New York City continues to give me so much joy. A few weeks ago, I was visiting a friend on the Upper East Side and saw this beautiful door front for a yoga studio called Pure Yoga. I inquired within about doing a class but learned it was membership only (no drop-ins).
Then, last week, a dear friend and kickass filmmaker put in her Google Buzz a link for a complimentary yoga session at yes, you guessed it, Pure Yoga. (My life is filled with synchroncity & magical moments). I was especially delighted that the class would be early as I prefer to exercise before the day has begun and I can talk myself out of going.
My friend received the information about the free yoga class from Racked NY which has a plethora of special deals for NYCers. I will now start to follow them on Twitter. (@rackedny)
Attending the free class was as easy as calling the day before and leaving my name. This morning, I was there bright eyed, bushy tailed for a 6am class. I normally take Anusara classes at Virayoga in Soho but was enthused for something new. This was Hot Power Yoga (not to be confused with Bikrama which I am told has a warmer room and maintains a certain order of poses). The space is huge for a New York yoga studio and really elegantly designed. I believe it is three floors with several studios.
This class was only an hour long but I must admit it felt like three. I’m sure you’ve heard the saying “your life is on the mat”. Meaning whatever you experience in yoga class represents your life. The class felt longer because it was new, I didn’t know the other “kids”, I wasn’t familiar with this type of yoga, the guy next to me was SO much better… You get my point. Every insecurity was heighten and that was why I adore yoga so. Our instructor, Elitza Datcheva, was wonderful and reminded us that it was our practice. Not to compete. Prove. It was my opportunity to enjoy whatever and everything I was experiencing.
Before our practice began, she asked us to dedicate the practice to someone who we think of during the first days of Spring. I instantly thought of my Grandma (Auntie’s sister) and her love for tulips.
After class, I took advantage of their luxurious showers and chatted with some of the other ladies. I love the community of yoga practicioners. There was complimentary granola and juices. I received a quick tour and learn about the amazing number and variety of yoga classes available. Hatha. Iyengar. Anusara. Pilates. Jivamukti. Kundalini. Their list is extensive and can accomodate pretty much anyone’s schedule.
The yoga kicked my butt and I left rejuvenated.
Auntie’s Advice: comb through those emails and tweets from RackedRacked, The Skintand 8 Coupons
My father is also a fan of GrouponGroupon.
There are deals for everyone and they are all on Twitter. And you’ll be amazed at how easy it is to enjoy your champagne tastes with a beer budget in New York.