I wanted to wait until I'd been coming here for two months before writing a review (because it personally drives me nuts when a person tries a place like a yoga studio ONCE and then reviews the place based on one visit). I've been very happy here. It's walking distance to my once which is great, has a very reasonable monthly unlimited class rate (which is awesome) and I haven't had a bad class yet (nor I do expect to). I was away from yoga for about ten years and I'm so enjoying coming back to it. It has a very neighborhood feel, and everyone (teachers and students) is low-key and unpretentious. I've tried out probably ten different classes and as many teachers, and got something out of every class (even if some were a better fit than others). I also go to the zumba classes with Latitia (which I love because there's a LOT of dance in them which is great) and Ballet Bodies with Eric which has been an awesome way to get back into ballet while also being an awesome workout. I love the diversity of the classes (15 year olds and 65 year olds!) and I love how not every person in there is 100lbs and under the age of 30. Lots of different levels and you can go easy or push yourself further if you feel comfortable. read more

Joy and Adnan offer a fantastic yoga practice that is steeped in reality, history and personality. Having recently completed their 200hr YTT, I have very passionate about their merits. As teachers, the Purusha team is level-headed and open-minded. My yoga theory and knowledge was expanded in a way that offers me the ability to teach and muse conceptually and spiritually. They are easy to work with and able to see other perspectives, issues, concerns and needs. I have been able to transform my practice into one that I look forward to daily and one that I hope to share with others. Their fashion of teaching is non-competitive, non-ego and steeped in classic 8-limb philosophy. This is a perfect yoga school if you are looking for a comfortable environment that cherishes and thrives of people of different temperaments and convictions. Overall, they make yoga accessible, fun and engaging. What more can you want!?! Cheers read more

This yoga studio is a San Francisco gem. I have come to love my routine going there. I feel like getting in a good routine, or habit, with exercising is half the battle. Joy Ravelli (the studio owner and founder of the Parusha Yoga School) is offering up amazing things at the studio to the community as well as programs outside the studio through her 501C-3 non-profit Parusha Seva Project. If you're lucky too, in one of her classes, you'll get to hear her beautiful voice singing chants of yogic mantras. The classes are not what you will find in The Marina or Cow Hollow, or Downtown, so come with an open mind and an open heart. I have to admit that part is hard, to get out of your own way that is, but trust it and trust what she has created here and all that she has put into it. You will come out on top if you do. You can get lost in 'your opinion' of the what you think a good class should offer. Let that go. However, if it's not for you then move on for now. I think the point of this studio is that they truly want you to find your yoga. The most inspiring thing about Joy and where she is coming from is her message to let go of fear and head trips and let it all be love. "In the end there is only love." - Joy Ravelli read more

Purusha is a place that I call home. A place that I know whenever I go there I will be greeted with arms open and full of love. Joy and Adnan have a graceful, down to earth, and compassionate way of helping everyone blossom into the nature of their own true selves. Purusha is like no other place, if you have been looking for a community that is diverse, open, creative, and energetic, than look no further! Thank you from the depths of my heart Purusha for being in my life, I am eternally grateful. read more

I've been going to this studio for 2 years and I love everything about it. Every teacher I've had has been amazing, the studio is beautiful, and there's an overall positive energy every time I'm there. read more

Lately, been stressed at work and also riding my bike has made me sore in various spots. I figured I needed a mind-body tuning. A friend recommended Purusha in the neighborhood and I gave it as try over one weekend. I had tried Bikram once, but could not take the heat and had walk out in the first 10 minutes feeling sick. But this was the opposite experience -- very friendly folks, super calming atmosphere, got myself into a zen-like meditation mode, could feel every pain and soreness in my body, but in a good way, like when you can feel it healing. I didn't expect to completely love it. I think I might start frequenting it! read more

Adnan is a wonderfully playful instructor and a warm spirit. I dread the days I am out of town on Saturdays (which is far too often) for I know I am missing out on some beautiful yoga in the park. I typically come for the spiritual side of yoga and take frequent breaks, he remains patient with me. I am so grateful to have this be a part of my life! read more

This is my neighborhood yoga studio and it's largely responsible for getting me into the practice. Prior to this I could never stay committed, but the sense of community and the instructors here are truly exceptional! read more

Love Purusha Yoga! It's a comfortable, friendly neighborhood studio that nurtures it's practitioners at all levels, even offering free classes in the park by donation and all kinds of workshops throughout the year. There's one big room with smaller practice rooms upstairs and in the back. The teachers are knowledgeable and helpful and there's no "Attitude." I take Barbora's Hatha classes on the weekends, but they offer a variety of classes every day of the week. She's great! I wish I could come more often. I don't like "hot yoga" which is what most studios offer so I'm glad I found this place. The prices are very reasonable and you can always find street parking. I bring my own mat, but they have mats and every other prop you might need there. Also, on Saturday mornings there's a kids' class so parents can drop off their kids while they take a class. Some may find this distracting, but I find it pleasant to hear the kids "playing yoga" and "oming" upstairs. In the year that I have been practicing there, Joy has made a lot of improvements to the space and it's a nice place to be. I look forward to going to class and always feel better after. Enjoy if you decide to give it a try. read more

What a great and happy community space for yogis and yoga minded individuals. Joy, the owner is always around and teaches some of the classes. The schedule is rich with a variety of classes, offering classes as late as 8pm, for those of us who want to catch a yoga class at the end of a long work day. But most importantly, this is a great community space, where everyone feels welcomed. Highly recommended to check them out if you specially live in this neighborhood. read more

Purusha Yoga is unique in San Francisco. I've often found the yoga scene there to be somewhat commercialized, highly stylized, trendy, "fitness-focused," even elitist. Purusha Yoga is keeping it REAL in every way. Joy and Adnan are gifted, down to earth instructors who gracefully bring the 8 limbs of yoga to every class they teach. Their love of yoga is apparent and contagious and they will get you laughing and playing in their classes. In a typical class, I can feel that my edges are really pushed and I am invited out of my comfort zone--whether in partner poses, chanting, or physical practice. It's also lovely to practice outside in the park when the weather is nice. Those have been some of my most memorable classes ever! I am so inspired every time! Thank you Joy and Adnan!! read more

I feel so lucky to have such a great yoga studio on the west side of town. The teachers are knowledgeable and audible and usually give clear instructions. Everyone is so friendly. The studio is clean and inviting and the after-practice tea is refreshing. The rates are reasonable and I can always find free parking within a couple minutes' walk to the studio. I also like that some classes that are 60 and others 75 minutes long. I usually feel like the length is adequate for the level and challenge. There is always a spiritual component of the practice - it's shorter for Pilates and a little longer for restorative, which makes sense. One thing that is important to me is that this studio is so easy to work with. I have had so much drama with other studios but not this one. The schedule is as stable and predictable as anyone has a right to expect. They were friendly when I was paying deeply discounted prices and remained friendly after I became a loyal customer. Buying more classes is easy. I never felt pressured to buy more than I needed. Probably the only thing that makes this 4.9 stars is that some of the instructors are fairly inexperienced. The newer instructors are competent but sometimes they don't articulate the next pose as well as an experienced teacher, they don't flow as evenly, and/or don't have as much variety in their routines. But it is rewarding to see these same instructors blossom in just a few month.s. I hope this studio remains in the outer Richmond for a long, long time. read more

I had the pleasure of taking Purusha's Level 200 and level 300 hour teacher training and I'll forever be grateful for the experiences I had during these trainings. Purusha's curriculum is incredibly comprehensive and the experience of the teachers is unmatched. Here are some benefits, just to name a few... * Smaller class sizes for maximized learning experience * Great variety of teachers to learn about the many different teachings of yoga * Good balance of philosophy, anatomy, origins of yoga, physical practice, learning sequences, poses & adjustments, becoming a teacher and being part of the yoga business world * Self-expression and finding your own style of teaching that is unique to you is encouraged, supported and developed. * Opportunity for personal growth, this program will teach you a lot about yourself! * And......if you complete the trainings and want to teach YOU'LL GET TO TEACH! Purusha is incredibly supportive of its graduates and provides many opportunities for teaching or to get involved with their yoga community. read more

I did the Tuesday Hatha yoga class at 11am. Our instructor was Joy. It was not too crowded and our group of 7 made up half of the yogis. The studio is not too big but has two floors and beautiful serene high ceilings. I find myself staring at them during savasana. They provided all the materials such as mat, foot/head pillow, bricks and even blankets! I really like the pillow and never seen it offered at other studios. The blanket was a treat since I get cold easily. Purusha really caters to comfort. Joy was nice and welcoming. The class was relaxing and not too strenuous. I still find myself preferring a more rigorous form of workout. Overall, if you are looking for a relaxed, low impact, easy workout, then Purusha is for you. read more

I've been to Michael Michalske's class 2x now at Purusha Yoga. His class is my favorite so far. He combines mind and body exercises, really challenging class but fun and relaxing. He's very funny and helpful. It's too bad that he only teaches on Sundays, I rarely stay in the city during the weekends. I hope Michael will have more classes at Purusha. I love feeling sore after his class LOL mostly muscles that I don't use a lot, and surprisingly there. read more

Awesomesauce! Really and truly this is the best yoga studio in the city. I've been bouncing around for a year trying to find the right place and this is it. The instructors are warm, welcoming, and helpful. The music is always good, the mood is always light and fun, the ambiance is peaceful and completely non-pretentious. Bonus that the prices are beyond reasonable. Much love and light to this studio, after being here, there's no reason to go anywhere else. read more

Only tried yoga a handful of times and so far this has been my favorite experience! I took the Posture Clinic yesterday evening and was amazed at how much I learned in just an hour. Finally figure out a way to do lunges that doesn't hurt my bad knee and the people there were very kind. Also, it wasn't crowed when I went, nice open studio with all the props at no extra cost. Love it! I'm trying their Gentle Hatha class tonight and I'm really looking forward to it. Also, $59 bucks a month for unlimited yoga is a great deal! I plan on signing up for their monthly membership once my 3 class package ends, which was only $20 btw. read more

I saw on funcheapsf a free yoga class in the park. So I checked it out. It was small and there were two instructors. They were very welcoming. I think their names were Maple and Helen. I had such an amazing experience. It was a slow restorative class. They really helped me release my hip discomfort. I really enjoyed the visualizations of the sun traveling through my body. A truly peaceful and powerful session. I'm so looking forward to next week's session. I'm definitely going to make it a regular thing. read more

One of my favourite yoga studios. There is a nice variation of classes from yin to vinyasa. The styles of teachers vary but there are certain principles that are consistent here, particularly with the teachers who have graduated from Purusha. They teach yoga that focuses not just on doing the physical poses but also on breathing, alignment and awareness of our core.The space is clean, warm and friendly with lots of cool art work. They have a kitchen in the back where you can help yourself to water or tea. I like that as a new student I was made feel very welcome. Parking is metered but if you are willing to walk a block or two, you will no doubt find a spot. Prices are reasonable, especially if you compare it to other studios in the the city. read more

My wife and I attended your Kalani "Manifest Your Destiny" retreat in August 2014 and a month later are still blown away with the ongoing benefits. The soft yet intense humanity, ecstacy for life and pure fun you bring to your workshop is a gift that keeps on giving. I took the opening "I want" exercise you did in the workshop to open the discussion in my high school math classes of why they are learning math. I have students lining up to present their powerpoint "pechakusha's" to share their goals and dreams with the class. Best start of school ever, thanks to your retreat. And Kalani, what a pure Hawaii gift, topped off with a raucous Robert's market and hurricane with wine and chips...just life lived fully and at it's best...Aloha and Mahalo...Tim and Melinda read more

I love that I only live a few blocks away from this place. They have a ton of classes all the time, as well as a wide selection. I personally have only tried most of the yoga classes (mainly vinyasa 2/3 and hatha 2/3) and pilates. I took one pilates class with Lori and it was okay. I didn't feel like it was super challenging, but personally I like reformer pilates more. Of all the yoga classes, I would say Mary is the best teacher--I find her classes the most challenging and I'm always working up a sweat. The prices are very reasonable, especially for San Francisco. $49 for your first month of unlimited classes, and you get 10% off if you buy a new package before your current package expires. They also do a 10% student discount, but you can't combine discounts. The only slightly negative thing I'd say is that this place is VERY hippy-dippy, which isn't necessarily a bad thing.. it doesn't have the typical lululemon vibe that most yoga studios in SF tend to conjure. As much as I love yoga, I'm still a grump at heart so I don't really feel ~connected~ with the inspirational quotes and readings they tend to do before/after class, but that's just me. read more

I felt at home and welcomed the first day I attended a yoga class. Awesome community with good variety of classes and great instructors. Thank you so much Christina for inspiring me to practice yoga again. I appreciate your light, enthusiasm and grace. I am so glad and grateful you introduced me to Purusha. I am looking forward to attending more classes :) read more

I first met Joy and Adnan at the free yoga in the park class (Saturdays 11:30 in the Botanical Gardens in Golden Gate Park in the field near the gift store). They are both great teachers--very positive, supportive and fun. I've done things in their class that I didn't realize I was capable of because of their no pressure, relaxed approach to yoga. They are also very generous--not even taking donations at the class in the park. Lastly, they really reach out to make everyone feel welcome. read more

I've been attending classes here regularly for about a month, and I really love this studio! The space and the instructors are wonderful, and the studio feels very supportive and welcoming. Purusha is definitely my favorite studio thus far! read more

I've tried quite a few yoga studios in the city and none of them are as welcoming and friendly as Purusha. Their classes are great-- perfect for beginners and more advanced yogis. My fav is Fire Flow with Jeff Starr on Monday nights-- perfect way to start the week. And now they offer Zumba too-- I have never sweat so much. I love this place. read more

An incredible place of self improvement both spiritual and physical. Such an inclusive and welcoming community. If you want to join a yoga studio where you'll feel like more of a family than a customer, Purusha is the absolute way to go. read more

I'm falling in love. I came to Purusha somewhat randomly after I had made a decision to do a Yoga Teacher Training. Purusha is the local studio where I live. I popped online to read about the studio and was moved by Joy, the owner/founders personal story. Just based on that I jumped right in, and boy is the water warm!! It's, the best. The studio feels cozy and welcoming, but still provides a nice large room with high ceilings and skylights to practice in. The vibes are good and offer a sense of community. I'm extremely satisfied with the education in yoga I'm receiving & have already decided ( & started) to pursue the 300 hour YTT, as they also offer modules/ weekend classes where you get into the deeper, less physical aspects of yoga. THIS is the stuff that I really love. Purusha has A LOT to offer, I personally feel that I've just scratched the surface & I've already learned so much. Do yourself a favor and come hang out with us. read more

Purusha Yoga is one of the best studios I've been to in the city. Yes, it is a little small, but the instructors are incredible warm. They also have fun classes with hoops, and kid classes. read more

Love this yoga studio!!! The classes are great and the staff is super friendly and helpful. There's a real sense of community that I enjoy. The only negative thing I have to say is how distracting it can be when people come in really late (and I don't mean 5 minutes late) for class. There doesn't seem to be rules enforced for that. read more

This studio is an oasis. With so many yoga studios in the city centered solely on fitness, it's nice to find a place that expands beyond the physical into the lessons of yoga - integrating the philosophy. It has such a great vibe, it's always felt really cozy and welcoming. The schedule has a wide variety of classes and they switch up schedule a few times a year which keeps things new. I have gone through their 500 RYT training program and had a really nice experience. The teacher's training was a huge learning experience for me and very invaluable. read more

My favorite studio! I immediately felt at home here. The teachers and the students are incredibly kind and welcoming and someone at any stage in their practice can feel comfortable. I've grown so much here through the wonderful instruction of the teachers. Kristen's Yin and Restorative classes always make my week! read more

I checked out Purusha Yoga because it was close to my house and had all 5 star reviews. I was not disappointed! All of the instructors are seriously so sweet and the studio has a great vibe. This place is very down to earth and I always feel rejuvenated after coming out of a class. Very reasonable prices too! read more

What can I say, except that Purusha Yoga Studio & YTT is supreme. For so many simple reasons. First of all, it feels like an ashram, low-key, yet professional, no snootiness or Lululemon for sale here! Just chillax. And get on your mat! Breathe! Ive taken YTT 200 and currently in YTT 300 for Yoga Therapy and feel honored to learn firsthand from Joy Ravelli how powerful and transformative yogic therapy (and practices) can be. I had a session with her and since then have been able to see the vast ways in which one can heal. Eric Sparks and Valerie Starr's classes are inspiring and always different & thought provoking. As far as YTT goes, the teacher:student ratio is excellent. well-rounded, and so obvious that it comes form the heart. In one year I have gone from student to teacher, and I'm just filled with gratitude for places like this in the city. Namaste. read more

Purusha Yoga Studio!! It is hard to put into words how much I love this place. They offer every kind of class to could suit anyone. The teachers really make a point to get to know the students individually and offer personalized suggestions. The teachers at this studio are amazing because they truly care about whether you are getting the most out of your practice. Anyway! I am writing to talk about Thai Yoga Massage! I just finished two hours of relaxation with Akanksha Joshi. She was so patient and really attended to me and listened to my issues and also made sure to check that I was comfortable throughout. The massage went by so quickly since I was so relaxed. I definitely recommend her services! Now I feel like I'm floating :) read more

Purusha offers a wide variety of classes with for all level and interests. Coming to Purusha with limited experience, I am so grateful for the wide availability of Hatha classes. These classes have grounded me in the foundation of yoga. All the instructors are very knowledgeable and include wonderful information and philosophy throughout the class. read more

I love Purusha! Very good teachers, and a lovely atmosphere. Get there early - space fills up. This studio is great for all levels, and offer clean yoga mats, blocks, bolsters, blankets, etc for free! Highly recommended! No judgement yoga at it's finest. read more

Purusha Yoga is a fantasy land for yoga lovers...such a wide variety of classes from yoga, yoga therapy to hula! Each instructor has a very unique style of teaching that keeps things interesting while going deep. Joy, Purusha's owner has a buoyant, highly creative and playful personality blended with a depthfull knowledge of yoga, the body and the psyche. Joy tunes into her audience and the environment unlike any instructor I have experienced. She has an authenticity grounded in wisdom. Purusha seems to have a class for every mood, of which I have many:) I plan to bring my 9 year old to hula soon! Also they are so close to the ocean that I like to make a whole morning out of yoga and beach meditation... read more

I love Purusha. I've seen so many improvements in myself since I started taking classes in June. All of the teachers here are knowledgeable, patient, and friendly. The owner, Joy, is wonderful. They have an array of classes to choose from, and welcome all different skill levels. I like the Vinyasa classes the best because I enjoy the physical challenge! read more

4 stars for the Zumba instructors 0 stars for the studio's customer service The space: clean, but not very well-lit. Sound system not reliable; lately, the sound has been going out in the middle of class. Not the instructor's fault. Zumba: Laetitia's class is a great workout; I'm usually dripping with sweat after! Her routines have a dance-like feel to them, which I find appealing. Her music selection is energizing, and I finish each routine with a sense of accomplishment. I haven't been to Katia's class (Wednesdays) in a while, but it was also a really good workout. Customer service: Business owner (not the Zumba instructor) appears to make arbitrary decisions with regards to the Zumba schedule. Laetitia's classes have been cut from 4/week (around late December/2014) to 3/week (starting around early January 2015) to 1/week (started this week) on VERY short notice. This communicates to me that the owner of the studio considers the Zumba classes and, by association, Zumba customers, negligible. If Laetitia decides to start up her Zumba classes at another location, I will definitely follow her there, but I don't want to pay Purusha another penny of my money. read more

Every time I come back to Purusha I feel like I'm with family. I feel so supported and loved by this community. I know I would have no practice if it wasn't for the incredible people that make Purusha so special. Thank you for creating such a beautiful environment to further myself in. I am forever in your debt. read more