Those of you that have had an excellent Yoga teacher in the past will be very impressed with Margaret. She is highly knowledgeable in the practice, and as importantly, in the human body. As others have noted, she pays great attention to your alignment, which is very important as doing yoga improperly can cause problems, especially in the knee and wrist. She is good at remembering individual limitations and injuries and reminds you to modify or pass if a particular move is not right for you. I am still on the initial Groupon trial, but am liking it very much. I have taken the Sat 1045 vinyasa class, which seems to be popular. Each Saturday there are a few more Groupon newbies, so sometimes Margaret modifies to accommodate, but you still get a great class. This is a good class and can be a reasonable "power yoga" workout if you are properly putting all your muscles into it. If you want more of a challenge for flexibility and advanced poses, and strength, then try the Ashtanga offering - there will be a lot fewer people too (or certainly fewer once you get invited to the intermediate Ashtanga class.) I have not tried the Vinyasa flow "experienced", I suspect that is a more rigorous class than the Sat Open Vinyasa. Hmm, sounds like a plan. The studio is small, but adequate, you don't need a big, fancy health club to do good yoga, I suspect the opposite is true. I like the plants in the front of the room, they add a pleasant touch. Some have complained about the door buzzer, I can understand that. So next time you buzz in, why don't you hang out at the door and let the next person in so there is one less buzz ;-) Pay it forward, when you are let it, hang at the door for the next person or until the studio opens for class. If everyone did that, there would only be one buzz a class. Easy street parking. May 2013 Update: went back and took the Vinyassa "Variation" class today and enjoyed it. Margaret has decided to mix Vinyassa up a bit. This month she is concentrating on arm balances. Aug 2014 Update: after about 6 flow classes I was invited to Primary Ashtanga, which I instantly loved. It is the same routine every week, which is prep for the next Ashtanga, which is prep for the next... So it is not for everyone, but if you also want a "power" yoga workout, you can really push yourself on this and make it very hard. You will need an invite, please don't just show up if you have never practiced it before! Note to Ashley: Margaret has addressed your concerns and the class start and stop time are much more exact . You are correct, it not appropriate for a dog to wander around, so dogs are no longer permitted. read more

River's Edge Yoga - Margaret - Yoga Near Me - Alexandria, Virginia

I joined Margaret for the prenatal yoga class. I have done a couple sessions with her so far. I had pretty severe leg and groin pain and Margaret personalized my session to work on the specific issue. Not only she has a deep knowledge of movements and physiology and the experience to go with it but she also goes the extra mile for her clients. She genuinely seems to love what she does and is very good at it. I benefitted a lot after the session and the pain was significantly reduced after just one class and I felt great over all. The studio is simple and low key, that works for me as long as the classes are good. I wish the session would not end at 6 weeks and would go on longer. read more

I bought a deal for this studio and at first I wasn't a fan, but it started to grow on me. I think it's a great studio for some people, but not really what I was looking for long term. I did go to the 20 classes I paid for though so feel I have a fair sense of the place. This is an excellent studio for beginners and/or if you want a slower yoga class. It's not a heated super strenuous practice though. This is not where you come if you are looking for a workout. Personally I'm not a fan of doing the same thing over and over (ashtanga) and I didn't realize that ALL classes at the studio are like this. If that's your thing though this place would be perfect. The teacher is VERY cautious about alignment and students going into more advanced poses. Generally this is a good thing, but she's a bit over the top about it. She teaches to the most basic students so it can be a bit boring if you're more advanced and she doesn't offer options for different levels which I find annoying. I honestly think it would take you decades not years to advance if you came here. The studio is very small and laid back. I generally think this is fine, but on Saturdays some classes would run over as much as 30 mins which is kind of ridiculous. If you have somewhere to be make sure you watch the time. As it's a small studio there is only one teacher which is a bit limiting as you only have her perspective. Margaret (the teacher) is very nice although I do agree with others who said her voice is really annoying. I finally just learned to tune it out. Overall this is a good place for a beginner or if you want ashtanga. read more

We had a groupon for this establishment. The owner is super nice and very accommodating. Sadly, we were too busy at the time to be there everyday. The experience that we had was awesome and makes me want to continue yoga now that I have more time on my hands. You won't regret giving this company a try. The instructor/ owner is wonderful! read more

I saw a Living Social deal for this yoga studio and after reading the other Yelp! reviews I decided to purchase it. Unfortunately after two classes I'm not impressed. There are some good things - Margaret, the owner and instructor, does frequent adjustments and remembers students injuries and helps them modify poses - these are really great things that I appreciate. What I don't like however, is the way Margaret speaks during class - she drags out her words ("oooonnneee, twooooo, threeee...") in what must be her attempt to have a mantra or keep students focused but I find it extremely distracting and annoying. Additionally she has yet to ask if anyone wants any specific poses. Every other yoga studio I've practiced at does this, with the instructors specifically asking if anyone has any poses they want or any areas of the body they want to focus on. Other studio's instructors also remind students it is their (the student's) practice, not the instructors and I feel like Margaret doesn't do that. The studio is small (which is fine) but students have to buzz at the front door to be let into the building. It's frustrating and distracting to have students buzzing in during the last 10 minutes of class (when you're in shivasana, the final resting pose). Also frustrating is she tends to run over, anywhere from 5 to 15 minutes. I expect class to start and end on time! Overall I think this studio is okay. Not the best I've ever been to but it's better than the average yoga class you'll get a gym. read more

Every now and then when I can't make it my usual class at River's Edge, I check out other studios and I'm always disappointed. Margaret is an amazing teacher and her classes are challenging. I understand vinyasa or ashtanga, and maybe even River's Edge, may not be everyone's cup of tea, but I think this is the best studio in the area. Margaret is very conscious of alignment and safety and making sure students don't get hurt; sometimes when there are new students, this means the class is less vigorous. On those days while my workout might not be as challenging, I use the time to really focus on my alignment and work on getting deeper into my poses. Yoga is so subtle and just when I think I have a pose down, I realize another nuance. There are certain classes that are incredibly challenging and vigorous as well. Margaret gets to know her students and the quirks in our individual bodies; she focuses on the individual in her alignments. Margaret is a teacher for serious yogis and if you're interested in a gym type yoga experience this probably isn't a great fit for you. Having said that, I am as fit as I've ever been as an adult and probably have developed more muscle tone and mass from yoga, than any other athletic activityI've participated in and I was a serious athlete at one time. This is a laid back, groovy studio where dogs sometimes show up and do some down dogs too. There is definitely a little bit of a hippy vibe here and I feel like we have our own little sense of community. read more

The yoga instructor, Margaret, is absolutely fabulous. I haven't had such a good yoga class since living in California and I really appreciate the instructor's help with maintaining the poses correctly. She actually goes around and will readjust you and help you do what's actually good for your body. I did the 6am yoga class, which was an awesome way to start my day. It is a bit intense at times, but in a good way! It's a little difficult to find if you don't already know where it is because there really aren't any signs....the landlord won't allow any!! I think it's a relaxing, small space to really focus on your yoga moves. read more

A review after the first class. Margaret is a true yoga practitioner and an amazing teacher. She asked me what kind of yoga I was looking for before class, to make sure the class was right for me. I was actually looking for a more therapeutic, meditative experience to alleviate stress, and her 12:15 class on Tues and Thursdays seemed to be a perfect fit. I felt very welcome, and the studio space was quiet and calming. I loved the class, loved that it was quiet without music (which helps me with the body-mind-spirit connection). There were also yoga mats there for me to use, and a water fountain just outside of the room (very convenient, since I forgot both my mat and water lol). I look forward to more classes at River's Edge! read more

Margaret is kind, gracious and truly cares about improving her students' lives through yoga. My wife and I have found an awesome way to align, recenter and decompress from the week. I recommend the yoga basics class to beginners as my wife and I go 1-2 times per week and love it. We float away from the class every time happier than when we came. You can't beat the price either. read more

I am brand new to yoga and to be honest, hesitated before I went in to use my Living Social deal with River's Edge Yoga. Margaret couldn't have been more welcoming, unassuming, and friendly (so what if she might be a few minutes late...a few students are, too). Her instruction is clear, calm, and focused on learning and prevention of injuries. I didn't think I would actually like yoga, but I'm truly blessed to have Margaret as part of my week! Yes, the door buzzer can be a bit distracting, and some may not like her voice (I find it helpful with my breathing); if you're looking for inner peace and strength, those are really minor issues anyway. I always come away from class feeling much more positive. Margaret is a beautiful person inside and out, and isn't just a member of the Green Yoga Association for the label (I overheard her say she makes her own chai!). So, if you're taking yoga for appearances and a pretty studio, go elsewhere (it's a smaller room in an older building, but plenty of parking and convenient). If you truly want to learn yoga at your own pace in a gentle, encouraing atmosphere from an instructor with 10+ years experience, you won't go wrong with Margaret and River's Edge Yoga! I hope to study with her as long as I'm in DC! read more

REY - River's Edge Yoga is a yoga studio that is more than just a "business". It's a member of the Green Yoga Association and a studio that works diligently to be involved in the community by doing many acts of service. Just as impressive is the variety of classes from bellydance to ashtanga to yoga for mothers and babies, to yoga for athletes and seniors. There are few businesses these days that can demonstrate that level of commitment to their customers. Hard core devoted ashtangis will be pleased to find REY. As another reviewer noted it's the only studio in the area to offer the full primary series. Those folks are amazing to watch. Yoga chickens, eternal beginners like myself, will find a comforting and supportive environment at the studio and a caring teacher in Margaret, who is also the owner. She is truly committed to giving all her students the opportunity for their own best practice. So what if I can only do a few sun-salutations before collapsing? Yoga is about the inner work we do on ourselves as well. The results are radiated outwards to all sentient beings around us and yoga connects us to our essential selves. Margaret's background in dance and movement is evident by her thorough explanations of how to get into the poses and what to notice as we move through them. She is gentle and attentive, giving you the space to work with your own abilities and limits. I've tried lots of yoga classes in many different forms (kundalini, bikram, hatha) but I will always come back to yoga at the River's Edge studio when I am working in the DC area. The little English tea place downstairs is a great place to grab a snack too. read more

I've been attending classes at River's Edge for about three months now, and I have so far been very pleased. I purchased a Groupon for a steal, but plan to purchase another multi-class pass at full price once my Groupon pass runs out. I have so far only attended the drop-in classes, but feel that Margaret is a great teacher. She spends a lot of time individualizing her instruction and offering adjustments. Margaret has always been nothing short of warm and encouraging. The drop-in classes might be a little basic if you have done yoga for years, but for someone who had lapsed in her practice for six months, the drop-in classes have been a great way to get back into yoga. I have yet to try any of the advanced classes so I cannot speak to them. The schedule offers a wide variety of class times, which is important to me as my work schedule varies. The studio is warm and cozy. It can be a bit hard to find, but there are usually a few folks hanging around the front door to the building before a class to let folks inside. All in all, I feel as if I have found my yoga home in Alexandria, and I would recommend that others give River's Edge a try as well. read more

What does a dog, an eviction notice, and being tardy for the party all have in common? Read on to find out! I purchased the 20 classes for $50 offered through Groupon, since I was moving to the area, and am still on the hunt for my yoga home. Upon moving here, I decided to go to a vinyasa yoga class. Most of Margaret's offerings as Ashtanga yoga, which is fine, just not my thing. Well, all the classes are ashtanga classes. period. So, know that. I arrived about 10 min early, and waited with the others. There was a dog with one of the ladies. Not a service dog or anything. Someone asked her was her dog coming to class, and she said, "yeah as long as no one minds." The lady immediately told her she was afraid of dogs Another person comes up, asks if the dog is friendly, and can she pet it. Yes, and yes the dog owner says. Well, the lady put her hand out for the dog to sniff, and the dog immediately growled at her. She, said, "I thought your dog was friendly!" Dog owner says, "yeah otherwise I wouldn't have brought him." Hmmm ok. Fifteen minutes after class was supposed to start, the teacher shows up looking like she was coming straight from working in her garden or something. "Oh, I have a yoga class to teach?" What happened to don't be tardy for the party!?! Especially, when people are paying to come to the party?? Upon walking in, she goes into this long tirade about how the landlord is trying to get her evicted for people waiting in the wrong space, and it was quite the turn-off. Not very zen like. It made all the more sense why she was doing a groupon all the sudden. The studio is very basic and bare bones. However, it was clean which is always a plus. Now, back to the dog. While we were in the midst of a boring class, the dog was wandering around the class, licking people in their faces while they were in downward dog. Okay, let's say that again... THE DOG WAS WANDERING AROUND THE STUDIO LICKING PEOPLE IN THE FACE WHILE THEY WERE IN DOWNWARD DOG, OR ANY OTHER POSE. THE DOG GROWLED WHEN PEOPLE TRIED TO SHOO IT AWAY. THE DOG WOULD CLEAN HIMSELF, THEN GO LICK SOME RANDOM STRANGER IN THE FACE! It really wasn't funny. Okay, it was. It brought some sort of interest to this already weird class. Remember the lady who is afraid of dogs? Said dog had a field day laying all on her mat. I have two dogs. I would NEVER take them to a yoga class. Then the dog was laying on the blankets that practioners use during class. What if someone is allergic to dogs? I know I'm deathly allergic to cats, and my throat starts to close up. Also, there were plants all in the studio. A lot of people are allergic. I knew I would never come back. I called groupon, and promptly received a refund. They were just as appalled as I was about the whole situation. read more

I got a voucher for 20 classes and went to two. It was too crowded, I couldn't deal with the weird locked door situation (maybe I needed to find more inner calm in yoga classes), and the instructor's voice/speech pattern drove me insane. She was very nice and seemed to be knowledgeable and helpful, but I dreaded going to the second class and never went back. I think it's ok if you can get past that. Also, I don't do well with warm confined spaces, like warm yoga classes, and that studio in the summer means a guaranteed migraine for me. read more

I need to respond to Courtney B.'s review before I offer my two cents on how great this studio is. Courtney feels that yoga instructors should ask the students if there are any poses that they want to work on and she does not like that Margaret does the same/ similar practices in her flow classes. Courtney, Margaret's practices are heavily influenced by the Ashtanga yoga tradition, developed by Jois. Jois taught that in order for the yoga practitioner to develop optimal alignment in poses, you must do them repeatedly-- there are MANY anatomical and physiological occurrences happening in just one pose and in order to get the most out of them, you must take yourself through them many times. Margaret is one of the most informed yoga teachers I have ever met when it comes to anatomy, physiology and yoga. She cares deeply for her students and continually helps students discover the intricacies of poses in their practice. This is absolutely the place to go for people interested in trying yoga and the experienced practitioner who wants to deepen his/her practice. Margaret makes everyone feel welcome and tends to everyone in the class. I have been to many studios in the Washington DC/ NOVA area and Margaret/ Rivers Edge Yoga is a rare gem. She is a great teacher and a great mentor. She will make sure your practice is safe to reduce the chance of injury-- listen to her instruction! I have been to several studios where the teachers lead students into poses that students are not ready for and have seen people get hurt. Margaret feels out the group and will back off if needed. She is fantastic! read more

I was surprised to see all the rave reviews of this place as my experience there was not super positive. I will say that Margaret appears to be very knowledgeable about the body and to truly care that students have correct alignment, etc. but I was put off by her authoritarian attitude and the annoying way she speaks (another reviewer below said the same thing). At the beginning of the class, she basically lectured us about proper alignment (but not in a way that I was receptive to), told us that she was "God" in the studio and that anyone who didn't follow her alignment instructions would be banned. I can't imagine that I was alone in feeling really put off. For me, the entire experience was pretty unpleasant. Perhaps I am just accustomed to a different style of yoga and yoga teaching but I wouldn't go to a second class with this lady. Note: If you're running late, don't worry. The class won't start on time. read more

Got a groupon at a great price. So I was a little worried about the quality of the studio. BUT I was pleasantly surprised. It's a basic bare bones location that focuses on the true practice of yoga. Margaret is very attentive and comes across as very experienced. I started practicing yoga in Southern California, and had an abundance of great teachers/ocations out there. Here I've struggled to find a genuine yoga practice. I've even travelled to India to stay at an Ashram. So I'm incredibly familiar with yoga and all that goes with practicing. Very grateful this groupon came up. I found a new yoga home, and I'm so happy about that! read more

This is the only Ashtanga Yoga place I have found in the area that does the primary series in its entirety. Margaret is a caring and attentive instructor. I take her Ashtanga 1 class and it is intense! Love love love this Yoga Studio!! read more

I have been going regularly to REY since 2007 and am delighted to have found my yoga home. I decided it was about time I yelped about it! I have practiced many different types of yoga since about 2001 (vinyasa, "power" yoga, sivananda, anusara, Iyengar, basic hatha, etc.) and had tried Ashtanga a couple times, but hadn't dedicated myself to it. I am so glad I did. No, I don't practice 6x per week like a truly dedicated yogini, but I have a steady solid improving practice - and that is thanks in large part to Margaret. As other reviewers stated - Margaret really is one of the most knowledgable yoga teachers in the area - in terms of yoga as well as anatomy. The studio is small and she gets to know all of her students - their weaknesses and their strengths - and offers modifications as appropriate. Even though I had practiced yoga for several years prior, I had never had a teacher take the time to teach me the correct way to do many poses and gear me up for more advanced poses and inversions. She teaches full primary series and led second series to more advanced students and offers beginner classes, regular "flow" classes and mommy and me. As another reviewer noted, she doesn't ask people what poses they want to do; however, in a yoga for athletes class, for example, she will usually focus on the tight hips and shoulders of runners and cyclists. Part of the beauty of Ashtanga is the meditative repetition of the sequence of postures. I will note that this studio may not be for everyone - it is small and no frills - no spa, boutique or stuff like that. Margaret teaches most of the classes (Trish teaches a great class too - yoga for athletes). There is no waiting area and classes don't always run on time, but it is a warm, welcoming studio, where newbies quickly become part of the REY family. read more

I haven't been to River's Edge Yoga studio in a little over two years but it's only because I moved to the other side of Alexandria, got a new job and have a very busy schedule so I now practice yoga through the gym at my job and the gym across the street from my house. I found this place through Livingsocial like many others on here, I bought a 20 class pass and for me it was so worth it. Margaret knows her yoga, she has been practicing it for most of her life and it definitely shows. She is also a no-nonsense kind of lady so if you are easily offended, you should probably grow thicker skin or go find yourself a yoga studio where the teachers talk in that high-pitched-misty-gives-too-many-compliments kind of voice. If you have incorrect form, please believe she will not hesitate to let you know but it really is for your own good. I've been in classes at other yoga studios where someone is blatantly doing a pose incorrectly, putting them self at risk for injury and the instructor just looked around the room saying "gooood, gooood," when it obviously wasn't good. Within just a few classes, I saw a huge improvement in my own form because she had called me out whenever I needed to be called out. I also enjoyed her style of yoga, Ashtanga, which is challenging and if you're giving it your all, you will work up a good sweat. The only drawbacks about this studio are 1) the size of the room; since the classes can get pretty full space can be limited so show up a little early and claim your spot, and 2) the classes do tend to run over so give yourself a little extra time if you need to be anywhere afterwards. read more

Margaret is an amazing yoga instructor! She is very kind and truly cares for each student's health and focuses on alignment and proper pose. She has classes that cover multiple skill levels, enabling each student to work at the level that is best for them. I have been to several studios and have found Margaret to be the best! read more

I've been coming to Margaret's yoga classes for a year now. It was my first time with yoga and she always gives wonderful guidance for starting out and progressing into the practice. She's keenly aware of people's strengths and limits and even with a small class of students, can tailor your workout to just what's best for you. She really knows her stuff...so you're in great hands with Margret leading your ashtanga. read more

This is a great studio with lots of free parking. Margaret is an awesome hands-on instructor who gives lots of attention and adjustments along with explanation on how to self-adjust. We always have good chats and she's helped me progress to some second series asanas. Despite all her students and other commitments she remembers what's going on in my life and my injuries. She one of the warmest and kindest people I've met who also just happens to be a fabulous yoga instructor. read more

River's Edge Yoga has one of the most experienced yoga teachers in this area, Margaret Townsend. The primary style of yoga offered is Ashtanga. For those new to yoga, Ashtanga is a very athletic style of yoga and what has become Power Yoga in the US. Ashtanga is not for everyone: it is a specific set of postures, each held for only 5 breaths (hence the counting that seems to annoy some of the commenters), and each transitoned with a vinyasa. Ashtanga is a moving meditation. Once one gets used to the system, it gets easier to focus on the breath and meditation. Margaret has trained with the top Ashtanga yogis in the US and her teaching style reflects theirs. I travel a lot and have practiced in numerous studios nationwide and can attest that Margaret's teaching is among the best nationwide. The studio space is small, very advantageous for a personalized experience. River's Edge is one of the few studios in the area to offer guided Primary and Intermediate Ashtanga series. Beginners should go to an introductory class, for Ashtanga can be intense. If you prefer to hold a pose for long periods of time, if you want to pick your own pose, if you want a customized class, go to a vinyasa flow or other class or get a private lesson because Ashtanga does not work like that. If you are athletic and strong minded, Ashtanga may be just the right style for you. It is not for the lazy, to loosely quote the originator of Ashtanga, Pattabhi Jois. If you want a challenging class taught by an expert, go to Margaret at River's Edge Yoga. read more

When I tell you have never met a rude yoga in my life!! I was told to come in at 6:30..I was there at 6:30. I was buzzed in because the doors were locked. As this was my first time going to this place, I mistakingly opened the door to the studio and it was slammed immediately in my face! Wow I have visited so many awesome yoga studios in Alexandria for Vinyasa, but I wanted an Ashtanga experience. Not ever will I return to this place!! read more

I've been practicing with Margaret at River's Edge for over a year. Found the studio after I retired and what a gem! Margaret is a highly skilled teacher. She teaches with patience, takes the time demonstrate, and helps students learn and understand the poses. Ashtanga has definitely increased my strength and balance. It's a great practice for any age and is taught with great skill at River's Edge Yoga. read more

Margaret is EVERYTHING you ever wanted in a yoga instructor. She is incredibly knowledgeable and cares about the health of each student! Ask her questions, she knows how yoga can help us excel at other sports. I'm a runner and Margaret's instruction helped tremendously when I trained for my first half marathon! She helped me get to new levels of flexibility; she's quick to suggest modification for everyone's unique abilities and will not injury you. I have been to Vinyasa Flow 17 times (it's slightly addictive) and Yoga for Athletes twice. It's a clean studio, I have no complaints. I have many thanks for Margaret for getting me out of a workaholic workout rut. Just go! read more

River's Edge is just the most wonderful yoga studio. I have practiced yoga for a long time and have never felt as fit, both in body and mind as I have since I have been practicing with Margaret. At first, I thought that Ashtanga yoga may be too repetitive for me, but I have found that it has really helped build my muscles, core, and provides me with the added benefit of mindfulness while I am practicing. I find I am now stronger than I have ever been. I have accomplished hikes at distances and altitudes I never could have imagined before I began at this studio. I practice during lunch time and the classes are not crowded. Truly a gem in the yoga world. read more

As a neophyte yogi I dig River's Edge Yoga and the owner/instructor Margaret. If you are new to yoga this is definitely the right place to go. Groupon and Living Social have deals sometimes and 20 sessions for $50 or less is a GOOD deal. I started going because of one such deal and will continue after my last session expires. For those new to yoga, Ashtanga is a form that can be energetic (not hot) enough that you sweat but you're not covered from head to toe like you might be in Hot yoga. Also, ashtanga follows the same set of movements each session. That is not to say that you don't learn new poses over time but you should expect to do the same poses in a series each time. If you want lots of variety this isn't the style for you. However, by truly learning the asanas (poses) and becoming comfortable in them you can achieve a meditative state while practicing. Margaret is very patient, focuses on form, is cautious about misalignment (as we all should be), and wants to work with you. Her classes are for people looking to learn or practice their yoga. It isn't for voyeurs or show-offs. River's Edge: great for new students and those wishing to take their time learning. Yoga happens one asana at a time so what's the rush, right? read more

I didn't think I would enjoy doing a series of poses, but it's been great to see my improvement over time and to learn how to safely do each pose. Margaret won me over as a repeat customer after a Living Social deal because of how much she cares about the safety of her students. Her #1 priority is that students do not hurt themselves and is very cautious about that. She has been practicing yoga for a long time and knows what she is talking about. Once she gets to know you and any issues in your body, she goes out of her way to provide additional exercises that you can do on your own time. She has stayed after class multiple times to help me with ankle issues, hip flexor strength, and additional stretching exercises. She's very kind and cautious. She's also understanding about DC traffic, so classes may not start quite on time in order to give you a few extra minutes to get there, especially if she knows traffic is extra bad that day. I recommend trying at least 5 classes to get to know Margaret and to see how much you can improve your practice at this studio. read more

Rivers Edge Yoga is such a wonderful hidden gem! Margaret Townsend, the owner and teacher, is fantastic. She is so knowledgeable. She knows ashtanga yoga inside and out. She offers classes for those seeking the traditional ashtanga method as well as those seeking yoga as a place to stretch after running, cycling, and other life activities. She is kind, welcoming, encouraging, motivating and wise. I cherish my time practicing her in space and feel so blessed to have her as a teacher. read more

Very basic yoga class and not very challenging. See past reviewer's comments about the instructor's voice and tendency to draw out words. I really wanted to like it (since I paid $50 for a groupon deal) but couldn't. Again, good for a beginner yoga since she looks at your form, but way too boring for a seasoned or intermediate yogi. read more

It's been over a year since I've been here but I think I still should submit a review. I love River's Edge Yoga. I am by no means a Yogi so I have always been intimidated by yoga classes but Margaret is an amazing teacher and puts you at ease. She takes her time explaining techniques and is very hands on. I also like that she educates you about the practice as she teaches. I like to understand the "why" so I appreciated it very much. I will be moving closer to the area next month and I intend on coming back! read more

Today was my first class at River's Edge (Yoga Basics) and I feel I was introduced to the real benefits of yoga for the first time. I have taken yoga classes in the past and found that most instructors just have you follow along. Margaret is a wonderful instructor who appears to have devoted herself to practicing and sharing what she has learned with others. No negative comments here. Looking foward to the next class. read more

I have been taking yoga for about 8 years and have done all the studios all over Old Town. None of them tops River's Edge. Margaret is as good as it gets when it comes to yoga instructors. She is knowledgeable about yoga and anatomy, She remembers all her students' names. She truly loves what she does and it shows. She does not need a fancy studio to keep her following; she (and Trish, who teaches on Monday evenings) relies on sound yoga instruction and a welcoming presence. Whether a beginner or a seasoned yogi, you can't find a better yoga home than River's Edge. read more

If you're looking for a yoga studio where the instructor knows you and your yoga ability, this is the place for you. Margaret learns about each of her students and paces classes around them. She will challenge you just enough to keep you coming back for more! Margaret genuinely takes her role as a teacher seriously! In addition to being a great Yoga instructor, she is a kind and gentle lady. read more

Margret is a strong attentive teacher, very welcoming and generous with her knowledge, she also seems like a great person. The studio is one room above some offices, rustic and lived in with lots of plants, it's on the warmer side, which I like and I think it's very charming and calming. I brought a groupon over a year ago and only went to one class but she still accepted this towards a new class pack. I've only taken the lunchtime classes but they are adaptable enough for beginners or advanced yogies! read more

I am a 40 yr yoga veteran with an active practice and a certified teacher myself. Margaret Townsend is one of the all-time best teachers I've ever encountered. She is very well-grounded in anatomy & proper alignment so as to enable the development of strength necessary for the avoidance of injury. She is sweet, genuine, and very charitable. Beth R. & Courtney B., you are showing your ignorance. Obviously you don't appreciate humor in a teacher. And yes, as some have said, it's based in Ashtanga but more than that it's based in the Krishnamacharya tradition, which also includes Iyengar & Desikachar / Yin yoga styles. Margaret is versed in ballet, modern dance, developmental movement science and Integral Yoga (which encompasses numerous styles). So if you want something more than just to flash your hot expensive yoga clothes & young skinny bod for others to see, practice at River's Edge. Note: you may find at other studios as well, when the class is crowded and has a wide range of abilities, more discipline is asked for in following the teacher's guidance. That is not unique to Margaret. But, if you stick with Margaret, she will help you develop a personalized practice which fully honors your own body's needs. read more