Took the Wednesday 9:30am Gentle Vinyasa class with Gemma and it was fantastic. It was my first real yoga class I have taken in more years than I care to remember and she did a fantastic job guiding it and teaching it. I am looking forward to going back for another class with her as soon as possible. She's a great instructor I highly recommend her class if you are a beginner or are further along in your yoga practice also. read more

I liked the yoga instructor but recommend getting to class early to secure a good spot. It gets very crowded. Also parking is street parking so make sure you pay for EVERY minute or you'll get a parking ticket like me! read more

I took a break from Gratitude, glad to be back. I'm sore everywhere, but in a good way, and have joked that it's my "death by yoga" class, as in the "la petite mort" version. Gemma's vinyasa classes are hard, including her "gentle vinyasa" class. You will sweat buckets, and that's no exaggeration. Maybe there are a handful of people who don't break a sweat in her extremely popular classes, but I'm not one of them. Some things to keep in mind: 1. Show up 5-10 minutes early to get your spot, it will fill up. 2. The class might start a few minutes late, end 10-20 minutes later than scheduled--important if you're feeding a meter. 3. Check your ego & anxiety at the door. There will be people more fit than you, at 1/3 or 2x your age--we are each going for the same reasons: mental & physical health. Do your modifications, take a breather, it's all cool, no judgement. If someone does judge you, it's their problem, not yours, so who cares? 4. Take your time. I'm no weakling & have taken well over a thousand yoga classes during the past 3 years, in addition to my other fitness routines, and these classes are still hard. 5. Drink plenty of water 6. Enjoy the happy glow that can last at least another full day Bonus: my husband is happy that I'm enjoying yoga again, instead of feeling grumpy due to issues at another studio. There's no sink, so bring a spray bottle & wash cloth to mop up yourself afterwards. Single classes are $12, a 20 pass is $200, unlimited is $95; prices cheaper if you're a student. Entrance on Tulane. read more

First yoga session since moving to Princeton. Decided to try the Friday 5pm Vinyasa Yoga class with 2 of my friends. The entrance is somewhat hidden in a narrow alley with a propped sign that says "Gratitude Yoga". Upon entering, we were greeted by our instructor Greg. He asked if it was our first time doing yoga and suggested that the class can be quite intense. And intense it was. In a serene dark lit medium sized room, we did downward dog, cobra, warrior I/II/III, and a variety of body contortions for what seemed like eternity (a whole hour). Greg was very attentive, motivational, and took the time to adjust/correct our stances/positions as necessary. By the end, I was drenched in sweat and it seemed every muscle in my body was fully stretched out. There's a suggested $12 donation per class. Fun energetic crowd. Instantly made some friends with the other yoga-ers. The owner Gemma was also very friendly and warm and I have been receiving email alerts from her for various outdoor yoga in the garden events. read more

Gratitude Yoga - Yoga Near Me - Princeton, New Jersey

I personally love this place, great location and good instruction. I've tried a few places in the area and couldn't be happier. Pro - Awesome location (Peaceful) - Nice Staff - Easy Parking - Great Instructors Con - Could be better pricing and plans - Bathroom is small and sometimes a little dirty (better cleaning crew?) read more

This is one of the best yoga spots in Princeton! We loved going here while we lived there but after we moved it became too far. Although we still find ourselves driving the 35 min to get to Princeton to take a class with Gemma! She is a wonderful Instructor and her personality is even more amazing! She is so sweet and remembers everyone's name while in a class! I know they just moved to a new location, I haven't been there yet- but ill go check it out soon! Congrats on the new place Gemma! Sending so much love your way! read more

Samuel is an extraordinary teacher for people who are interested in being true students of yoga. His credentials in the yoga community around here are almost unmatched, and no one is teaching the way he is. If you are looking for an intense, spiritually awakening practice that will help you achieve an altered state of consciousness through chanting, pranayama, and asanas (which may or may not be for you!) then you need to come see Samuel. I have learned much from him over the years, have had very effective massage and sound therapy sessions with him, and have attended his live musical meditation performances. I have brought many of my friends and family members to his classes for the eye opening experience of practicing with him. Be prepared and have an open mind! Gemma is also the most wonderful person and has a beautiful space for her students and teachers to practice yoga together. read more

Gemma's vinyasa class is the best i have ever taken. Intense, very challenging, makes every part of your body work hard. Bring a towel cause you are going to sweat like crazy! I recommend that they provide wipes to clean the mats before and after the class. I feel bad when I cannot disinfect my mat after my workout, and I feel bad when I pick one at the beginning of class. Other than that it is an absolutely amazing place! read more

I just finished a class here and have very mixed feelings about the experience... The only reason I'm not giving 1 star is because I can tell Gemma is truly a caring, kind soul and she has a lot of love to give to the world. Also, it was a nice little studio. However! DO NOT COME HERE if you: - are a beginner or relatively new to yoga - want to focus on alignment - would like to prevent injury The Vinyasa class felt more like a cardio bootcamp than yoga. I've practiced with many instructors and this was the fastest paced class I've ever taken, in a bad way. Instructions were given so quickly I did not have time to align into the pose properly. Whenever I looked around, half the class was lost and confused. It was the most frustrating (and not challenging) class I've ever taken. There was zero emphasis on form to protect your back and knees from injuries. I've never been told to do bicycle crunches or squats in a yoga class before. The entire hour really threw me off and I left feeling more uneasy than relaxed. I really wanted to like this place because I love the gratitude concept and Gemma is very nice, but I definitely won't be back. read more

Pardon the pun, but I've got nothing but gratitude for this place--for the wonderful classes and instructors, for giving me some strength/flexibility, and definitely for being by-donation only (suggested $12 that you put in a box before class)! Going to Friday morning gentle vinyasa after a short run is a great way to end the week. The weekend vinyasa classes (always very popular) always leave me refreshed and feeling zen for a day of doing nothing. My favorite instructor is the mystical Gemma, who's everything a yoga teacher should be, always extremely welcoming and encouraging. There are mats to borrow for those who don't have them. A minor complaint is that classes often don't start or end on time. You definitely have to block off 1hr 45 min-2 hours for the 75 minute class. read more

Been looking for a challenging yoga studio and Gratitude definitely delivers. I have been to many yoga studios in LA and OC and Greg, Gemma, and Jen definitely guarantee great, sweaty, yoga workout. They teach yoga with a mix of Pilates in a pretty heated room. Cost : $12 donation (amazing price) Changing room available Cubbies available for items Yoga mats available to borrow : free but very stinky - even the "clean" ones Bring a towel...you WILL sweat Use back entrance (follow the signs) it's behind the tea shop read more

Gemma is the owner and an am amazing teacher. Love her vinyasa classes. Great vibe, classes usually very full, beautiful studio

Samuel is a good teacher but a little too much talking. Some of the subs were not that great but you expect that from subs. Gemma is a very good teacher and I really enjoyed her class. One thing I do not like, as with most yoga studios in a shopping center or retail setting is that space is limited, is that there are no windows. It can get a little stuffy when the class is full. This is also the same reason I do not like gym yoga classes. read more

Samuel is one of the best yoga teacher, i followed him many years, his inspirational uplifting energy, his amazing practice. Samuel is a great teacher! read more

I practiced regularly at Gratitude a few years back, and reflect fondly on my experience there - particularly with Samuel. His classes are steeped in tradition and true to the Teachings of Ashtanga yoga. His classes are not for the weary or those looking for bolsters and blankets to camp out on. No, what he offers is tough love - the tapas, or discipline inherent in this style of flow. His classes are safe, inspiring, and yes uncomfortable all with the intention of guiding the student toward a breakthrough. His love and passion for what he teaches planted the seed for my trajectory and I now share it with others in my own classes in Boston. read more

Took a class from Dagmar who is an excellent instructor and very welcoming and kind. My next class was from this clown named Samuel who was the worst yoga instructor I have ever had. He is rude, condescending and arrogant. Do not take his class if you would like to keep your equanimity or strengthen your practice. What a tool. I am surprised he is allowed to teach here. I have heard good things about the other instructors. The reception area is fine and the studio is clean and spacious. read more

This place is despicable. I've never gone to a yoga studio that thinks it's too good for certain people. I was invited to go to a class by a couple of friends. Granted I arrived a few minutes late, the "instructor" was completely disrespectful to me, and after only a few minutes, told me I didn't know what I was doing and I had to leave. Last time I ever go near that place. I've never written a yelp review, but then again, I've never been so offended either. So I guess there's a first time for everything. read more

Best yoga ever, esp with Gemma. The subs are meh. It is not only a great workout but a mentally philosophically inspiring space, all thanks to Gemma. Samuel's classes are good, too, but he can talk too much. The best in Princeton! read more

Friday night Hot Yoga- what a way to end the week. I love that this class starts at 7:45 so you can leave work and still have plenty of time to get there in the right frame of mind. Paulette was a good teacher, too. The class was full but not overly crowded. The hot yoga is a warm room but not the hottest of the hot yoga's I've visited. Still, the heat accomplished what it should but never left me feeling nauseous or wilted on the mat. The room, the whole place in fact, had a nice aesthetic that adds to the experience. What impressed me the most is the honor system on which they operate. It forces one to think about the way in which you live your life- being generous, being trusting- in addition to the yoga practice for your body. read more

Great studio with lots of love and amazing teachers. Samuel, in particular, has been my friend and teacher for the past few years. He has a wonderful gift and great depth of knowledge. I am an advanced student and appreciate his holistic approach to yoga. His class may not always be suited for beginners or those looking for gentle yoga. Though I would come just to experience the sound therapy and mantra! It is refreshing to work with a teacher who teaches much more than asana alone, his class also offers pranayama, Sanskrit, kriya and more. read more

I was in Princeton to work for a week, and made it to the Thursday 6pm class. It was awesome, very challenging with some interesting new poses I hadn't done before. It was kind of hard to find, but the people were very nice and it was a great class. They loaned me a mat, no charge. I will definitely go back when I am here working. read more

Took a thursday class, i came in stressed abt my day rushing to get there on time and i left feeling relaxed. Will do again

Gratitude yoga is a special yoga studio. Gemma and Samuel teach classes that are consistent, authentic, and make you sweat! If you want a mind,body, soul practice, this is the place. Samuel's classes are pure yoga. He is a strong and kind teacher. His teaching keep you honest to your practice and yourself. A true yoga experience that's hard to find. Gemma is an angel and an excellent teacher. She is amazing how she can give precise queues quickly as she teaches. She is so sweet, but will truly challenge you. Lots of gratitude for Gratitude yoga! read more

I have been taking Samuel's classes for over 3 years now and a pretty regular to his Friday evening class at Gratitude and have always enjoyed his classes as he is extremely knowledgable and not only does he challenge us with our yoga practice but he teaches about things regarding out practice and the meanings behind various poses and more. Furthermore, he incorporates sound therapy to the practice adding another element that adds immensely to the practice. Thanks Samuel for ALL that you do and the impact on our well-being! Deanna read more

I have practiced yoga in both NYC and Princeton, I find Gratitude Yoga one of my fav - I categorize it as more advanced, not as much for beginners. I find it just the right yoga practice for me and Gemma is not only a great yoga teach, but she also always smiles & lifts up the atmosphere and remembers students by name :) read more

Absolutely awesome. I tend to favor more gym work outs and running but I'm always up for anything active. This was perfect. The core work out was great. It feels like I got a great work out and a full body massage all in one. 5 stars read more

Let me start by saying I've practiced yoga since I was a child and I'm now 47. I've been taught by countless instructors and experienced yoga in many different settings. Gemma is a lovely person, take a class with her if you can. Sadly, she sublets her studio to a judgemental hipster twerp who bills himself as a shaman. When I entered the studio I asked him where to sign in. I did so and put my money in the basket in front of him and walked into the room to set up my mat. I came straight from work so I had all of my valuables on me. There are 4 students in the room so its virtually empty with plenty if room to move. He starts with me by saying that I'm not allowed to keep my yoga bag in the room with me because of the energy. I told him that I did not feel comfortable leaving my stuff in the lobby during the 2 hour practice (they leave the front door open with no receptionist so anyone can walk right in) so, feeling put off, told me to put it in a room behind the studio. Remember that part about being 4 of us? Well one moron didn't sign in. I was approached 2x asking if I had signed in and confirmed both times. And right in front of him not 5 minutes before. Then he asked me if I paid. With a snarky tone in his voice implying that I hadn't. Of course I had -- do the math it's not that difficult with his huge following of 4 people. But his attitude doesn't stop there. He then informs me that I need to move my mat, which was placed along the back left wall, to the center of the room. I have problems with balance and need to be near a wall so he just gave me a dirty look. Then he instructs the young girl in front of me to switch places with me...I said what difference does it make? Again he referred to some mystical energy. Apparently he's quite magical. He goes on to announce that this is HIS studio and if I don't like it too bad. (Hmmm and I'm the one with the ego?) At this point I've had enough of this controlling pompous jerk and asked for my money back. When we go out to the lobby he reaches into a closet (funny his valuables are safe but students things are out in the open) to very slowly peel off 10 sweaty dollars and hand them to me. He starts to explain that he performs some shamanic wizardry and having me move 2 feet forward and leaving my money out for the taking is what the spirits call for. I'm paraphrasing of course because the entire scenario was completely ludicrous. I will never return, nor will I continue to refer people after this, and why should I when there are so many places to choose from that treat people with respect? read more

I started practicing hot yoga six months ago at a neighboring town and decided to check out studios closer to my house. I practice yoga because I enjoy its healing power for the body and the mind. Unfortunately, I did not find that in the class led by Samuel. He has completely lost sight of what yoga is all about. The two stars represent my overall experience. Please see detailed breakdown below: The location: 3.5 stars. The studio shares the building with the teashop on Witherspoon Street. The entrance is, however, located in the back of the building. Follow the signs. You will find it easily. Make sure you get there early enough to find parking. Meters and parking garages are just steps away, but good luck finding one. The studio: 3.5 stars. There is plenty of space for jackets, shoes and personal belongings. However, I would not bring my wallet or valuables because they don't lock the door during the practice. The studio is simple, spacious and clean. Bathroom (which is very clean as well) is located inside the teashop, not part of the studio. The toilet was not working properly. It required a small fix. The practice: 2 stars. Since this is my first time to hot vinyassa, I was at the back of the class. The practice is basically a fast paced power yoga mingled with some core exercises, heavy breathing and some chanting. It requires the instructor to constantly gives out commands for the different poses, so there was practically no time for him to give verbal cues for proper alignments or correct postures. I tried to follow the more experienced practitioners, but it seemed that everybody just did their own things. The instructor: 1 star. It is unclear why Samuel chose to teach yoga to make a living. He has superior technical skills, but he is unfit for teaching. He was rude, condescending and self-centered. He plays electronic dance music during the practice, which overpowered his voice at times. "I'm sorry about the music, guys. After teaching yoga for 7 hours today, I had to do something for myself..." (REALLY???) Since I was new to the class, sometimes, I had to watch other students before I was able to engage in some unfamiliar postures. "I know it is your first time here. If you don't know how to do it, just watch others and follow them. Don't just don't do it. It is not THAT kind of a class!" I was about to ask him which student I should observe as a model, since everybody looked different for most poses. He ignored me. Later, he walked over without eye contact, walked around me and then away again before he turned around, looking down at me and said, "You can ask your questions after class..." As if my experience wasn't bad enough, I received an email receipt from the studio after class. I gave Samuel a $20 bill before class. (Suggested donation is $12.) He didn't have the change, so I asked him to keep the money and give me the change later. The email receipt stated that I paid $10. Where did the remaining $10 go??? I will never return to this studio again. read more

I have recently moved out of the Princeton Area to north jersey but i must say I will miss this place more than anything else. I have been taking classes here when i can for the past two years and every single time has been an amazing experience. It was always a delight to take on of Gemma's classes (which made me really put the work in while staying still in my mind!) or even just cross her path. She has a truly beautiful soul that shines through in her classes and her studio. I love the various classes they offer and especially the special ones that pop up! I will say that have been practicing for about 3.5 years consistently in and out of the classroom and so though I felt challenged, it was never a stressful experience. I have also taken friends with me to class who have no experience with yoga or movement and they enjoyed the challenge and have gone back on their own time. I would mention though I wish alignment was a bigger focus in many of the classes. As a dancer, I know how important it is for the body to be properly aligned and many times i felt like a slight adjustment could have been made during the classes (as yoga and dance have various differences in terms of alignment which i like to address). My favorite class however, is the Sunday meditations. Have met some truly great individuals in the class and have left each time feeling as though i went through a well-needed catharsis. If you can, please go to a class, you will not be disappointed. read more

Samuel teaches yoga traditionally and authentically. He is the most experienced and knowledgeable teacher I know and I learnt everything from him. I feel honored and most grateful to have crossed paths with him a few years ago because, otherwise, I would have never known what the real yoga is. Admittedly - not everybody is ready for him. read more

I love these classes. They are tough and not for the weak of heart, but Samuel is a great teacher. When I Injured my back he taught me ways to modify the poses so that I could continue to strengthen myself and my practice. I also really love the sound meditations. Gratitude has a great group of teachers and Samuel is my favorite. read more

Samuel has worked with me privately as well as in a class. He introduced the healing power of yoga with patience and a positivity helping me gain strength and control. If you're looking to feel revitalized I highly recommend a class or a private session with Samuel! read more

Gemma's classes are excellent. It's a fast vinyasa flow, and while this may not be your thing it is the rest of Princeton's -- her classes are packed. And with good reason, she's very kind and leads an extremely solid, strong practice. I've been practicing yoga for many years and she is a great teacher. Highly recommend. read more

I have been going to gratitude yoga for the last 3 years and it has changed my life. I look forward to the challenging classes every week and the lovely community at gratitude. Gemma and Samuel's vinyasa classes are my favorite because they are the most difficult, but there are truly classes for everyone. read more

I have taken several classes with Gemma, and I have enjoyed them all immensely. Gemma's vinyasa classes move fast and really feel like a workout. As a runner, I often have very tight hip flexors and I think her classes are the perfect complement to the rest of my exercise routine. They are often rather busy, and they tend to run late (more time with Gemma = no complaints here!). Gemma has a very gentle presence and it never feels like she is drilling the class, despite the classes' intensity. read more

I love this studio. I've been taking Samuel's class for several years and it is the most authentic and transformative yoga experience I've ever had. If you're looking for a class that leaves you feeling better leaving than when you arrived, Samuel's class is just that. He goes above and beyond for his students by incorporating pranayama techniques, meditation and chanting during the class. I've never been to another yoga class where the teacher has used singing bowls and instruments all with the loving intention to provide healing and spiritual awakening to those in class. Samuel is very seasoned in teaching yoga and has studied with yoga masters. He truly cares about the spiritual progression of each of his students. He facilitates a sense of oneness among all of his students and you leave feeling transformed. I highly recommend if you're not afraid to delve into your self and push yourself physically, mentally and spiritually to initiate real change. read more

The truth is that I'm a better person thanks to classes led by Samuel Steward! Life has dealt me plenty of ups and downs but I know that I can find peace and solace every time that I roll out my mat in his class. Am I the most flexible person on earth? No. Can I do crow pose? No. Can I do foot-behind-the-head pose? No. But I can BREATHE. I can LAUGH at myself. I can LEARN and, in my mind, I can levitate like nobody's business. Over the many years of taking yoga with Samuel, I've learned to listen but not always follow his instruction (gasp, it's true!). In the end, it's all about knowing yourself, your limits and how to modify the poses to meet your needs. Do I get confused? Often but that's OK. No one is judging. Do I take class seriously? Yes and no. If I lose my balance, which happens often, I can't help but laugh. Not a big disruptive guffaw but definitely a smile and a chuckle. Do I cry? Sure. Some days I get swept away and transported in the spiritual sound journey that makes him special and unique among yoga instructors. Is he One-Of-A-Kind? Most definitely!! read more