In the Studio

It's a Monday, and that always makes me quite aware of the school things I need to do. So today's post serves two purposes - it is something I have created, and it is most likely the beginning to my 20 page yoga paper due in less than a month. I hope you enjoy it.


Yoga can be and is practiced in every setting imaginable, but there is something special about a dedicated studio. The light is soft and inviting, setting a meditative tone. The air is usually warm, sometimes even heated to add intensity to a practice. Space is well used in a studio, with a large open area surrounded by the tools of yoga. On one side is shelving holding colorful mats, rolled up and waiting to be used. At another side is a cabinet holding bolsters and cushions of various sizes to add softness to a restorative practice. Beside that cabinet are straps and soft blocks used to modify and personalize practice. The front wall is entirely mirrored, both helpful and distracting in practice.

Before a class begins, a teacher puts on music. The type varies from nature sounds to soft sitar to Bob Marley. Each choice is a reflection of the teacher and the style that class is going to follow. The music sets the tone before the class begins, and will be a constant reminder for tone and focus throughout the practice. Light fragrances filter through the air. Spicy jasmine and earthy sandalwood mingle and give the studio a truly "yogic" feeling. The scents are both invigorating and relaxing, the perfect mix.

People begin to arrive. They roll out their colorful mats and sit down, chatting. Some stretch their wrists or hips, or other places that are particularly sore or tight, in preparation. The studio room warms with the added body heat, and the yogis know it will only get warmer - that will help their practice. The teacher walks to her mat and everyone follows her lead, standing with hands together at heart center with eyes closed, just breathing. The practice has begun.


-Kat