Let it Flow

Today I had the opportunity to take a class at Roslindale Yoga in Roslindale, Massachusetts. I’ve been wanting to get there for some time. A few times per week they offer a yin/restorative class that just sounds so good. Yesterday I finally had some time to check it out.

The studio is located at 4155 Washington St in Roslindale. Washington St is a narrow, busy road and you probably wouldn’t expect to see a yoga studio there. Once I stepped inside it was like I entered into another dimension. The street noise dissipated and the inside was clean and bright definitely awakening my senses.

I first tried the door and it was locked! Roslindale isn’t that convenient so I was slightly perturbed as I twisted the door knob a few times. As I turned to walk away I heard “hello”. I turned around to see a women and I asked her if there was class. She said yes, apologized for the door and let me in.

Physical Space
The entrance takes you right into a waiting/sign in area and mini-store (variety of yoga-related products and clothing available.) There are plenty of windows and walls painted white to let lots of light into the room. Plenty of space available for coats and shoes as well.

To the right of me were the doors leading into the yoga room. I walked in and instantly felt comfortable. The room is plain and simple: white walls with simple pictures lining a shelf, no windows, soft lighting and a new looking wood floor. It was clean with no distractions. The room probably holds 20 people - it wasn’t all that big.

In the back are changing rooms and a bathroom.

It was a clean and quiet retreat in the middle of an otherwise busy area.

The class
Fridays class was yin/restorative and the instructor was Erin. She was very good - knowledgeable, soft and offered great instruction. She demonstrated and then walked around to make sure we were comfortable and performing postures the right way.

A yin/restorative class utilizes lots of yoga props - blocks, straps, blankets, bolsters - this studio offered plenty of props.

The class was so relaxing. Using the props to support me in every postures allowed me to completely relax - almost to the point that I didn’t feel like I was doing anything! Very different than the typical yoga classes I encounter. And I needed the change. At times I felt as though I might fall asleep. Postures are held for a period of time (minimum 3 minutes, sometimes longer) to allow for a deep release through the hips and back.

At the end, after final relaxation I got up and my entire back body felt so light. The subtle movements and support really enabled me to relax the muscles in my body and release tension. I could feel the tension had left my body by the way my back felt - flexible and free.

I wish the studio wasn’t so far away because I would love to get there more often. Many of the yin classes closer to home don’t fit my schedule. Friday at 10am in a yin/restorative class is a perfect way to end the week.

The studio also offers a yin/restorative on Monday nights and Saturday morning.

The details
Roslindale Yoga Studio
4155 Washington Street, Roslindale
Cost: $15 to drop in, passes are available.
Classes are offered 7 days a week. Specialty workshops scheduled as well. Website holds all the details.

If you are in that area and looking for a change of pace, check out the classes at Roslindale Yoga. They offer a variety of classes to suit a variety of people. Check them out!

Been there? What was your experience?