This was a level 2 class. Drop in daily nonmember prices are: $24, or 60 day 5 class pass for $110. The only reason I did not give this place a 5 star rating is that there was not enough of a warm up in the beginning, for my daughter who has trouble stretching; I did not have any problems personally. But the teacher, John, was awesome as he really went in-depth and explained the physiology, via a tailored response, to form questions. He then took us through a series of poses to make sure we understood his explanations. Throughout the session he monitored and adjusted or advised and also asked permission first. He also suggested and personally brought over, supportive devices such as an extra foam pad or bolster. What I also liked is that he only spoke when he had something to offer, and not endless "ego" chatter. I have been in some classes where the instructor just likes the sound of their voice and my brain goes numb. It is also really a "YOGA" class and not yoga on high speed, steroids in a boot camp setting, where everyone is outdoing the next person in their stamina, strength and flexibility. I am grateful to find a practice that is more introspective and calm as it used to be. YAY! =-D This studio has sufficient mats, pads, blocks, bolsters etc. Very inviting, clean and neat. Good day lighting. Wood flooring. Comfortable room temperature. I hate hot yoga classes! I do not believe in them! This was perfect! Also the staff was very friendly, calm and professional. We just stopped by for one class as we do not live there. Would have taken them up on their intro special though (below); "New Student Membership - 5 classes for $50 for 14 days If you haven't already taken advantage of our New Student Special - 5 classes for $50 valid for 14 days, click here to purchase. The pass is good for all of the ongoing classes - yoga, meditation, Tune Yoga, Spa Yoga, prenatal, kids - all of them!" read more

Oh this place sent me their monthly email a few days ago and all I could think was how much i want to go back! I don't live in bellevue anymore and don't want to drive that far for relaxation but it really would be worth it. I have taken their begining yoga class twice now from two diferent teachers and have loved it both times. I felt relaxed durring the classes and quite energized afterwards. Their begining classes are a fabulous introduction to yoga for beginners and are reasonably priced. Their studio rooms are equipped with beautiful hardwood floors, matts, curtained space, calm lighting and suspension walls. That's actually what sold me on this place was the suspension walls. You only do it once or twice in begining yoga but actually suspending from a wall and doing asana's is amazing, it makes your entire body feel new after you are done and yes you feel good. The staff are quite friendly and more tehn willing to work with you, I had a schedule conflict with a class once and they allowed me to drop in on that class later on. I would definitely go back here if i wasn't poor right now and could find a good calming playlist for the car on the way there and back. read more

I wish I liked this studio better because the class times and location are so convenient. But now that my unlimited month pass is over, I probably won't be back. The class pace is slow to the point where I feel like I'm barely getting a workout after an hour and fifteen minute class. Part of that is because there are frequent pauses to "center your mind" during class with a meditation. If you want more of a meditative experience than a physical workout, this place might work for you. Pro's: -3 rooms and many classes offered all day and evening -mats and props are provided (but see Con) -easy to find parking Con's: -the pace is slow -mats and props aren't washed after use - they go right back on the shelf -the focus is meditative vs. physical read more

I love this place! I was suffering from intense lower back pain (from karate and stress), as well as anxiety and some other health issues when I joined. I wanted to heal my body and emotions. I now have no lower back pain, a beautiful, simple and effective way to relieve stress, and I have made many lifelong friends. The yoga here is safe, fun and effective. It is straightforward and well taught. There are some fun classes too like Tune Yoga (with music) and Spa Yoga (for relaxation). If you can take a class with Aadil, he is funny and the best yoga teacher I have ever met! The meditation classes are my personal favorite, and if you can ever study with Savitri, take that opportunity! Her classes have helped me heal more than anything else in my life. She is honest, loving and kind. All the teachers I have been to are excellent. They are kind, helpful and well trained. The studios are swept clean after every class, and all the props are washed at regular intervals (yes even the mats!). The studio itself is cleaned several times a week, and the bathrooms sparkle. I love that they have fresh flowers all around the studio, and nice, uplifting colors. read more

Hands down the best yoga experience I've been. The prenatal yoga teacher Angelica and Erica are the most compassionate teachers I've seen! Not only do they provide customized poses for students at different stages of pregnancy, they pay attention to each person's general health and are super knowledgeable to send us things we could do at home. They genuinely care about each student's wellbeing and even give us recommendations on increasing breast milk output, protecting minerals and bone mass, etc. Anytime anyone has questions about poses they patiently spend time after class. The studio provides a lot of types of equipments we also get to use that you generally won't find at home. The cost of the class is on the expensive side but is one of the best investments I've made. read more

I'm the type of person that does not like to start something unless I know that it is worthwhile and not missing any components. This has it's pluses and minuses since I can tend to lean on the 'not starting" side too much and miss out on great experiences. Thankfully, when it comes to Yoga, this personality is a blessing because contrary to popular belief... there are so many components and things to be conscious of to insure your safety and well being. It is this trait of mine that led me straight to the Alive and Shine center. I was a bit taken back at first by the authenticity and integrity it exudes. The owners are truly masters of Yoga and it is reflected in the quality of the teachers and classes held there. Really a dream come true. If you want the best for your mind, body, and spirit, this is absolutely the place to go. They offer a wide variety of classes good for beginners and advanced students alike. I love the meditation aspect because again, I wouldn't feel good saying "I do Yoga" if in truth I'm only practicing the asana. I'm not interested in just dabbling in things, I want the fullness of the experience. It shows their intention is to honor and support all parts of us, not only our lovely bodies. As far as not being a good place to go if you want an active/workout vibe I'd disagree and recommend trying an Empower Hour class. I'm 23 and exercise on a regular basis and still got my butt kicked in the best way possible. Another class that really amazed me was the Spa Yoga. I walked out feeling like a brand new person. It was really unbelievable and nothing I've ever done has come close to how relaxed and wonderful I felt afterwards. On top of all of this I recently took their 200hr Teacher Training which completely changed my life for the better. It really helped me understand just how important Yoga is and the necessity of places like this to connect people to the depths of their being so we can heal our world. This studio is an absolute must if you're like me and sincerely want the best for yourself and all of life. My only complaint is that there's so much wisdom accessible to you, it can be hard to pace yourself and not be overwhelmed by it all. Just go at your own pace and take it one class at a time! ;) read more

I've been looking for a yoga studio on the east side since I moved here 13 years ago. Over the years, I've mostly experienced cliquish, trendy, self-absorbed places (which come & go, it seems) that didn't have time for me and that were nearly all focused only on the perfect pose. This studio breaks out of that stereotype. The physical classes (level 1 - 3) are based on the Iyengar tradition, with alignment being important and well supported. But they place a lot of emphasis on meditation and bring it into the "regular" yoga classes, too. I find this very helpful and more holistic than a typical hatha yoga class. They have a large staff and offer many classes each day, every day, at all levels, plus some specialty classes, like chair yoga and restorative. The variety and the timing options for classes help keep me motivated and it all fits into my schedule, even if my own calendar changes. The equipment is in good shape and is plentiful. But what I really appreciate about this studio is the other attendees. Everyone is warm & friendly & helpful. I've rarely experienced that at other studios. Here, people (of all ages) smile and say hello and they help each other gather props etc. Some people, even in the level 1 classes, are clearly very experienced, but there are no "show offs" and I don't get the feeling that there are teacher's pets, which is pretty common elsewhere. This studio seems very good for students new to yoga (or meditation) or in the early years of practice--or for those recovering either from trauma or years out of practice. I notice that they do not have many very advanced classes. If you are very advanced, you might prefer the teacher certification workshops and/or the private instruction. read more

I've never been so disappointed in a yoga class. I tried the prenatal yoga, drove thirty minutes each way to do about three down dogs in 90 minutes. It was an insult to pregnant women. Don't call it yoga if it's like a geriatric stretching class. So sad I wasted my whole morning, no workout and minimal stretching. Will not return after that experience. read more

Alive and Shine practices calm, meditative yoga rather than the athletic yoga I am used to in Los Angeles. John, the teacher of the level 2/3 class informed us that his class was really level 2 and not too difficult. He was right, it wasn't too difficult. John was patient and clear in his instructions and asked that you not deviate from them. He circulated around the room to assist all students. I appreciated that he clearly demonstrated the positioning of the body. If you are looking for non-strenuous yoga with props this is the place for you. read more

Best guided meditation in the city from very gifted teachers. Savitri is is the real deal, a loving and enlightened teacher. Sandra is an amazing mediation teacher as well. read more

Love this place. The energy is great. They live what they preach and the yoga is amazing. I like the spiritual aspect and the meditation. Great when visiting from out of town. Will come here again. read more

This is my favorite Yoga studio in the Seattle area. I've been to about 15 studios in the area, but the quality of teaching of Alive & Shine surpasses the others. Their instructors are very well-trained with many completing 2000 hours of training. The atmosphere is very warm and inviting. They also teach authentic Yoga. The studio is also beautiful with a beautiful energy. I highly recommend to everyone. read more

Classes at ASC are some of the few yoga classes I truly love. Instructors at the studio truly pay attention to the details of the pose, not just leading you from one pose to another. You are welcomed by genuine smiles every time you are there. I would recommend this studio to anyone who wants to try yoga or deepen their practice. Actually this is the place I would send my parents to if they ever want to start learning because I trust them this much:) Meanwhile I understand the price is on the higher end of the studios in Seattle area, it is definitely worth it and dining out one less time will get you one beautiful class at ASC. read more

This is one of the best businesses I've ever encountered. Their authentic yoga is much more substantial than what I've found elsewhere, especially compared to the hot yoga places. These folks know what they're doing tailor the class to what I need, not what somebody decided decades ago that I needed. They're always loving and I feel better every time I visit. read more

I'm a yoga snob. Not because of any feeling of superiority, but because if it isn't done with the right alignment or intention, my body just feels terrible. So five stars for a yoga studio means a lot from me! I have literally never left this place without feeling significantly better - calmer, more energized, clearer, more engaged with life...it's a real oasis. Their prenatal classes are amazing too - they really helped me have a beautiful birth experience with my daughter. Thank you, teachers! read more

I love this studio! It's such a gem. I originally went here to try out Aadil's (the co-owner) class because he is a reputable yoga teacher but have fallen in love with the place and am really enjoying some of the other teachers as well. I just feel so welcomed and relived every time I walk in the door. The studios are very clean and lit by floor to ceiling windows, so it has a calming natural feel. It is really a sunny and sweet environment to practice. The teachers I've had seem knowledgeable but also approachable, my teacher told me they all have a minimum of 2000hr certification. And Its evident that they really know what they are doing. I go to Sandra's class and she has really helped me heal some running related injuries. They mostly teach alignment based asana so its great for people looking for cross-training, yoga therapy or increased strength, toning and flexibility. The asana they teach really helps open and lengthen my body, and ive found it a useful tool for cross-training, noticing a big difference in my running performance. My favorite discovery about this place though is the meditation program. The classes are totally accessible, they teach practical and useful techniques to help deal with stress and bring a feeling of well-being. Its made a big difference in my life. read more

I love this studio! I came here in 2003 totally stressed out from my job (to the point that I was having many different physical issues) and just after the first class I loved it as I felt better. I went regularly for many months and got much more relaxed and healthier as I learned about proper nutrition, meditation and of course, doing the yoga. Some people say the yoga classes are slow, but I found it depends on the teacher and your expectations. If you are looking for a sweaty high-impact type workout, this is not the place. If you are looking for a way to open, strengthen and heal your body while learning to love yourself in the process, this is the place. The meditation is beautiful and highly effective. Just as an example, I started playing soccer again after 22 years and the yoga helped me be open and strong enough to play, and the meditation helped me be so focused that I can pass really well and stay super focused in the game. It's incredible! The meditation has also helped me be a more loving person and be much less stressed as a mom. The owners are caring, wonderful people and the staff and teachers are well trained, kind and knowledgable. I had such a great experience that I decided to enroll in their teacher training program and became a yoga teacher myself, and my husband saw me change and heal so much he also became a student and now a teacher as well. To answer another review about cleanliness, this is by far the cleanest studio I've ever seen. They do wash their mats, blankets, props regularly, (even the belts!) and they have the whole place cleaned several times a week. On top of that, instructors sweep the floors after each class. If you don't want to use the mats there, just bring your own! I highly recommend this wonderful studio! read more

Alive and Shine Centers offers so many options to feel good. The asana classes are fun and my body feels stretched out and open afterwards. The meditation classes help me calm down from a stressful day at work and remember how to smile. The whole studio is so clean and bright. Everything is always in the right place. There are even snacks and supplements to buy that help me feel more healthy in my life overall. The little gifts and aromatherapy sprays they have in their retail section are just another bonus. It really is so much more than just a yoga studio. I am so grateful I found this place. It really fits my life. read more

THIS is the place for those aspiring towards a true yoga practice, as opposed to just getting some asana in...and even if that's all you want, it's still a great place. I noticed some other reviews felt that the classes were not physically intensive enough. When I first came upon Purna yoga, I thought the same thing, but I also couldn't deny how GOOD I felt after each class. So I kept going, and as I did, I realized that there is an integrity in the teaching that I have not found with any other yoga teachers in my 13 years of yoga practice. These teachers want to keep students safe, so that they may practice yoga that facilitates the rest of their lives- for as long as they live. They are not going to recommend more advanced poses until they KNOW that students are ready, and if you are a drop in student, they just don't know you well enough. THAT said. That said, I have had killer workouts here. As previously mentioned, it's all about integrity, and even in Mana's level 1 prep, I have received a great workout- not because the poses were so advanced or fast paced, but because I could sense the integrity of the teacher and her attention to the nuances of even simple poses, and so I gave those nuances my full effort. Also, the meditation is wonderful. Having come from an ashtanga background, I initially thought the meditation techniques were funny and not my "cup of tea"- but again as previously stated, I couldn't get past how good I felt afterwards. I know practice them regularly, and I like to visit Alive and Shine on a regular basis to keep my inspiration fresh. I regularly attend an affiliated studio near my home, but it is worth the 2 hour drive to visit Alive and Shine as regularly as possible. read more

I went to Alive and Shine because my wife suggested it as a way to deal with lower back pain. It's the first time I've ever been to a yoga studio in the U.S., although I did study yoga intensively in India 35 years ago. I took the "Healing Lower Back Pain Workshop" with John Davie. To be fair, I'm hideously inflexible (physically, though my wife might argue that I don't like change of any kind, but she's wrong about that) and surely yoga should be good for me. I figured I'd give it a try because I've been doing what the physical therapist told me to do for a year and, while it works pretty well, it hasn't banished the pain. Basically, when I lift my 38 pound bass speaker, or sleep on the ground, or sit in an unsupportive chair, my lower back hurts. I want to be able to do at least the first two things, so I'll work on it. John started the session, a scheduled 3 hours, with breathing and OM. Then he gave a lecture on the cause of lower back pain. "Fear and uncontrollability are the programs that we are dealing with in chronic lower back pain. The interververbral (sic) muscles tighten when your subconscious mind is in a state of fear or uncontrollability." That was part of his lecture. He handed it out, and then read it to us. He also read "The average person is ruled by others. They do what the TV tells them to do." One of my classmates said that her back hurts because someone ran into her when she was driving her car. She said it wasn't her fault. John said that if she had really been self aware she wouldn't have been in the accident. Clearly, my back should have started hurting more, because my conscious and subconscious mind isn't tolerant of this kind of metaphysical pap. But it didn't. And, by the way, the TV tells me to do a lot of things and I rarely do any of them. Maybe that means I'm not "average." John ran us through a series of asanas for the lower back, followed by six moves to open up the hips. He's right on about developing the musculature on the front of the abdomen and about the relationship between proper stance with regard to hips, knees and feet and the back. He's clearly a Yogi, though not quite up to the Yogi Bear standard, and I was impressed with his flexibility and mastery of the nomenclature. He put on a sales pitch for some of the products they sell for adding to your water to improve hydration. On the whole, though, that was my first and last time at Alive and Shine. I got an immediate headache from the aroma of the place. They sell all kinds of "essential oils," basically medicine show nostrums without the laudanum, and the place stinks of it. The religious element was way too heavy for me. I don't need to be lectured on metaphysics. I was looking for some moves I could practice at home, and the jury's still out as to whether John gave me anything that will actually work. read more

How refreshing to receive instruction for strengthening one's inner voice, rather than biceps and abs. The yoga taught here has a spiritual core, and works wonders for connecting one's intuition. I feel calm and centered after every class, and free from aches and pains. Highly recommended! read more

I've been coming to this studio for almost eight years. They offer a wide variety of yoga classes ranging from beginners to advanced students and I've taken many of them. The teachers are very caring and knowledgeable and really focus on teaching to the student's needs, which results in a different class every time. There are many times I've come to class exhausted and left walking on air. The meditation classes and workshops taught at the studio are very unique and have transformed my life in many ways. I have the tools I need to feel calmer and more in touch with myself all day long. Thank you Alive and Shine Center! read more

They offer great meditation techniques. Thank You!

I was aware of the wonderful energy of the studio the minute I walked through the door. I took 4 classes with Mana during a 2 week trial period and found her to be a skilled and talented teacher. Tonight I took a class with Zofia, another great teacher and so I have made the decision to became a member and continue to yoga classes at Alive and Shine Center. read more