Prana Yoga + Wellbeing has been my practicing studio for about 6 years. This place has amazing instructors, good class times and a good yoga community. read more

The class was good and the instructor seemed knowledgeable. I liked the calm peaceful and clean setting. This is more of a review based on how welcome I felt. I came to the studio and granted I should have arrived early to acclimate myself I arrived on time. The class was already seated and I walked into the studio with my things. Before the instructor said hi she said you can't wear your shoes in here. Ok but what happens now she saw my confused look and directed me to the lobby I put my shoes away and my things then she went to the front of the class I had to ask a student about a mat and props. I set myself up and class went on and it was fine. After class I was rolling up my strap and someone told me I was rolling it wrong. Ok so I unrolled what I had already rolled up and started how he instructed another student pointed out ' we all help each other' ok great so then I rolled up my matt and yet another student points out I need to clean it. Which I would do but I didn't immediately see any cleaner available several other students then chimed in you need to clean your mat. Yes fine but how? Nobody really knew so then I guess that a table set up near me was for that purpose. All of these practices are fine. But I would be nice to instruct people before hand so they don't feel like everything they do is wrong and feel like everything they do is wrong. I am unsure if I would return here again it seems like these students have been together for awhile and maybe they don't want new people. ‍ read more

I love this yoga studio. The teachers are great and the community of fellow yogi's are also great. They accommodate, "yoga for any body" with props and guidance. I also, enjoy the retreats they offer. read more

I love this studio. I just started attending but having a great experience so far. I love the location and parking is easy.

This is my favorite yoga studio in the Bay Area so far! I've been to a handful, but none are as clean, friendly, welcoming, and challenging as this studio. They offer so many different classes to choose from which makes it easy for any yogi at any stage to take a class and feel comfortable. I have taken many classes here, and Nancy is always so sweet and helpful in class. She pays attention to her students to make sure they avoid injury and are getting the most out of the class. If you haven't been here before, take a class with Nancy and she will make you feel at home. I really appreciate when teachers do this, versus just going through the flow without checking on students. I recommend this studio to all friends and will definitely be back!! read more

Prana Yoga Wellbeing - Yoga Near Me - Castro Valley, California

I was in a class recently when Cindy Keune was teaching. It was the worst class I ever took at Castro Valley Yoga. In the class, Cindy focused on forward bending. I've really enjoyed the forward bending practice with other teachers, but it was much different in Cindy's class. Actually, the class was extremely unpleasant and far from peaceful. The following description is a summary of what I experienced in Cindy's class. She began the class by saying that each of us needs to listen to our own body, but then she forced me to use props (block, straps or blanket) very inappropriately. She asked me to use two blankets for alignment of my pelvis and sacrum. I told her that I preferred not to and that I was already properly aligned for Dandasana. She picked up one blanket and threw it on my mat and said sternly, "Use one at least, thank you." We were asked to bend forward for Paschimottanasana. Since I have practiced yoga for many years, my chest fully reaches my knees with proper alignment. But she negatively commented, "We don't come down too much." What kind of teacher would discourage and diminish the full expression of an asana? My practice and dedication should not be disparaged because of the teacher's ego! During the Trikonasana, she instructed us to add any variation. So I made a transition to Parivrtta Trikonasana, and she again commented, "Twisting is for a student under 20 years old." (I was the only one doing a twist, and I'm in my mid-40's.) How inappropriate for a teacher to make such an ignorant comment, even if it was a joke! And that was not the end of it yet.... She really angered me another time when she wanted us to use blocks. I responded that I would use my cork blocks, but she told me not to. She insisted that I should use a foam block and went back and forth with me about it during class. I said I can manage it. Nonetheless, she brought a foam block over to me and insisted that I use it. Now she had placed all these props around me that I didn't ask for or need, and then at the end of class I needed to place all the props back on the shelf. Someone might ask me, "How do you know whether or not you need a prop? How do you know if your alignment is proper without it?" I have the credentials to support this review of my horrible experience in Cindy's class. I completed my 500 hour yoga teacher training in 2017 with US and Canadian teachers, and on top of that, I'm a licensed chiropractor. My constructive criticism is based on this training. Props are good for helping you to reach or get close to the proper alignment without stressing the musculoskeletal structure of your body. Props need not be placed if the student can get to the asana (any pose) with reasonable alignment and can synchronize the breath with the movement without violating Ahimsa (harming or injuring). The yoga teacher should respect each student and support their practice without forcing or demanding. Forcing and demanding will only create a non-peaceful environment and atmosphere, which needs to be avoided in any yoga class in order to support the students' growth in practice. Hope this review helps anyone thinking about taking Cindy Keune's class at Castro Valley Yoga. I do not recommend Cindy's class to advanced and intermediate practitioners. read more

I was suggested to do yoga because I had pulled muscle almost two years ago. I started with Bikram yoga then moved to this studio and totally fell in love! Most teachers here are very nice and attentive. They pay attention at you at all time. Another thing I love about this place is there are varieties of poses in each class unlike Bikram which you do the same poses every class. I usually take Hatha class with Susan twice a week and I love it that's why I have been coming for almost two years regularly. Fortunately I had a chance to try rope class with Andrea today and it was amazing! read more

Prana Yoga Wellbeing - Yoga Near Me - Castro Valley, California

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It's not related to the quality of classes there, but to the customer service. They asked me to leave my purse outside of the studio. I explained that I had a recent experience of my wallet being stolen from another yoga studio outside, and I honestly did not feel comfortable. Still they did not let me take it into the studio. So I had to take it to my car. Five minutes after that I witness people coming in with their purses inside so I left the studio and brought it back. They apologized and allowed me to take it in because they overheard my conversation. Anyways, the class was great, but this left a feeling of being treated differently and singled out. This is definitely not a welcoming attitude one expects from a yoga place. So definitely not coming back, don't want to have this feeling again. read more

Jenna leads a late PM teacher's yoga class on wed. We talk about bringing mindfulness to the classroom. And then do some yoga. Great way to break up the week. Its a clean quiet space with ample parking. I've enjoyed practicing here for over a year. HAPPY TO BE A PART OF THEIR COMMUNITY read more

I tried Yoga on the rope wall today with Andrea and had a great time! The studio is small but beautiful and very relaxing. The rope wall class was fun and challenging, just whati I was hoping for. I'll be back! read more

Prana Yoga Wellbeing - Yoga Near Me - Castro Valley, California

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Very calming, clean, and professional studio. Caring owners who are wholly dedicated to the practice and community.

I attended the restorative practice last night. I didn't expect that it was going to be super slow-paced. Like sleeping yoga. After the practice, I refreshed and went to bed. I had a full 9 hours of sleep, with no interruptions. My mind and body are super healed in the morning. Feel so refreshed. read more

One of the best decisions of my life was start to do yoga I'm so happy I found this place on Yelp. The teachers are all amaizing, fun and the classes are super clean and definitely 5 stars for you all. I'm highly recommended on Castro valley yoga to all my friends Thank you.! read more

I've taken a dozen classes here so far with various instructors. PROS: -love the variety of yoga classes (vinyasa, hatha, alignment based, raja, or heated, etc) -instructors are great -schedule -class size (largest has been 10 students, smallest was 1) -great props offered -lots of parking -VERY reasonable pricing (first month unlimited $40, after that $70) CONS: -no major con, but my only suggestion is if it's the heated class, would love to see it up to 77 degrees as stated on website. Think it's usually lower than 77. Other than that, love this studio. read more

After moving from San Francisco I needed a new yoga studio. I found Castro Valley Yoga when I was about 6 months pregnant so I started with their prenatal class. April and Emily are great teachers! The classes were great and super relaxing especially for my sciatica pain. When I had to stop yoga due to a pregnancy-related disability, they were great about letting me pause my membership. Now that I am able to practice again, I am happy to be back. The studio is always clean and it is quite spacious. They also lock the front door after the start of each class so your personal items are safe. I can't wait to try their other classes. read more

The studio itself is a clean and inviting space to practice yoga. I was excited to try it out based on Yelp reviews and purchased the new student promo, which allows you to attend two classes for $16. I first attended Nancy Leigh - Smith's Thursday afternoon Alignment Class. She was welcoming, helped me get set up as a new customer and while I am use to a very athletic approach to yoga (Power Vinyasa, Bikram, etc) she was an expert at helping me with my alignment in each pose. If my review was based solely on this experience, I would give a higher rank. However, tonight I attended Susan Child's Hatha class. Walking into class, I had my yoga bag, keys + water bottle in my hand. A woman sitting in a chair called out after me, "You need to scan your card!". Surprised at her stern command, I asked if it was OK if I can set my stuff down first. When I came back a moment later, I asked if she was the teacher. She said yes. No welcome, no introduction, no asking my name. Did she think I was going to try and "sneak" a class? That would never, ever be my intention. I teach yoga too!! I've never felt so unwelcome in a studio & couldn't place why she was so cold with me. My emotional reaction was to pack up and leave but I decided to make my practice the best it could be and simply never return to this studio. read more

I attempted to join another yoga studio closer to me, but they were rude so I simply left and continued my search for another yoga studio. Took me mooonths but I finally tried Castro Valley Yoga and I LOVE it! It's my get away from the real world. All instructors are knowledgable and very helpful to adjust you during your practice. What sold me was 1. Reasonable Pricing 2. Yoga times fit with my schedule 3. Location 4. Variety of classes I am so very happy to find somewhere I can continue my practice. read more

I haven't been able to practice yoga for 7+ years, so I've been nervous to go back. But I got the $39 for the first unlimited month and have LOVED it. I tried a few different classes and the instructors are all wonderful, but APRIL is absolutely amazing!! Her class is so wonderful for me, both physically and spiritually. She does a great job at catering to all levels, so I feel comfortable even though I'm not very strong or flexible. Her class is truly nourishing to my soul, and now I will definitely be a life long client here! read more

Castro Valley Yoga is one, if not the best Yoga studio in the Bay Area! The teachers, the classes and the other students make such a wonderful community. My boyfriend and I joined the studio together and love practicing something that is healthy and a fun to do together. We not only felt so welcomed by other students but every teacher made us feel totally comfortable with all different types and levels of yoga practice. I cannot say enough positive things about Castro Valley Yoga and so thankful we found it! 10/10 read more

This studio is clean, has updated equipment, and mat daily rentals for a fair price! I did a drop in class here and I really enjoyed the class and my teacher. We began with a short mindfulness meditation and then moved on to various stretches using blocks, straps, the wall, and blankets. If I lived closer, I would have tried the one month unlimited special for only $30 and tried all the classes! I loved how there were no mirrors and that the students practiced facing one another. read more

Clean studio with lots of new props! April is a great teacher and provided upleveling for those who were more advanced. Lots of classes throughout the day to boot! read more

I used to go here for the gentle yoga classes. It's not bad. I think I paid $12 per session. The instructors are really good and patient. I have been to yoga classes where the instructor just zooms forward with their agenda regardless of skill of the students. This place tailors the classes with alternative poses for the inflexible. On the other hand, there are plenty of advanced students and they seem to enjoy it as well. This is a small studio but well equipped and comfortable. Parking is best on the street since the lot in back is real tight. read more

This is the best yoga studio around east bay! They offer a variety of classes: iyengar (alignment based), beginners, Pilates, prenatal, hatha, vinyasa flow, and the list keeps growing with a soon to be ashtanga class. CVY also host an array of workshops; like my new favorite, yin with sound bath and reiki. The instructors are caring, thoughtful, and very welcoming. April and Bridget are great owners and instructors. They have an unbeatable introductory pass for only $39 for unlimited classes for a month! read more

very clean, nice teachers....relaxing peaceful... love this place!!!!!!

I am from out of town and had the opportunity to visit this studio recently. Great instructors and great class. Would recommend this yoga studio to anyone in the area. If I lived closer I would be a regular. Thank you! read more

I am new to yoga and struggle with the idea of taking a class in a studio. I decided to conquer my fear and take a yoga class for beginners at Castro Valley Yoga. My nerves quickly went away when I was greeted with warm smiles. My yoga instructor was easy to follow and I felt she helped me transition into positions without being confused. Overall my experience was positive and enjoyable. I look forward to many more. read more

This is a little gem in CV! Warm, highly skilled instructors, responsive staff, peaceful and well-equipped setting. I have been doing both Hatha and prenatal yoga, and thoroughly enjoy and recommend both for expecting moms. Looking forward to a continued yoga practice post-baby as well. read more

I just signed up for there monthly pass. The classes are taught by wonderful teachers! I have been to different classes here, and loved all of them. This place is good for beginners like myself, or any level you may be! read more

I hate to poorly review the whole studio for the actions of one instructor, but it's the studio owner's responsibility to hire reliable people. I have been to Castro Valley Yoga three times for their Saturday midday pre-natal class. Two of the three times, there was no instructor to teach the class. The first time she was a no-show, the instructor from the earlier class looked it up online to show it was "cancelled" on the schedule. It must have been cancelled just that morning, because I had looked it up the day before. Well, second time I thought I'd learned my lesson, by signing up online for the class ahead of time AND checking online to make sure it was still going to happen about an hour before class. Three women showed up for that class, and no instructor... What a waste of time, money and effort. I took time away from my family, drove to Castro Valley in the middle of a Saturday for two classes that never happened. read more

I really love coming to this studio, it is so comfortable! Yes, it is definitely on the small side, but most classes don't get too full, so it doesn't really pose a problem. There are a variety of styles offered, and the teachers each bring something unique to their classes. And the best part? It is probably the least expensive studio you'll find--perfect for students like myself. The fact that they haven't raised their prices (at least for the past five years that I've been going) really demonstrates their love for teaching and practicing yoga. read more

Took a class through ClassPass, LOVED it. What a great, mindful, relaxing teacher. Thank you! I will be back :)

I had the luck to study dance and yoga with Susan many moons ago and because of her attention to detail and her willingness to challenge students to push themselves, question themselves and to accept nothing less than their own personal best - without getting hung up on their own rigid self definitions and egos was the foundation for my own career in dance and fitness instruction. She pulled me back from cheating myself and the stretches, relying on joint and natural flexibility (a great way to injure your spine and knees) rather than true strength and taught me to relearn what I thought I already knew stronger, better and in a way that I'm still dancing and teaching over ten years later. She is first class. While it may be tempting to scratch the surface and write off the spicy bits as being personal or being a shortcoming on the part of the instructor, the proof for me has been in a lifetime of results. Her from the hip commentary, sharp wit and ability to be fearless in tackling tough topics makes her a teacher of note and any establishment to boast her experience lucky to have her. I'd listen to her talk shop any day. read more

I love this place. Starting coming two months ago and I've really enjoyed it. Hatha, flow, and ropes are the three classes I've tried and I have thoroughly enjoyed them all. All of the instructors I've had have been great too. read more

Amazing!!!! I have nothing but great things to say not only about the instructors but the people who attend the class as well. Very welcoming and helpful. read more

I've never been someone that thought I'd be a yoga guy. Years lifting weights, hiking, and playing sports yoga wasn't even on my mind. A few years at a desk job and age made it so I couldn't do activities as easy as I used to. My doctor suggested yoga and CV Yoga has a guys beginner class on Wednesday night. 2 years later I look forward to my weekly session with Joe and the guys. It has helped with various aches and pains as well as being the perfect stretch after let day at the gym. I'm not that spiritual but I always feel better after my class. If you are interested in learning yoga or your a veteran there is a class here for you. read more

I moved to Castro Valley about 6 months ago and between searching for a house and moving, I had been out of my practice for almost a year. I was hesitant to return since I wasn't familiar with the local studios, but I decided to give it a shot. CV Yoga had a great intro price and good reviews, and I have to say, they didn't disappoint. The new studio is so welcoming and clean - it gives you a great place to relax and get into your practice. Every teacher has been very welcoming and helpful. Lisa has a great vinyasa class that is very energizing and leaves you feeling amazing. April's candlelight Yin is soothing and she is great at catering to all levels of practice. I had the pleasure of taking Liz's class when she subbed and I really enjoyed the hybrid of hatha and vinyasa; it was challenging, yet relaxing. I highly recommend this studio. read more

Very nice facility, good assortment of class times, good parking, great teachers, and nice people. I'm glad I found this place and will continue to take classes here. read more

Castro Valley Yoga is a great yoga studio. I've been going here for about 1 1/2 years now, and thought I should finally write a review. This studio has everything you need, numerous props from blankets to blocks to bolsters and straps and ropes. All to help you advance in your yoga practice. They have many different kinds of classes like alignment based (my favorite), Hatha flow, vinyasa, yin, prenatal, restorative (treat yourself) at many different times of day from 6:00 a.m to 7:30 p.m., your pick, your yoga. But the best thing the studio has is their teachers, they're all great, whether your a beginner or have an advanced yoga practice. So come to this studio, meet the owners Bridget and April. They have a new to the studio special for a month and find out what the yogis who come already know. Your body and mind will thanks you! read more

I decided that this was the year I needed to find my inner zen and give yoga a shot! I have heard great things about Castro Valley Yoga so decided to give it a shot! I absolutely loved it!!! The location is great, easy to find lots of parking. The studio is clean, modern and very inviting. They have a great class schedule and a variety of classes from beginners to advance. All the staff I have met has been wonderful and very welcoming. If you are looking for a great yoga studio, this is it!! You will not be disappointed. read more

Lisa is a liar. I have the email to prove it. She is also not to bright. Had she honored her email I would have been a paying customer. But a more reputable studio gets my money now. read more