*Don't buy a pass here, they no longer exist* Apparently this place is defunct and no longer exists in brick and mortar form, YET they still have a Mindbody Online portal that WILL accept your money for class passes, and continues to show that they're offering classes. Their listed business address is currently inhabited by a Yoga Garden/Moxie studio, and there is zero indication that I will get a refund of $50 for the pass I bought for a ghost studio. read more

I'm fairly new to SF and was looking for a good yoga studio in the area and came here due to the great Yelp reviews - they were very accurate! I had no idea this studio specialized in Iyengar yoga, nor had I ever practiced it so was slightly surprised - but in a good way. The classes are a much slower pace than the vinyasa classes I was used to from back in LA, and each pose is held in a much more precise, mindful way that provides instant pain and stress relief. The studio itself is HUGE and clean, with tons of props and mats to use. I scheduled myself for Larry's mixed class a few weeks in a row which has had a new substitute instructor, Justine, each week that I've gone. She is incredibly kind, helpful, spending a great amount of time with each student to correct their form or adjust as needed based on your needs/injuries etc. She even showed me how to use yoga stretch belts to support my back while working at the computer which has helped with debilitating back pain I've been experiencing. Just bought my second pack of classes and so glad I found Bija! read more

I signed up for a restorative yoga and sound healing with Amber and Jennifer. Lo and behold it was also Solstice which was a bonus. The studio is clean and comfortable and the two compliment each other very well. I am wishing I had purchased a CD from Jennifer. Her music was beautiful and her singing added a mystical quality. The yoga made a big difference in my well-being. Amber helped to adjust our poses and it made such a big difference in the ability to stretch especially my shoulders. They are a well stocked studio and there is no need to bring anything unless you like using your own stuff. read more

I love love love this place. After going to different yoga places, this place is outstanding. First, the classes are intimate and you never feel rushed or awkward. The size of the classes are small and the instructors will spend time with you so that you work on your form at your own pace. There are many different props (toys as I fondly like to call them) that will help you "blossom" into your poses. My favorite class is with Brian on Saturday mornings because his classes are fun, interactive, and I always feel physically and mentally relaxed and happier afterwards. He is very sweet and guides you so that you can open up and feel more "space" in your body. This place is ideal for people who may suffer certain injuries as it is geared toward techniques and not the flow of motion that is so popular in other types of yoga. It is also great for people who do not enjoy going to crowded sweaty yoga classes jam packed with people. read more

I wanted to like Bija, I really did. And maybe it's unfair to judge based on just one class, but that's what this review will be. When I walked in, a bit early for the weekday community class, the front desk person and the instructor were cleaning the studio. Clean = good in my book, so this was a plus. They were both friendly and said hello with a smile, and I felt welcomed to the studio. Then why only two stars you ask? Well, maybe I just don't like Iyengar, but I did not feel that the class did anything for me other than stretching. The room was a bit chilly, not once did I break a sweat, and I didn't feel like any of my muscles had been given a workout. I also did not like the stop-start-stop-start method to the class. We went back and forth to the equipment area at least five times during the class. For example: go get blocks, do pose, put blocks away and get chair, do pose, put chair away and get blocks again. It seemed a bit unnecessary to go back and forth so many times, in my opinion. In the instructor's defense, she warned me ahead of time that with my flow yoga experience this class would be quite different. She was correct, and sadly I doubt I'll be back to this studio. read more

This is the first place I've ever done yoga, so I don't have much to compare it to, other than what I've been told by people who have... Anyway, I really like it. I've been going for about a month now to the introductory classes on Tuesday and Thursday nights. The instructor, Beth, is great--really friendly, really attentive and willing to help you get the pose exactly right so that you're working all the right muscles but not hurting yourself. The classes are small, which is really nice (I have no interest in being packed in like sardines in a can--plus, as a former schoolteacher, I know how the quiet ones fall through the cracks in a big class). The other people who go are not pretentious at all...everyone is really nice, people wear very normal-looking clothes (not $200 get-ups), nobody tries to show off. The studio itself is very clean and zen--it's a pleasure to go there. Personally, and again I don't have anything to compare it to, I like Iyengar yoga because of its attention to details (making sure you really work the right muscles and get the poses right) and the props (which allow you to do the poses correctly and without injury). I know people who like Bikram yoga, but honestly the idea of doing yoga in an overcrowded sauna with an instructor who does not really correct your poses doesn't sound very appealing to me (though I'd give it a try after doing this for a while and knowing a little better what I'm doing, just because I'll try anything once). One reviewer talked about not breaking a sweat...all I can say is that I get a good muscle workout at these classes, but it also helps me clear my mind and I always leave feeling better, a little or a lot, than I did when I came in. I did just join another gym in the neighborhood to do my cardio, because I realize that doing yoga twice a week is not going to make me drop the 10-15 pounds I'm trying to drop. But that was never really my intention in starting in the first place...I tried it out when I was going through a particularly stressful moment at work, and it made me feel so much lighter and more clear-headed after the first class that I wanted to keep going back. My stress level has been much, much lower ever since, and I attribute that partially to the classes. So, in short, if all you're concerned about is burning calories, you will probably want to do something else. But this place is great and I can't wait to go back tomorrow! :-) read more

Intructer injured my arm today by twisting it even after I clearly was in pain and told him to stop. Lots of negativity and talking about age. 2 classes left on my pass and I won't go back, too bad he put a sour taste in my mouth Also first 2 times I came to this studio the instructor didn't show up read more

I'm still basking in the post yoga buzz from this class. After a number of disappointing classes at my downtown (post-work) yoga spot this week (they didn't hold positions long enough... it's the worst when you feel like you barely did anything for your body in an hour long class), Bija's level 1 -2 Sat. 11:15 class was a breath of fresh air. The teacher, Brian, helped me get into a hand stand and shoulder stand, both near firsts for me. And we did some other outstanding positions that I've never tried before. He was good about holding them long enough and usually repeating to really get in there. The studio itself is beautiful and very nicely kept. Anyone who lives in the area and loves yoga should definitely check it out. read more

Love this place! Never felt so welcomed by a yoga instructor and yogis. I do feel this is jewel within a great area. I would recommend anyone traveling or wanting to practice with more intermediate poses. Definitely recommend the restorative class if your having back issues. read more

I'm about six months into beginner classes here. Group fitness isn't my favorite thing, but I've found the environment and instructors very welcoming and approachable, and happy to help with my specific needs. I don't have a point of comparison since I'm new to yoga, but the space is really nice: full of every prop you might want, great lighting, and very calming. The class passes are a deal, too. I enjoy coming here and am hoping to find time to fit more classes into my schedule. I'd absolutely recommend this studio to any other beginners. read more

I signed up online for the Sunday night "Restorative Yoga" class and arrived to the class 15-minutes early per the instructions on their website. After waiting 30 minutes outside along with a dozen other people, no teacher ever showed up for the class. The studio remains locked until a teacher shows up, so there was no way to contact anyone about the missing instructor. What a waste of time-- especially when it takes a good 10 minutes to find parking in the inner sunset neighborhood. I will NOT be going back to this studio! I paid $20 for the class and still have not received my money back from the owner of the facility. What a disappointment! read more

I love this place. I've been a yoga dilettante for many years, hopping from one studio to another. Almost without realizing it, I found I kept coming back here. I agree with what others have already said. The class schedule is great. They offer classes at all hours of the day. And the facilities are spacious, clean, and well-equipped. The instructors here teach in the Iyengar yoga method, which stresses a disciplined correctness of alignment, but they do it in a way that feels friendly and approachable. A word of warning: the traditional Sanskrit names are used for yoga poses and instructors here will often start the class with a song-like invocation -- also in Sanskrit. Don't be put off if that sort of thing isn't your style. The poses are physically challenging and will grow you in surprising ways, whatever language they're in. I highly recommend the week or month-long intensives that Larry Lopez does from time to time. I did one not long ago and it totally changed my practice. Good stuff. read more

I've got a body like Vincent D'Onofrio's in Full Metal Jacket. Why? Unfortunate genetics and because I eat like a bastard, that's why. I'm not what one would normally consider yoga material. Despite this, I've practiced yoga on and for for a couple of years at Bija so I can stay supple and flexible for my many fans despite my advancing age. OK, that's a lie I was never particularly supple or flexible. And I don't have many fans. But I've practiced yoga with 5 or 6 different instructors at Bija and they've all been great. None of them have been yoga nazis who have tried to force me into a pose that a prepubescent gymnast would have trouble achieving and none of them have lectured me on the evils of eating meat. (both of these things have happened to me at other yoga studios) The instructors cater to the individuals in each class so people of different abilities will sometimes do different poses. Bija is very reasonably priced and the studio is clean and inviting. Do your body a favor and check it out. read more

About 6 months ago I took my first yoga class. To be honest I didn't understand why I need to do it and the purpose of it. But here I am 6 months later and I am addicted and loving it .For the most part it is due to the patient and professional instructors at the Bija yoga center. I am almost floating on air after leaving Megs restorative class on Wednesday evening, and loving the blend of physical and spiritual approach with a good dose of humor thrown in for good measure in Larrys class. And the best comment I can give is the fact that I no longer need to visit my chiropractor for some aches I used to have before staring yoga at the center. My chiropractor lost a client, but Bija yoga center gained a loyal and appreciative student . read more

I have lived across the street from this yoga studio for nearly three years and only recently have I checked out beginner classes. I have to say, it is very welcoming and as a beginner , you should feel totally comfortable coming here. I swore I would never be someone that would be able to stand on my head, but the teachers are so supportive and helpful, even I have been upside down with help from the instructor. Barbara rocks as have the other instructors I've had here. If you want to get individual attention and become hooked on Iyengar yoga, well, you need to check this studio out..... read more

I've tried several studios in SF, and several styles of yoga. Iyengar is my favorite because it best suits my ability and the fact that I suck at yoga. The props make it easier to adjust poses to my ability. I love the space at Bija, and I love the teachers. They also have a good variety of classes for various levels, and a good selection of class times from early morning to evening. read more

This is my absolute favorite place to do yoga in SF. There is a mix of fantastic instructors and it is conveniently located in my 'hood (++). Try Larry Lopez, Cathy Alef, Cynthia Bates, Brian Hogencamp or Chad Balch - they are sure to help you deepen your practice and bring a light to any day. read more

I started going to Bija about 1 1/2 years ago because my acupuncturist recommended it and specifically recommended Larry's class, who is one of the owners. I am a runner and after running a number of marathons over the years I was having more and more injuries. I still remember my very first class with Larry. I definitely struggled and felt a bit embarrassed by my lack of flexibility, but he made me feel more at ease, even joking at times which actually helped me feel not so self conscious. He helped me with the posses when I needed it and showed me alternatives when I was not able to do some of the poses. At the end of the class he told me that I really should come back, and I could tell that he was definitely concerned for my health. I did keep coming back and the changes in my body have been very noticeable. One of the biggest things I did not realize was how much my shoulders were closed in from hunching over a computer all day long at work. I was not able to get up into a backbend when I started taking classes and now I can actually lift myself up from the floor and my head is off of the ground! I still have some work to do, but that is part of the continuing journey of yoga. Larry has encouraged me to start a home practice and gives me advice on different poses that I can do at home to help with different chronic issues that I have from all of my running. Most recently I had an issue with some tendonitis in my leg and Larry was able to set up a different pose for me to do then the rest of the class in order to help with my leg. I couldn't believe how much better it felt after class. I have always seen that he goes out of his way to attend to those students who may have special needs due to injuries or physical limitations while still carrying on the rest of the class. And he manages to do it all while cracking some jokes to ease those tough moments. But he also knows when to be serious and is often talking about his own struggles and journey in his own practice that has lead him to where he is today. The space at Bija, it is very clean and bright. The rope wall that Larry has built himself is much superior to any others I have seen with changeable ropes and swings that click into place for never ending possibilities for poses. I would highly recommend to anyone that they check out Bija Yoga, and specifically check out some of Larry's classes. read more

Great prices, lovely,caring teachers. Perfect classes for us beginners. I just love their Gentle Yoga approach.

If you enjoy Iyengar yoga (if you don't, for your own sake, don't come) and a team of knowledgeable dedicated teachers, a beautiful, clean equipped studio and peace of mind, come here. It's a gem and adds to the unique and special Iyengar community. The people who come here for class and teach here regularly are what make it deserving of five stars. read more

I am so pleased by the quality of instruction at Bija Yoga. The teachers are knowledgable and approachable. I constantly leave the studio feeling physically, mentally and spiritually aligned. I highly recommend Bija to those looking to deepen their understanding of yoga. read more

For a long long time I've been trying to find somewhere to simply do yoga without feeling like I was supporting a highly commercialized establisment. My gals and I have been to several different studios, but I'm not into having the lastest and most expensive yoga attire. In my view, nothing wrong with good old sweat pants and top. That's what I noticed here, though some people were dressed that way, it wasn't like they were trying to fulfill the part of a hip yogster. This is really the first time I've used props. I thought it was unnatural before, but now I think differently. I've always used a pillow to boost my caboose and make myself more comfortable during sitting breathing techniques, so I now believe it's okay to up aides to facilitate more difficult asanas. I like that they have Sunday classes as well. I think I will try the Sunday afternoon gentle class. Sometimes the 90 minute regular class is a little much. read more

I've tried yoga DVDs and gym-yoga at various gyms, and I never really "got" it. I never really got that "stretch" feeling and also couldn't seem to get into half of the poses. I was usually told just to do "child's pose" on the floor until we got back around to something I could do. Lame. This place is Iyengar Yoga, unlike the Vinyassa Flow stuff that most yoga studios do. It focuses on body alignment, standing poses, and shoulder stands (at least at the Intro Level, which is where I've been attending). I've gone to a few different classes and can honestly say I really like all the instructors. They all explain things down to the tinniest detail (which I like), the classes are small (like 5-6 people usually in the ones I've attended), so you get lots of attention. I also like the availability and frequent use of props to help modify the poses. There hasn't been a single thing I haven't been able to do. It's helped a lot with the range of motion of previously injured limbs (my ankles are busted), and I leave feeling like I just had a massage. And it's NOT hot yoga, so I don't feel like I've walked back into a Midwestern summer. Bonus! read more

I've been going here for 4+ years and it is fabulous. Not only is the staff extremely well educated in yoga (no...I took a weekend teacher's training class and now I teach yoga!) but they are all very nice and fun. It is a great place for beginners since they have a lot of classes geared toward someone new to yoga. I highly recommend Bija Yoga for anyone interested in improving their health! read more

The studio is fully equipped with every yoga prop and more. It is clean, welcoming and you can feel the Iyengar vibe throughout the studio. Larry Lopez all level class was excellent. It moved along at a perfect pace with detailed instruction linking from asana to asana. It was intelligent, challenging and light hearted. I felt great the whole day and look forward to returning the next time I visit San Fransisco. read more

Outstanding teachers. Beautiful studio, state of art equipment and props. I've been practicing yoga for almost 10 years pretty seriously, and I'm now pretty choosy about my yoga teachers. San Francisco must be one of the best places in the world to be a yoga student,( outside of Pune and a few places on the shores of the Ganges, anyway.) I can safely say that the teachers here are as good as at any in the parts of the country I've travelled to (east coast, Midwest, Seattle, etc) They emphasize safety, and teach in a way that encourages beginners to progress slowly but very mindfully, with an emphasis on developing understanding of your potential and limits and self-acceptance, rather than the ability to do circus tricks. There's always something extremely challenging, tho, it could be difficult poses you haven't seen before, or getting your existing poses just so. Also operating with the knowledge that certain common injuries can really hinder your progress. One very important thing is that the teachers always are available after class for questions, clarification. This isn't always the case at other studios. read more

Yoga has been on my to-do list for ages, and I came to Bija as a total beginner with absolutely no yoga experience. I am totally hooked. I am a competitive athlete and do a lot of weight training and cardio work, but was starting to feel that my lack of flexibility might cause injury since I am not exactly getting any younger. Linda, the teacher for the beginner classes I attend, is so great about getting students to think about how to access different muscle groups in an effort to learn proper poses and maintain the balanced body that is really what I am trying to achieve. I can already feel a difference in my other works outs and see a difference in what I am able to do in class, and really appreciate Linda's relaxed but very well-informed approach to teaching the class. read more

I have practiced yoga and visited several studios in Los Angeles, and some in Washington State. I must confess that my one experience with Iyengar yoga in California was not positive; however, Larry Lopez changed my views on it. I *highly* recommend his classes. He is fun, gentle, patient, and supportive. I wish I could live in that neighborhood--I would definitely study and practice with him. I am looking forward to my next summer vacation so I can take a couple of classes with him. read more

my friend convinced me to try yoga for the first time this past weekend. while he frequents another yoga studio, we decided to head to a local studio. looking at the bija studio website, i was a bit afraid that the classes were too advanced for my inflexible and clumsy body. we walked in and everyone was great. the facilities were clean and when we went into the class (5 minutes late), the instructor brian was warm and greeted us. i've heard a lot of people say that they've been to yoga studios where the instructors basically tell you what to do, show you once and expect you to do everything yourself. brian was great and helped us out with each pose. he corrected my mistakes and when i couldn't do a pose all the way, he would bring different props so that i could do the best i could. i never thought i would be lying on my neck and shoulders with butt in the air and legs directly above my head during my first class, but there i was! i'd definitely say that i'd go back but after a few more beginner classes. brian was a great instructor and he'll definitely be the guy i go to after i get a but more beginner poses down. read more

I have tried about 10 yoga studios in San Francisco, and thank god I moved to the Inner Sunset and discovered Bija. Bija Yoga has a great space, with very friendly, knowledgeable, and patient teachers. They have one of the best schedules of any studio, with early morning classes, evening classes, and I wide variety of classes throughout the day on the weekends. read more

These folks are the real deal! I started going to yoga because I needed to alleviate back pain, but now 2 years later I find myself looking forward to class. The physical and mental benefits I'm experiencing are far greater than I ever imagined. read more

I've been attending yoga classes with Larry for three plus years and actually love getting up at 6 am to attend his class. Maybe love is too strong a description, but I am grateful he offers an early morning class. Larry is a skilled teacher with a great sense of humor who takes the practice seriously but never makes me feel bad when I make mistakes. I never thought I would like doing yoga and Bija is the only place I practice. I live in Noe Valley and schlep to the Inner Sunset just for his classes! Debra read more

I love this studio! Clean and well equipped, the teachers are friendly and knowledgable - they offer a wide variety of classes, so no matter what your skill level, there's an appropriate class for you. A great place to start or maintain your Iyengar practice - I highly recommend it! read more

Bija is great. I have been new to Iyengar and have taken classes by Cynthia and Chad and other instructors. I appreciate the method and feel every class has been rewarding in so many ways. Goodbye Gym. read more

I have been going to Bija Yoga for almost 2 years and have found the studio to be welcoming and clean. Most of my classes have been with Mimi. Her class is challenging and rewarding. I never thought I'd be doing shoulder stands, but now I look forward to them. Mimi gives personalized attention to each student, which is facilitated by the often small class size. There is a lot of emphasis on getting the pose just right and understanding how small movements in one part of the body can affect the rest of the pose. Mimi brings a great sense of humor and levity to the class, which makes doing serious yoga approachable to beginners like me. I always feel great when I leave class. read more

They don't have too many people on weekdays. Besides the floor, the also have wall bell to do different pose. new student got 5 classes for $60 read more

Bija is a great Iyengar yoga studio conveniently located in the inner sunset (on 9th & Irving right off the N-line). Bija has 2 practice studios, one main room and one smaller studio offering a variety of classes throughout the week. The studio is maintained with great care and pride, and has all the Iyengar props one could desire :-). I have been practicing here for over a year primarily with Larry Lopez. a dedicated and gifted teacher. While Larry is definitely serious about the practice of yoga, continually encouraging his students to advance their practice in a safe manner, his approach is always humorous and positive. Larry L is also quite helpful in offering variations to any students dealing with physical conditions or injuries. The classes are a good size (not to packed) with a steady following of students who are friendly and welcoming. I feel very lucky to have found such a wonderful place to practice the yoga I love. read more