legs.
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Review from catherine b.
Berkeley, CA
1/26/2009
Yoga Mandala is a Berkeley institution, one of the best yoga studios you'll find around here, with a lot of good teachers who really know their poses and their breathing. This place isn't always for me because the yoga is in many ways very spiritual -- every class I've attended begins with several Sanskrit chants, the teachers mostly go by their adopted Sanskrit names, and there is a beautiful shrine with a statue of Shiva in the main studio room. However, for some this is very appealing, and I recognize that for many teachers and students yoga can't and shouldn't be separated from Hindu spirituality. So, even though my own personal approach to yoga may be somewhat different from those of the studio owners, I try to respect and be harmonious with their intentions while I'm there. I've gotten nothing but good teaching, kindness, and respect in return. I especially like going to a Hatha class here once in a while to brush up on good alignment and breathing. As other Yelpers have said, Thomas and David are both great teachers, as is Jessica (though she's on maternity leave right now).
The only real down side here is the price -- this is a great studio and they charge a pretty fair market rate of $16 for a one class for a drop-in (although there are other packages, deals, and discounts). For me, that's pretty expensive, although I know they're worth it. -
Review from Barbara A.
Berkeley, CA
1/28/2011
They're strong on the religious aspects of yoga. I'm not interested in praying or being indoctrinated or expected to recite chants whose words I do not believe. They kind of foist it on you here and that is offensive.
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Review from Eden f.
Oakland, CA
6/24/2010
I've taken classes with several teachers at yoga Mandala and they all seem to have a pretty unique approach--sometimes a little too much talking for me, but I still like the way the teachers try to integrate the philosophy into the practice and allow a space for meditation. The studios are really nice and the staff is friendly too.
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Review from patricia l.
Berkeley, CA
5/31/2010
Om Om Om....the spot to do YoGa in Berkeley. The teachers overall tend to lean towards a more spiritual approach(which I prefer) to the discipline rather than the typical American aerobic. approach. The space is beautiful and the people are very friendly. A bit pricey but well worth it. Try checking out David Moreno's class if you are a beginner or looking for a vigorous/gentle balanced class. Lily Dwyer teaches an amazing Vinyassa class too. However, the class can be packed at times so plan on arriving early to get a good spot.
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Review from Angi C.
San Francisco, CA
5/28/2007
having moved between berkeley, sf, and menlo park in the past 5 years, i've tried a lot of yoga studios and this is definitely my favorite. now that i live in sf, i sadly never get to come here.
i usually stick to the vinyasa/hatha flow classes because i like the workout and all the vinyasa/hatha instructors here are great (david m, amy k, jessica e). they usually talk a little bit about the philosophy of yoga and do a small amount of chanting, but they don't beat you over the head with it. i prefer classes in the main room with the beautiful hardwood floor. lots of yoga books to browse through and tulsi tea to sip on if you show up early for a class.
oh and they have student discounts too! -
Review from Jessica D.
Oakland, CA
4/27/2009
I absolutely love this place. I have been coming here for their pre-natal program. Most yoga studios don't do as many classes for us pregnant mamas, and yoga mandala offers two during the week and a third will be starting up in May. Both Jessica and Uma are wonderful, the studio and atmosphere is calming and it has been a refuge for me during my pregnancy. Thank you for being here yoga mandala!
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Review from Henry L.
Oakland, CA
7/2/2009
Yoga Mandala is a truly wonderful place for yoga. I have been taking classes here since September 2005, and I love it! I am very happy with how my practice has developed over the years, and it has everything to do with the great teachers and environment at this studio. The main room is particularly awesome - perfect atmosphere for doing yoga.
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Review from Maria F.
Irvington, NY
8/9/2009
Yoga Mandala is a beautiful space for yoga, probably the best in the East Bay. Wonderful wood floors, pretty altars and incense, and quiet when you close the doors. The classes are invigorating and relaxing. Some of the instructors are good, but the bullshit factor at this place is a a little high for my tastes. I think Clarence's comments sum it up nicely: "FAIR WARNING: It will feel a little odd to address a teacher as Subramanya when you know for a fact that his real name is Larry." If you can overlook the we're-so-zen-and-mindful-and-enlightened aspect of Yoga Mandala, this is a great place to practice yoga. But it's a little much for me. Expect to do a whole bunch of chanting.
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Review from M C.
Los Angeles, CA
10/9/2009
I wish I could give this studio another star, but two bad experiences there have soured me on Yoga Mandala. Some of the classes I've taken there, namely those taught by David and Lily, I've really enjoyed. A yoga practitioner for over ten years, I'm pretty familiar with different types and teachers of yoga. Out of hundreds of classes taken over the years, two of the worst I experienced were taught by Hrimati (Susan) Fauman at Yoga Mandala.
My husband and I first attended her class last fall. We found it less challenging than we had hoped, but we continued to follow her teaching and modified only very inconspicuously, such as doing up dog when she instructed low cobra. Well, it seems she was extremely attached to her sequence, because she reprimanded us both by name multiple times for making minor adjustments. Again, we were not doing handstands while others were doing sitting poses; we were simply doing the more challenging version of some poses, but she made a point of chiding us as frequently as possible. We left the class feeling angry and upset, vowing never to go back to her class.
Fast forward 8 months or so, and we found ourselves in her class again (had blocked her name from our memories I suppose and didn't recognize it on the schedule). It didn't take us more than two minutes to realize whose class we were in, as after learning our names again, she commenced to scold us for modifying poses and even breathing, over and over again. We found ourselves looking at one another and rolling our eyes...not our idea of a yogic experience. Now I suppose we could've ignored her, but she just didn't let up. It's one thing to offer a suggestion, such as, "While Ujayi breath may feel good, why don't some of you try a more natural breath for now." But it's another to say, "So and so, you shouldn't be doing Ujayi breath. It's too heat-building, and that's not our intention right now." OVER AND OVER AND OVER AGAIN. She didn't let up, whether it was about our breath, our movement, whatever. WE WANTED TO BREATHE DEEPLY; it was the only class we could take the entire week, and breathing certainly does not disturb those near us. And we WANTED to do upward facing dog after a couple low cobras, but no, SHE didn't want us to modify the least bit, to make it our own practice. We felt like little kids being scolded by their mother. If she had come to speak to us privately, we would have been more receptive, yet would've had the opportunity to say that we were still following her teaching but needed more stretch and a little heat. But Susan lacks tact, and prefers the humiliation route, over something completely inconsequential.
Note: she did not single out anyone else.
And something else. She calls downward facing dog mountain pose. Mountain pose is tadasana, NOT Adho Mukha Svanasana.
Susan needs to lighten up a bit. While I'm sure she spends time thinking about and planning her sequence, she needs to realize that yoga is personal for EVERYONE, not just her. Not every student will come into her class needing just what she is prepared to teach, so she should be flexible and allow them to make minor adjustments that are not distracting to others, as most teachers encourage. Just because someone knows how to do something does not mean they know how to teach it. Perhaps she needs to spend some time learning how to be a teacher, and let go of taking adjustments personally. We left that second class angry - again - and both said that we had been thinking if she had said one more thing to us, we were ready to say aloud, "This is MY practice, Susan, not yours. Please lay off." Yes, not very loving, but then again, neither is she. Her negativity fostered the same in us. Sad, but true.
And so, our search for our favorite teacher in the Bay Area continues... -
Review from Renee S.
Oakland, CA
8/31/2007
Beautiful studio, fabulous teachers (who teach great classes but don't take themselves too seriously), good atmosphere, friendly staff, and a great online system to check whether a teacher is teaching a class or if there is a sub.
