This was my first time going to Flow Yoga as I just moved to DC from NYC. My Jivamukti certified friends who are instructors in NYC Jivamukti recommended that I check out Flow so I came out today to check it out. The front desk was super friendly, and convinced me to try the "Rocket" class even though I wanted to go to the Jivamukti class, so I decided to try the Rocket class and boy was that a mistake. I have been to a lot of different yoga studios, including Jivamukti, Flying Lotus, Mala Yoga, The Shala, Bikram, Moksha, Om, Kula, Mala etc. It would have helped to have a better explanation of this series and more personalized instruction during the class. I will go back to Flow, but I was not happy with my first time experience there as a visiting yogi :( read more

This is the studio that turned me into a hardcore yoga lover. The animal crackers and water are such a nice bonus. I miss this place!!!!

I am new to yoga, and this is hands down the best studio I have found yet. As a newbie, you can pay just $40 for unlimited classes for the first month, which is a steal compared to the $20/class price plan (but they also have other pricing plans, like a pre-paid discount bundle). The studio offers great flexibility with their times, morning, mid-day and eve, which has allowed me to check out a range of their beginner classes. So far, Slow Flow is my favorite. read more

I love this place. For a number of reasons. Upon entering, the immediate vibe is one of familiarity, comfort, and caring. The desk staff are extremely kind, and welcome you back with smiles once they recognize your face. There is a sense of humor (the hand dryers in the bathrooms are labelled "prana shakti blast.) They're very eco-friendly, and focused on helping you start/continue your practice. Their site is a good indicator of their attitudes: welcoming, with a balance between spiritual and physical exercise. They offer a variety of products to help you in your practice; everything you could possibly need is in there. Conveniently, there is also a lululemon across the street. I've taken classes with Megan and Leah; I highly recommend both. Megan teaches the Fundamentals (for those who have never taken yoga) class, and Leah teaches Flow 1. Both are extremely knowledgeable, open to questions, calming, and care about what they do. Megan specializes in rehabilitative yoga; she's really quite good. Classes right after business hours are usually packed; be sure to reserve a class online, or you may not get a spot. Studio spaces are clean, well-lit with huge windows and exposed brick walls. The space is tight; the coatroom gets really crowded in the winter, but everybody is respectful and it's a minor inconvenience. There is a LARGE variety of classes to choose from, from Pilates to Meditation to Yoga, with a constant selection of workshops. Prices are on par with other studios in the area, and reserving spaces online saves you $0.75 per class (it sounds negligible, but does add up!). All in all, this is the best yoga studio I've ever been to. I feel healthy and peaceful just walking in the door. You've gotta go! read more

I had saved this review from a long time ago, I don't know if Rob is still there..but I love FLOW. ... I was seriously considering lipo. I came to Flow with a friend, and thought I'd only tag along once. But then I discovered Rob. Serious, don't spend money on lipo, just do down dogs with Rob. Rob makes you work it, and while many times I want to walk out during middle of class. I stick through and come home to admire new muscles in my newly toned body. I got caught at work checking out my guns in the ladies room. Thanks Rob! Other instructors are good too, but I prefer Rob, because I know I will get a good work out. read more

This place is okay. Pros: space is pretty nice although the stairs to come up are quite narrow (it's one-way). There are several nice studios and a good waiting area. There is a lot of variety as they offer lots of different types of yoga as well as pilates and toning classes. I loved the pilates and toning. Cons: Price is quite high. For me (I've been trying other places) the yoga classes weren't that great. I don't know how to describe just not as enjoyable as other places I went. One of the studios is tiny - 12 people and that is tight so getting into those classes is tough. read more

I love Flow! Lovely studio, the instructors are super nice and helpful, without being pushy. Word of warning, the classes take place in small spaces. It's a converted row house, so the rooms aren't huge. And they will pack you in, so if you're not used to having less than five inches between you and another mat, well, you might have an issue. I got over it, because I realized I don't actually mind having someone that close to me, as long as I'm not in the very back corner. But thats why I get there about 5-10 minutes early, so I don't have to be in the corner. Have some tea (free), cookies (free), get your mat from the closet (free, with unlimited membership) and wait for your class. Take the extra time to think about your upcoming practice and what it means to you. Plus, they have a deal for newbies where it is $50 for a month unlimited pass... HUGE bonus! I'm so excited about the last two classes I've taken, that I went ahead and literally signed up for classes the rest of the month. I highly recommend Flow, for whatever level you're at in your practice. read more

I have been practicing yoga for years and I think flow is a great studio for several reasons. First and most important, the teachers are good.. many have great mastery over the subject matter. Gail's ashtanga class is one of the best I have been to. Second, and this really sets Flow apart from other studios.. there are a variety of classes - and not just yoga classes. You can take pilates or do a full body cadio + weights work out called "Flow Fit." In the beginning I was a bit skeptical about the "non-yoga" classes being very devoted to my yoga practice, but I found that these classes helped me in making progress in my yoga classes. I build more ab strength in the flow fit class that helped with inversions. So I would def recommend these classes, especially flow fit with Murat. He will kick your butt! The only negative about the studio (hence the four starts) is that it is hard to get in and out. There is a long and narrow staircase to the studio that only accommodates one person at a time. So be prepared for that.. I try to come early so that I can avoid rush hour at the studio. read more

AMAZING yoga studio! The instructors are all so friendly and knowledgeable. Jessica is one of the best instructors I have ever had. The studio itself is in a great area--right next to Whole Foods--and offers hot tea, cookies, and comfortable pillows to lounge on before or after your practice. read more

What I like most about Flow are the teachers, I have had Gopi and another teacher, forget her name. I feel very comfortable at Flow and appreciate the "mini lessons" I get from each class. Chakra zones, breathing techniques and chanting are some things you will experience at Flow - but it's not intimidating. The teachers I've had seem really down to earth;) They know what they're doing and are good at making you feel relaxed - they are super helpful too if you get lost:) The space is cute and charming, but the staircases are narrow and annoying at times when the studio gets busy. read more

I'm almost afraid to write nice things, because then the classes will get more crowded! I really like this studio. The teachers remember your name and are happy to offer assistance. They aren't scary "yoga people," which is nice. The pilates classes are great, and I do enjoy flow I. I'm chicken to try the more advanced classes, but only because I find this class challenging and interesting each time. read more

The staff is lovely. Whether you are a beginner-advanced or anywhere in the middle, the instruction is meant to push YOUR current boundaries. The instructors are respectful, kind, and motivating; the classes are as challenging as you want them to be, and the studio spaces are wonderful. I am so sad that I'm moving to SF because I have fallen in love with this studio. I recommend Flow to anyone and everyone who is interested in dedicating time to a yoga practice. read more

Flow just fits with my style. In yoga, you are your own teacher, so studying a variety of styles is really great - compliment the intensity of a Jivamukti class with alignment principles of a more Iyengar oriented class ... however, that does involve getting to know the teachers and being familiar with styles of yoga. I've been studying for a while, but I'm definitely no yoga rockstar. You've got to be okay with people being A LOT better than you here, but again, I'd rather be one of the worst in the class than one of the best. Ultimately though, if you pay attention, practice at home, and listen to your body, this could be a great studio for you. read more

Context: This was my first yoga class ever. My friends and I showed up for class without having signed up, and luckily we got in. The ladies at the front desk were very nice, and for new yoga-ers, the 2 classes for $20 works just fine as a trial. The classroom was a bit crowded, as was the general area after class, but I suppose that is to be expected, right? Being a yoga virgin, I found the "gentle yoga" class with Sierra to be just right. Sierra was helpful in giving personal attention and being descriptive enough for the first-timers, but it also was not too slow. I am eager to go back for my second class! read more

Before Flow, I had only done yoga classes offered by my college and community center in California. I was a bit worried that I sucked too much for a real yoga place. They are super nice and supportive, I didn't feel bad for sucking. All of the classes that I took was great. The best are Angela Cerkevich's yoga one class and Kelly Griffith's pilates and fuse pilates! I did the $50/month unlimited classes for new students deal but after that it jumps to $150/month unlimited. That is too much money for me, so I try and take a class or two a month. read more

Love love love Mimi's power yoga class, she is amazing! I prefer to get a lot of moving and poses with varieties in my yoga class and her class literally is one hour power yoga and you feel like you just had some powerful workout afterwards. She occasionally adjusts your poses too which I appreciate. I've also taken Kristen's class once too, she was a sub and I fell in love with her class as well. She is full of energy and creative and challenges your poses. She also helps with your poses and handstands. My schedule doesn't work out with her classes but I'd love to be a regular to her classes! read more

Flow is great! I tried it out for only $35/month, which is a really fantastic deal! The studio spaces are beautiful, lounge area inviting, yoga class selection extremely varied, and the staff are super friendly. This is a great studio for beginners and experienced students since the classes range from supine meditation and very gentle classes to challenging ashtanga and prana flow. It's worthwhile trying out lots of different styles to find what works for you (and there are some fantastic teachers here!). Totally recommended! read more

Flow is one of my favorite things about my neighborhood; I always tell my husband that when we one day move, it is the thing I will miss most. The studio is tucked away next to Whole Foods on P Street, and the spaces are cozy. The teachers are fabulous: I have been in a class with Joan now for a year and can't say enough about how wonderful she is. I also have been doing the prenatal yoga class on Sundays for a while, which is great with Jen! Most of the other teachers I go to (not as consistently) are also great. Everyone is well-trained and quick to help with accommodations and anything injury-related. It's a little pricey per class, but then again so is everywhere else nearby. read more

This is the absolute best yoga studio I've ever been to. I'm living in NYC now and trying desperately to find a studio comparable to Flow, and nothing has come close! The front desk staff knew my name when I used to come. Tom is just THAT good. Every teacher makes an effort to know your name. The classes get crowded but Flow posits a "love your neighbor" vibe. Jess's classes are BY FAR the best yoga classes I've ever taken in my life. Consider it a privilege to practice with her. She treats every student like family, remembers your name, cheers you on. She is the most loving yoga instructor and person I've ever met. I'd go into class thinking, today sucked, the economy sucks, I don't even want to be here. During our practice she'd encourage us to be wherever we are--whether it's with our poses, our lives, our situations with out relationships, whatever. She takes the philosophy of yoga and its dharma and applies it to real life. It sounds crazy, but I've never felt more positive. It's become annoying to others how optimistic I want to be! My boyfriend & I miss her classes SO MUCH. We're planning on moving back to DC and the first thing I'm doing is enrolling in their monthly unlimited. They have other wonderful teachers as well--Shawn is one of them. Angela is also great. It's a real family-style studio, but very clean and calming. When you're at Flow, you feel like you're coming home. read more

I came to Flow on the advice of a friend after moving to DC, and I am so happy I did--it has provided grounding for me through graduate school and a new job. Flow's great strength is that it offers something for everyone. As my practice has changed, I have continuously been able to find what I need at Flow. In yoga, like in life, people do have significant preference differences--I think that at a place like Flow you should definitely try a different type of class/teacher to figure out what works best for you. The classes at peak hours can be pretty packed--if that's not your thing, I've definitely been to weekend classes and morning classes that are not wall to wall full, so with a little trial and error you can find smaller classes. I actually strongly prefer the packed classes because they make me feel like part of a big, thriving community, which is Flow's other great strength! read more

This place got me into yoga. I've tried everything exercise-wise, from Urban Boxing to SoulCycle and I'm telling you, this is so much better than both. The two-week class package for first time visitors is more than reasonable, so I'd say come in and give it a try to see if it's for you! read more

Rocket 2 with Mimi - awesome class. Really gets you moving. Mimi provides clear instruction. well paced class. Mimi also accommodates the very proficient with cues for even more advanced poses. Mimi provides good assists/adjustments. Everyone is super friendly (Bre + Addy). Class can be packed: the face the center arrangement means that you need to negotiate a bit with the person facing you when you launch in to Ardha Chandrasana - people adapt and make space. highly recommended read more

Thoughtful and interesting jivamukti-inspired class. Atmospheric, authentic and spiritual studio energy. The studio space has older hardwood floors and brick walls with light filled windows - a look I love and crave, since we don't have that type of material palette in San Diego. I try to take a class each time I'm back in DC. read more

Since I've taken more classes at Flow, I wanted to add to my review that I think Megan Davis is the best yoga teacher in D.C. She totally knows her stuff, and will give you an amazing workout without hurting you. (And, I still wish it was easier to get into Fuse Pilates. I might have to give up for now since the times that work for me are always sold out. Maybe Flow should rent a bigger space for the Fuse students. Like the National Mall.) read more

Flow Yoga is so great. Every class I have here is with a great teacher who is so passionate and dedicated. I find the front desk staff to also be very friendly and welcoming, and the studio is always so clean. My only complaint with Flow is that some of the classes are extremely crowded, especially at popular times or with popular teachers. It can be a bit distracting to be packed in there without much space, so I wish they would cap some of the classes just slightly smaller. Otherwise, it's usually a great experience. read more

Look, we're all human, even those of us who "do" yoga. But some of the teachers at Flow are just plain unpleasant. I used to go regularly a year or so ago (probably 4-5 classes a week!) so I know this studio's deal pretty well. The instructors are not very friendly. Maybe they've all given up because their classes are often so crowded, but I've never had anyone except the very sweet front desk manager try to learn my name, no matter how many times I've attended any given instructor's class. For example, I went to one teacher's class 2-3 times a week for probably three or four months (don't want to name names, but she often teaches during the day, on "off" times) and she never once asked my name. They seem to encourage cliquishness there--if you're in, you're going to be greeted by hugs and fawning and even big send offs where the entire class is told to wish you well on your vacation/relocation/whatever, but if you're out, you might as well not exist. And while some of the teachers seem to have great training, their presentation is a little prickly. (Again, I don't want to name names, but I love the asana knowledge of one therapy-oriented teacher there, though I think her demeanor leaves much to be desired.) Overall, the studio encourages and fosters a cult of personality, and some teachers have started to believe their own hype. I've been to classes where the teacher only did asana along with the students the entire time--no circulating among students to get a different point of view, no adjustments, no personal comments. I've also been in 1.5 level classes where the teacher was doing freestanding handstands and similarly advanced poses without any instruction or comment. She seemed to expect us all to marvel and clap and be "inspired" to try to emulate her, regardless of how informed, practiced, or ready we were. She even criticized one student for not trying an inversion because of her "fear." This instructor never asked any of us about injuries! How presumptuous and unhelpful to insult someone without knowing anything about their body--that girl could have been recovering from a broken wrist, has issues with vertigo--anything is possible, and that teacher wouldn't know because she didn't ask. Ego is king here, unfortunately, which makes it not a very safe place for beginners or yogis who struggle with managing their own appetite for showy poses and the Oooos and Ahhhs of others. read more

Oh, how I miss Flow. I discovered yoga at Tranquil Space, but I moved to Flow for its diversity of styles, community, and (dare I say it) humility. Every single teacher I had was fabulous. The class prices are affordable. It's not too far from the Metro and right next to Whole Foods (but please don't patronize them as they willfully fund a pedophile--see https://t.co/sr2NpQl8Lw). Classes were always full, but not over-full. read more

I am new to the area and heard about Flow from one of my favorite yoga instructors in San Diego. I REALLY wanted to love this place because of its proximity to my apartment as well as its extensive offering of classes. Alas, I just couldn't make it work. My yoga journey began in NYC at a very popular, crowded, 4th floor walk-up (Kula Yoga Project in Tribeca--DIVINE place), so I am used to the mat-to-mat classes. But this place is really set up poorly. It's really difficult to get up the narrow stairwell upon entering the studio and retrieving your belongings after class all but undoes any relaxation bestowed upon you in class. Logistics aside, I guess what I really don't like about this place is that I find the classes really unchallenging. I never broke out in a sweat once in all the classes I took there, even a Jivamukti Level 2 class which is supposed to be highly energetic and athletic. I am usually cold in the studio, which means either a) the heat isn't up enough (and I am NOT a hot yoga person, but I think 80 degrees is appropriate) or b) I am not working hard/moving enough. I don't think this studio should be called "Flow" as most of the instructors don't really do that! When I think of flow, I think of lots of movement, lots of vinyasas/ chattarungas, etc. In addition to all of the above, I also get a strange vibe from most of the teachers, most of them don't seem very grounded or relatable. They are all just a bit too "out there" for me. On a positive note, the prices are reasonable and I really like the Pilates classes with Kelly and Mariska. They will kick your butt! I am still in search of the perfect yoga studio and have tried Past Tense, Serenity, Tranquil Space, & Yoga District as well. So far, Serenity is my favorite, so it looks like I'll be trekking up the hill from Dupont to Adam's Morgan a few times a week. Will travel for the perfect yoga class. read more

I've read a lot about Flow and was extremely excited to check it out. I loved the ambience of the waiting room and the front desk staff were super nice - but the class I took was......... interesting. I've taken my fare share of yoga classes in various states and countries. I've never experienced a teacher to demand yoga breathing in a bootcamp manor (totally disturbing) and I'm all about hands on adjustments if needed, but not forceful adjustments when you're not expecting it. I'll definitely check out another teacher and class, but I wouldn't go back to this class again.... read more

I finally decided to give Flow a shot, after trying several of the other studios in town. I can confidently say that I will never return. I went to an L2 class by Rob (who also teaches as Evolve) which I really liked. And you NEED to love your class because getting to the studio and leaving the studio are total yoga-buzz killers. It was total chaos in the stairwell, signing into class, as well as leaving (not to mention there was no room for me to put my shoes back on in the hallway after class so I had to walk barefoot outside so I could finally have enough space to bendover!) Too much chaos, too many people, not enough space, and kind of an overall yoga-elite atmopshere from the staff members...not a pleasant experience overall, except for Rob's class. read more

Favorite yoga studio in DC! Talented yogis teach here and came highly recommended from my Boston yogis. My favorite classes were taught by Shawn Parell and Rob Hess! read more

This is the BEST yoga studio in the world. No kidding. I've sun-salutationed in Boston, Tel Aviv, NY, London, Paris, throughout CA. This is my favorite studio among much wandering yogism, and I am surprised to find mixed reviews here. It is a 3-studio joint, but admittedly tight. That is one thing I love most about it. Yoga isn't about having your own 3-foot radius bubble of personal space. In fact, the closeness at Flow lends a special intimacy and community vibe. Plus, those people so close around you are AWESOME! The staff are warm and welcoming, and the instructors are among the most informed and experienced I've seen. My favorite teacher of all time is Rob Hess (highly recommended!). He teaches the a well-developed yet intuitively guided class with great music. It also attracts a crowd of cool people, and I have met many potential friends here. If I ever live in DC again I will resume my Flow devotee-ism. Until then, may those who love Flow continue to enjoy, and those with less than 5 stars fulfill their practice elsewhere! Flow is too good for lackluster spirit and any missing gratitude for what they provide! read more

Flow Yoga Studio has the "X" factor. I've tried other studio's in the area, but they all seem to be lacking that "something something" that Flow undoubtedly has. I feel immediately relaxed as soon as I enter the place. From the amazing, attentive, and very knowledgeable teachers and the abundance and variety of classes offered to the small boutique where you can find anything from organic yoga mats and lavender scented eye pillows to books on meditation and raw foods...this place has it all. Granted, it does get a bit crowded...especially during the after work classes...but its totally worth it...just smile, say your "excuse me's" when you bump into folks(cuz you will bump into folks) and you'll be just fine. I generally do Yin Yoga and Gentle Flow with Sierra Weaver(who is just awesome) and Harmony Flow with Greg (equally as awesome)...if youre a novice Yogi or just looking for classes that will help you destress and decompress, those classes are where I'd recommend you start. The ONLY real "complaint" i have about Flow is that it is quite pricey. Very pricey actually. Currently its just over $140 a month for an unlimited membership and individual classes are over $16 each. Luckily, for those of us who are students, there's a 15% discount available which helps. This same discount is also available to non profit employees making less than 40K. I also kinda like the fact that Flow is literally right next to Whole Foods. So after I finish getting my Yoga on, I can just hop, skip, and jump right over to Whole Foods and grab some healthy grub. read more

Good yoga class with some serious yogis, but I wish the instructors didn't just zip through the poses without more cueing for alignment, form, and posture so that injury prevention was more top of mind. read more

I've been a member of Flow for 3 years now, and let me first say there are many five star qualities about the studio: the number of classes offered each day, the variety of class types (from many different styles of yoga, pilates, meditation and then some), and a number of teachers are simply best in class (may I recommend Greg, Clare, Brittanie, both of the Jens, Scott, Angela, and Gail). The FlowPass is also a fantastic feature, and a great bargain for frequent users. I also love the hot tea and cookies in the waiting room. There are also some fantastic workshops, and I recommend Megan's workshops to anyone practicing with physical strains and limitations (but I agree with the user who pointed out that the space is not even close to being ADA friendly). For new Flowgies - there are a few things to be aware of that may not be the five star quality you seek. The space is very crowded: from the entrance to the changing room to the waiting spaces to the classes themselves. Hopefully the new space they plan to open will help resolve these issues. The biggest frustration is the 2 hour cancellation policy, which is particularly troublesome in a town that operates on last minute changes. While I appreciate that Flow recently added a little more flexibility to the number of missed classes -- they've also adopted a policy where they'll give your spot away if you're not there 5 minutes before class starts. Ironic for a studio in one of the most heavily traveled areas of town, with little parking and no nearby metro stops. I do appreciate that Flow's management seeks to respond to customer input, and I hope they will find a better way to address this one. read more

Flow, how do I love thee? Let me count the ways. I've been practicing yoga for ten years, almost six of those at Flow. I love Flow for these three reasons and more: 1) The studio offers a wide variety of styles of yoga, and each teacher is expert in their style. This lets me try new styles, sometimes pushes me to go to a class that isn't as natural for me but helps me learn, and also shows an open-mindedness on the part of the studio owners and managers. Certain other studios have a signature style. That can be helpful for new yogis, as they can get comfortable and see progress, but it gets boring after a year or two. Flow is an amazing studio for intermediate and advanced practitioners because of the variety and the fact that most of the teachers have been practicing and teaching for a long time. 2) The people. Flow IS really crowded (although opening a new location, so that might get better). But the people are really nice! It might seem a little clubby, because some of us have been practicing together for years and tend to hug and chat before class, but just say hi!!! We all love meeting other yogis or potential yogis. It took me a while to start talking to people there, but as soon as I did, I had a bunch of friends. About a quarter of the people in the more advanced classes are trained as yoga teachers, so we are also happy to answer questions in an informal way. This is a studio full of people who really love yoga, and can't wait to share it with other people. We all remember being beginners or new to town and how hard it was, so don't feel awkward. 3) Emotional and spiritual balance as well as goodness for the body: Yoga studios generally offer a more rounded yoga experience than gym yoga classes. Yoga does wonderful things for the body, but when combined with gaze and breath, it is purposefully meditative in a way unique among activities that also tone you. In certain classes at Flow, there is chanting, there is discussion about emotions. It was a little awkward for me at first, but also such an excellent counter to Washington's general energy. It's a place you can be more open and do things that seem a little crazy. Because there are many styles at Flow, it can take time to find the right classes for you at a particular moment/level. So here are some thoughts: 1. Take a yoga fundamentals class or ideally series if you're new. It will make everything so much better later on!!!!! 2. If relatively new, Joan, Leah, and Caroline are very strong on form and have a slower pace which can help. Also Clare, especially for awareness of your core and posture. 3. If injured, go to Meghan's class. She's a yoga therapist and came to yoga through severe injuries herself. She'll show you how to modify and be safe. 4. I love elegant, creative, never the same twice flows, so I tend towards Jess, Greg, and Sam's classes, all prana flow. Former dancers, this is for you. If injured and new to yoga, probably not for you because there's a lot of asymmetric movement. 5. For creative, never the same twice flows with a lot of fire and funk, go to Gopi's class. She will identify your alignment challenges and push your edge. 6. For physically challenging, fun classes: Brittanie (very funny and knowledgeable). And advanced yogis who love inversions? -- Krista is your girl! Gail is the queen of ashtanga yoga in DC, and you will get lots of assists in her relatively fast-paced class. 7. Really tight or exhausted? Try yin with Manesha. It's super meditative and will stretch your fascia as well as muscles, while cooling your mind. Be aware that level 1.5 is intermediate, not really beginner at all. I don't know the other teachers as well, but have no doubt they are also wonderful. Have fun! read more

Another reviewer sums it up perfectly. This is a commercial yoga studio. I know that all yoga studios are around to make money, but it often feels like that's the only goal at Flow. Other studios make you feel welcomed and calm. Flow is just brusque and hectic now. Their classes are expensive and they pack you in to the point where you can barely move. The classes are so crowded that students from the next class rush in the second we're done with shavasana and hover until you move to claim a spot, much like people do at crowded bars when they want your table. I went to a beginner's yoga class with my friend who had never done yoga before, and there were so many people that the teacher wasn't able to interact with anyone at all. Since my friend needed help with some of the poses (it was beginner's yoga) and the teacher was so far on the other side of the large room the entire time, I tried to help my friend. The only time the instructor came near us at all was to tell me that my friend was fine and didn't need my help, then she walked away. Further, the studio can be intimidating and unfriendly and the front desk staff are often brusque. I'm giving the studio 3 stars, because it used to be really good before it "commercialized" and every once in awhile you still have a really great class that makes you remember how nice it used to be. read more

Yelpie Confession: I, too, need to caveat my yoga studio reviews by stating that I am a yoga teacher, trained at the 200hr level in Kundalini and general Hatha yoga, and now in a 500hr training in at a studio (outside of DC) with an Anusara focus. If you don't know what this means, then the short of it is that I like to look at alignment, sequencing, breath, and I love chanting and meditation. That sums up my teaching style. So anything that doesn't include most of these elements will pretty much be lacking for me. I find it challenging to review yoga studios because going to a yoga class is so much about the connection between the student and teacher. So I'll separate my review into "studio space and concept" and "teachers". Space and Concept: Flow Yoga Center teaches Vinyasa Hatha Yoga, although the teachers have backgrounds ranging from Anusara to Ashtanga and will therefore have a different take on the vinyasa idea. Because of my own preferred asana practice, I'm not a big fan of constantly moving between postures without steady alignment cues, resting with postures to explore them on a deeper level, and providing significant modifications using props for those who should be exploring a different krama (step or stage) of a pose. There's a real sense of community built into FYC. You walk up the narrow purple stairs towards the statue of Ganesha, who greets you as you enter you and sees you off with protection and guidance into the crazy streets of DC. Once up the stairs, you'll find the desk, always staffed with lovely and helpful people, a small shopping space (yes, another studio that must tempt our practice of the yamas and niyamas), and a small space for waiting and congregation. While sitting on colorful cushioned benches, you can peruse yoga and enviro-conscious magazines, munch on juicy grapes, and hydrate with herbal tea and water. There are 3 studios, all very nice, with bamboo flooring, and a wonderful vibe. None are very big, so the earlier recommendation to get there early, especially for late afternoon/evening classes, should be strictly adhered to if you want to get a space. It can get crowded here. Overall, FYC is a lovely space with a strong eco-conscious and sustainability focus. Teachers: I have taken classes with Gopi, Mike, Erin, Megan, Angela, and Debra (the founder and owner). They each have a different style that will appeal to different people. I love Gopi as a person. The way she teaches a flow is not how I prefer, even for level 2+ practitioners, but her energy and radiance are very unique. Erin and Megan are good, but I didn't get anything different from them than I would from any other vinyasa flow class. Angela has an interesting style, given her background, and her level 3 class can be really good. I'm not a fan of Mike...our energies do not mix well at all. His classes are physically challenging, but I just can't get into him. Debra is a great teacher. She weaves spiritual teachings throughout the class, which is a huge plus for me. Her music choices are generally inspiring, as well. Again, however, there is not as much of a focus on alignment within postures as I would like (yes, you can do this in a flow class), and even though one might think that intermediate practitioners have all of the alignment stuff down, that's not the case at all, mostly because of how refined alignment in asana actually is. Basically, try out a number of teachers if you don't feel completely inspired by your first FYC experience. My first class at FYC was with Erin, then with Mike, and it wasn't until recently that I got around to Debra. Let's just say this: I'm a Thursday eve convert!! read more

For me true yoga is the ability to acknowledge the incredible yuppieness of this block and let it go... sans sarcasm. So I do my very best to walk by the precious vintage furniture store with its trendy mid-century modern designs, ignore lululemon, forget the kale salad at Sweet Green, say no to Whole Foods and walk straight into this yoga studio. It is lovely and amazingly yoga bullshit free. Classes range from the highly intense Rocket Ashtanga style (which has changed my life) to the more introspective sorts scattered with breakthrough moments - Jivamukti. Jivamukti may be slower paced but incredible and yes also life changing in a different way. The intro package at $45 for one month unlimited is a steal! Grab it! And let's face it, indulging in all those yuppie places listed in paragraph one will make it so much easier for you to look and sound like a real millennial even if you're an ageing generation Xer, so if that's your goal, this is your holy grail. read more

Whenever I'm back in DC, I try to get to Flow at least once! Debra (owner) and the whole crew have created something quite special. Each teacher brings something unique to the table. Jill Abelson's Jivamukti class is a must take for (somewhat) more advanced yogis and yoginis. read more