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I started practicing at The Ashram right before New year's and just used my 10 visits with the groupon deal I had. I loved attending class so much, I plan to continue to practice here. I think I'm rather particular about my practice. I want strong guidance and a teacher that challenges my body and mind. The Ashram meets all of those needs. The classes are HOT and you will be challenged just by holding postures. You'll gain strength and each teacher I've had helped me adjust my postures to gain the most benefit. I took mostly the power yoga classes and felt amazing afterwards. I'm not sure I ever actually made it through an entire class with out having to take a break. But, like I said, it's a challenge for body and mind. I loved all of the teachers but my favorite class was the 8 a.m. On Sunday. While I loved Gary's 10 a.m. On Saturday it was a bit crowded for my style. If you plan to go to that class, arrive early. Just a note about the studio because I've been impressed with the cleanliness, hospitality and friendliness. Everyone is so inviting and friendly. The teachers know your name and ask you how you feel. Like I said, just writing this review made me miss my practice at The Ashram and reminded me I must go back soon.

The Ashram is a transformational place. If you're looking to really connect with yourself and find balance in your life, this is the place to go. They teach you that yoga is just a breath exercise and how to use breath as a tool to transcend life's struggles. Each instructor is unique and has something new to teach you. I have tried many different hot yoga methods all over the country and the world, quite frankly, and this is my absolute favorite of all.

Best hot yoga studio I have been to, the only studio that practices with more intense static hold power yoga, where the class moves together. All other studios seem to push this ridiculous speed yoga during power classes, and nobody is in sync. When you are part of a synchronized class you can really feel the energy in the room.

Incredible teachers. Love the location and fellow students have always been very warm and welcoming to me who's pretty inexperienced. Highly recommend.

If you want the real deal, this place is the place to be. 1st of all- amazing studio, from the lobby to hallway to bathroom, to yoga room. The heat is so consistent. I felt like a million bucks after Gary's class. This man is so gifted at the practice and art of teaching, along with his wife, Claudia. I am so amazed at the grace, the strength and the love these two have for their guests and yogis. It's like a family. 2nd, After 3 classes, I feel stronger, mentally and physically and have found the best on the Eastside. Well worth it. 3rd- They're so friendly, warm, welcoming, studio is clean, and the classes are catered to all levels. I left feeling so alive. Super challenging but not defeating. GO!!!!

Best Hot Yoga Studio around! I see a lot of complaints about how "Hot" it is here. It's called "Hot Yoga" for a reason! Make sure you are Hydrated! I love this place!

I started doing yoga in 2003 at a gym I used to go to that has now closed. I didn't realize it at the time, but what we were doing was a Bikram series, but the room was just warm. That was a great way to start. After that gym closed, I found no other yoga that was as beneficial to what ails me. So I started doing a regular hot Bikram yoga at a regular Bikram studio. I'm not a believer in the really hot, no matter what they try to tell you about detoxing via sweating or it being a challenge to deal with the heat. A challenge in dealing with heat stroke is something I will pass on. I am a believer in it needing to be good and warm, but not so hot that you can't really work the majority of the poses as a challenge in strength, flexibility, and concentration; and not just in bearing the heat. I started going to The Ashram in 2008, first in Kirkland and now in Bellevue. It is the best studio I have found, and I've been to a lot. I'm pretty much still a Bikram guy (or classic 75 minute, or whatever the name of it is now). The Ashram has some great teachers and their studios are very nice. I have found it to be too hot sometimes, both in Kirkland and Bellevue. I have found a lot of the power classes, which is what they are really known for, too hot. But I have figured out what teachers and what times. For Bikram, try Sean, Ms. Knapinski if she's teaching (can't remember her first name and may be butchering the spelling), or Gary, and stay to the side edges of the room in Bellevue if you can. In my experience, if the instructor is newly certified in Bikram, they believe in the too hot hot, and you will hear the same dialogue as if its Bikram recording that I first heard in 2003 (my apologies to the exceptions). Sean and Gary have a great way of putting the dialogue to give you a minds eye of what to do. For standing bow pulling, for example, that isn't a 50:50 kick and reach (the standard dialogue), I consider it a 90% kick with a rigid upper body right to the finger tips - when you are fully into it, keep both hands high as you can (heard that from Gary, and when I really push it, that is what I try to do). I've learned a lot of those non-standard tips from instructors here, they really make a difference, and those are the master instructors you pay for. Yoga is expensive, at least to me, and The Ashram has increased prices since opening the Bellevue studio. But it is in line with other studios. The price is part of the reason I don't want to mess around with instructor that has less yoga experience than I do. You are an instructor to take me someplace I haven't been before. You can find the good instructors here, but may take a little trial and error. Makes me feel great, give me a good attitude - at least when it isn't so hot I can't sleep at night afterward and sweat for the next two days. And those people that do power 5+ days a week? I don't get it.

I really disliked this place a lot, let's begin with the price which I was told something on the phone and when I went in there the price was higher than I was told and they tried to get out of it by getting me lost in the number calculations which made no sense. I found the owner to be pretty Rude and unfriendly which in the few other yoga facilities I had been to they were all the very opposite. Also rules, too many stupid rules to be told day one to be turned off. Such as "do not take anymore water breaks other than the ones your instructors give you, so we don't distract others" really!? I take water when I want and need in 110 degree working out temperature! Or at least every where else is like that! Overall not a friendly place.

The environment a little too hot. But the instructors are very friendly. Overall 3 stars is enough.

There is something very special going on at Ashram Yoga. Both teachers and students are extremely serious about the pursuit of true yoga. It's not a place where people are just looking for a workout (although you will see many inspiring hard-bodied 60 year old women who look like 25 year olds). You could say the studio attracts "die-hard" yogis -- people who train and honor both their bodies and minds and who are exceptionally self-aware. I feel privileged to practice with such advanced yoga practitioners guided by class A instructors. Sometimes half the class are Ashram-trained yoga teachers themselves. It's hot, I'll admit I used to have a harder time with that (I'm particularly sensitive to heat), but I have learned to keep my body hydrated, so that I can handle it. Drinking more water has transformed my practice, so I don't have to lie down as often. But it's fine to lie down at any time in this studio and you're encouraged to do so. As long as you do a resting pose with presence, it is still correct practice. It is in an extremely convenient location, and when you're inside there is a wonderful feeling of being at home, and a sense of community. The place is thoroughly and regularly cleaned, and everyone takes good care of the place as if it were their own. People really are dedicated in their practice and to the studio. It is a trusting, supportive environment. I was surprised to see a couple low reviews, but the "complaints" seem pretty minor; splitting hairs over a $40 Groupon which is already an amazing bargain, or giving up after one class with a pushy instructor and chatty classmates (which is rare at the Ashram, btw). That would annoy me too and it has only occurred once out of 100+ times I've been there. As for the heat, my advice to anyone new who is struggling is to up your water intake--keep a bottle by your desk and sip water all day every day. It's a different experience to practice hydrated. Also try out a few other teachers to find the ones that have the most compatible style with your taste. Then see how you feel after a couple of weeks. Definitely don't miss Gary's class. I'm grateful I found this place. It's not easy but it is extremely rewarding.

I have been going to Ashram for two years now. The teachers are phenomenal and I have gained so much benefit from the Hot Power classes. I love and crave the intense heat along with enjoying the internal focus needed to improve in ones practice. I no longer have carpal tunnel issues, have been able to maintain toned muscles and even increased my flexibility. As an entrepreneur, I have gained more inner peace and better coping skills to every day life stresses. I find myself tapping into the many mantras shared by the skilled Ashram yogis. I like not having music and simply focus on breath and the voice of my teacher that day. Not only do the instructors really care but the support and development of special friends have made Ashram a mandatory part of my week. The Art of the Art is to Show No Struggle. Namaste!

I have been practicing at the Ashram for about 9 years now. Prior to my experience here, I was practicing at home and reading about Yoga. That was the extent of my yoga. Since being at the Ashram, Gary, his wife Claudia and the other amazing instructors have changed my life. Yoga is not about strength, it is not about flexibility. (Albeit I am stronger and more flexible than I've been in a very long time.) But through my journey at the Ashram and Gary's instruction, I now have a deeper understanding of my practice and of my body. Yoga is breath, yoga is consciousness, yoga is being present for the time you are on your mat, it's respecting your body and your practice. It's for you and no one else. I love leaving the studio after a class and taking that energy, that feeling with me everywhere I go and into everything I do! It has transformed me into a healthier, and happier person! Thank you Ashram! Not only the instructors and instruction, but the people in that room who energize me every time I attend! Namaste and BIG LOVE!

A few years back I was broke and floundering and could not afford Hot Yoga. Gary let me Karma yogi (clean etc) in exchange for free yoga for several months. I really appreciated that, It is very hard to ask for help and practicing yoga is just what I needed to keep my head up. Things going much better in my life now and it was great to have the help when I really needed it. Great studio. Thank Ashram!!

I have been doing hot yoga for one year now (5 days per week), in my college town and figured I'd find a new studio when I came back home from school. I could not have been more disappointed with this one. Firstly, The room is way too hot. I typically practice in 110 degree rooms and only take breaks during designated times. However, during this class I kept having to stop to cool down. It was impossible to get in the zone and even enjoy myself. I usually lay in corpse pose for several minutes after class is over but I had to rush out due to the ridiculous heat. The floor is literally burning hot and it smells absolutely terrible. Secondly, I did not enjoy the way the instructor led class. She was so pushy with everyone doing the same thing at the exact same time. Yoga is all about doing what is right for your body and following your breath. The instructor also NEVER SHUT UP. Another reason why it was impossible to get in the zone and meditate. The class was so boring, especially with no music and her constant talking. All I could think about was how much I wanted this hour of my life to end. Thirdly, before class began several people were talking in the hot room. People were having full on conversations even though it is supposed to be quiet. I can understand saying something short and brief if it was really important but chatting about this and that before class is incredibly rude when others around you are trying to meditate. I couldn't stand the atmosphere here. So many fellow "yogis" had so little respect for those around them. Lastly, the flow of the class was horrible. She poorly transitioned from pose to pose and rushed through several difficult balancing postures. Worst 20 bucks I've spent in a while.

The best hot yoga studio in the Northwest hands down! From the moment you enter the lobby, your greeted always by a friendly smile 🙂 Every teacher is extremely knowledgeable in creating an experience that will leave you refreshed, focused and energized. Always amazed how the yogis have such great studio ethics and respect for the teachers. This was my first hot yoga studio I ever went to and at the end of my first power class, I knew from that moment this was going to become my second home. Found myself improving not just physically but mentally and over all life style. What can i say...oh yeah, i was just happier and I know you would be also. So give a try! The different styles of class offered at the ashram will keep your body balanced, focused or even upside down (in the Yang class ;-)) I love learning new things about my breath, body and mind as each teacher knows just the right thing to say or touch to get me to where I need to be. In end, my whole life changed for all for best and who knew all it took was 1 step through the doors of The Ashrams. I highly recommend this place to anyone new or experienced to come by and get your yoga on 🙂 see you there!

I visited the Ashram Yoga studio today. I was a little nervous since I hadn't done yoga for about 7 years, but my experience was... WONDERFUL!!! It doesn't matter if you're a beginner or more advanced, the sequences of poses flow seamlessly, are thoughtfully designed, and are as challenging as you want them to be. Luba (the instructor) was clear and soothing and obviously very knowledgeable. Loved her. I left feeling revived (and drenched). Even though I lift regularly and do extensive cardio almost every day, I was more than a little exhausted from the awesome full-body workout. Make sure to hydrate beforehand because it gets hot. Go try it. Seriously, like right now.

Ashram is hands down the best method of yoga out there (and I've tried a lot, worldwide). I'll admit, at first I was a little skeptical of their method of simultaneous class flow, consistent sequence, and ultra hot room. But I have come to love Ashram and appreciate the total transformation of body and mind their classes offer. ALL the instructors are amazing, but I especially love practicing with Gary, Claudia, Davin, and Shannon.

. I have NEVER had a yoga instructor yell at me for stopping to drink water, until I came here. This is hot yoga! It's 120 degrees in the studio and isn't yoga about listening to YOUR OWN body? All the power classes follow the same series of positions every time and it gets incredibly boring. I have gone to quite a few yoga studios and this is one I will never go to again. The dressing room never felt very clean either, which is something that bothers me when I have to walk around bare foot. My worst experience there was during a class when a ceiling fan fell on a student!!! He was fine but still, a little maintenance would be a very good thing!!! I am actually shocked there are not more negative reviews.

I have been practicing for the last few years, and in that time tried quite a few studios until I found my yoga home. In the time I was groupon hopping, I tried this studio because it's walking distance from my house. I had high hopes because the location was convenient, but after trying a few classes I have zero interest in returning. The facility itself is nice and the girls at the front and the teachers were actually pretty great, but I just do not enjoy practicing here. First reason: It's WAY TO HOT IN THERE. I have been practicing hot yoga for a long time and can even hang in a 112 degree room doing a hard power class, but the dry heat at Ashram makes my nose hurt and gives me head aches. The floor literally burns your feet when you walk into the room and set up your mat. I catch myself thinking about how hot it is the whole time and having to take breaks often instead of enjoying some Zen time with a clear head and a good workout. Second: I think that the groupons Gary puts out have ridiculously short expiration terms. When I compare the groupons at Ashram with all the other studios in the area.. even if you purchase the 10 or 20 class option you only have a month or two to use them. Most studios will give you up to 6 months to use 20 classes. So when I purchased a 20 class pass and only came twice, I believe I wasted my money. CHECK YOUR EXPIRATION DATES IF YOU ARE CONSIDERING A GROUPON. Third: Terrible customer service. When I emailed the studio to see if they would be willing to honor the 20 classes I purchased, they told me they would give me one free class to make up for it. I may have been able to hang and acclimate to the intense heat if I had 20 classes to do so, but after bad customer service and the insane heat, I decided to move on. I have now found a studio that I'm enamored with and hope you find one that you love to. Hope this review helps for people considering this studio. Check out Bala or Get Zen. Those are two studios I fell in love with. And no, I am not a teacher or owner at either, just want to help people find their happy yoga home, too.

I have already recognized that yoga is not my thing, especially in a hot hundred-and-something degree room. Stretching however is amazing and something I need to be doing more of! My friend introduced me to Yin Yoga that is a "deep stretching yoga in a meditative environment", its 90 minutes and in a warm (not hot) room. I am now obsessed with this class and the instructor, Mel is amazing. He has a calm soothing voice that helps you focus. This class is perfect for me, the temperature is comfortable and the yoga stretches are just enough yoga for me not to hate it. This facility is very clean and calm. The changing area for women is decent sized but does get crowded. There are cubbies available for your stuff and showers. They also have yoga mats and towels available for use. (My 1/30 for November)

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The Ashram Yoga - 64 Reviews - Yoga - 12637 NE 85th St ...