I want to LOVE this place. It's close and clean and pretty and the perfect balance of an oasis in the midst of the NYC bustle. Unfortunately, for now it's going to be my when nothing else works with my schedule studio. As other reviewers have noted, the classes aren't welcoming to beginners or those with injuries or health conditions. Instructors don't ask if anyone has injuries (I've noticed this is common in NYC except in specialized classes) or offer modifications. There's not even a blanket, "listen to your body, I'm only your guide" at the start of practice. In my experience, the teachers also tend to show the more advanced versions of poses right from the start. I took care of myself which I didn't mind since I went in knowing that's what would happen. But it makes me sad that an otherwise pretty accessible studio (elevator, low prices) isn't TRULY accessible. In Brahman's defense - this has been my experience at studio's throughout NYC and other cities (Baltimore in particular) and reflects the training more than the studios. If you have a long-term practice and don't have with any disability or active injuries, this could be an amazing oasis for you. If that's not you (*raises hand*), I recommend Urban Yoga Foundation on 152. read more

Wonderful studio with bright lights beaming inside. With only one floor and two bathrooms you'd be surprised but classes are not as packed. Classes are currently $5 a session, which is great if your on a budget. To add, they have donation based classes throughout the week. The yogis are equally wonderful: each having their own style (solely Vinyasa) with some sessions more fast paced than others. An open class is great for all levels, especially for a beginner like myself. You'll certainly be in better spirits once your done. I'm happy to have found you Brahman! Namaste! read more

This is a beautiful space. It invites relaxation. The class I attended was rigorous but not destroying. As long as I keep coming, I'll get back in the yoga groove. Wheel pose, here I come! And at $5 per class, you can't beat the price. read more

You get what you pay for. It was a $5 Yoga Class and it was $5 worth of yoga. I was handed a promo card when I was about to enter the train station on my way to work. I always like to support new business in the neighborhood so I decided to try a class. A friend had already taken a class and would not tell what she thought. (I contacted her immediately after the class and she agreed with me completely about HER experience there) 5 stars for the ambiance and that's about it. Disclaimer: I am an advanced certified Yoga Instructor that has been practicing daily for 25 years. I have taken seminars and classes and taught around the world. I do not teach Vinyasa and have only taken about 6-10 Vinyasa classes. The was generic "stadium" yoga without flow or personality. The Vinyasa classes I have attended in Manhattan and Brooklyn have been dynamic and left me feeling really great. I left this class feeling nothing. I am accustomed to being greeted when I enter a studio. I was not greeted or acknowledged when I walked in. There was no sign in sheet or waiver to sigh which equals no accountably and poor business practices. I am old fashioned and would like the instructor to be in the front of the room to demonstrate the sequence or posture so I don't have to look around the room and guess which other students may be doing it correctly. A teacher walking around with a wireless mic is weird but, necessary at this space because the traffic outside is so loud. I have NEVER taken a yoga class where the teacher wore a microphone. It was hard to deep relax and concentrate with the smell of garbage drifting around the room from the open windows. I had no problem with the shrieking children during deep relaxations. That was kind of cool. This would be a good class if you have never taken yoga before and have nothing to compare it to. Maybe not. I might send my roommate over since he has never taken any yoga before. There are much better options in Harlem! read more

I love this place. Love. I am a graduate student, so $5 classes are a amazing way to be able to practice given how unreasonably expensive yoga typically is. The bad reviews of this place seem to be exclusively from people who are used to very formal yoga. But for people who just want to gain the flexibility and strength that comes from yoga and don't necessarily want to become a straight up yogi, this place is amazing. The teachers are great. I've never met one who isn't welcoming and warm, and I think I've taken from five of their teachers at this point. They all have different styles, so you won't get bored. Even if you take from the same one consistently, they seem to vary up the poses and flows from class to class, so they keep it interesting. The studio is clean (which is a huge victory given what I've seen from other studios nearby), and the space is full of natural light and has plants all around. It's a great place to feel relaxed and open. I wish they had showers, but for $5 I'm not expecting a world-class studio. My only disclaimer would be that if you go, you should really already have a basic understanding of basic vinyasa flows and positions. It is *technically* open level, and those who are new will be well-cared for as the teachers always ask if anyone is new and pay special attention to them, but I'm not sure how much you'd get out of the first few classes. read more

I really wanted to like this place since it's inexpensive and close to where I work. However, my last experience was enough for me to look elsewhere. For starters, the instructor was not welcoming and friendly. The studio is beautiful, but she closed the windows (to block out street noise) and it became very hot in the room, which is fine if it's going to be bikram/hot yoga. The other thing i thought was odd was that the teacher used a headset/microphone when the class wasn't even that big. At one point, I felt like we were "bad" students, because she said that we were not listening to the instructions (ie. people were doing the wrong postures, because we didn't know how to do it correctly) instead of being supportive - which is how you should feel in a yoga class - supported. And finally, the music was distracting. I can understand playing soft, instrumental music that sets the mood, but songs with lyrics? In the middle of Savasana, with the lights dimmed and the room quiet, she played something by Tracy Chapman. So, even though this place is affordable and convenient, I'm looking elsewhere. read more

Now that I'm in my fourth month of attending classes here, I felt obligated to update the review and reinforce HOW AMAZING this place is. Few considerations though: - While Brahman does offer open-level classes, you really do need a working knowledge of basic vinyasa flows and positions. The instructors will always demonstrate a pose if you ask, but they won't show a typical chaturanga dandasana or Warrior movements, so understanding basics helps a lot. - I've noticed in the recent months how they're really varying the levels in each class. When I started taking class there in August, the flows were as challenging as expected, but certainly do-able at all levels, and for the slightly more advanced practitioners, instructors frequently ended with a headstand inversion, but that was about "it" for more advanced postures. In the classes I've attended in the past month, we've done everything from bhakasana to tripod headstand to handstand. Now granted I can't do a handstand (... yet), but it was nice to exercise some of the more complicated movements I have mastered, especially with an instructor to help with alignment, etc. - I've seen a lot of instructors, but will make an extra effort to attend Nick or Kajuan's classes. Nick is takes a very approachable stance towards the practice and is really encouraging of the room, while Kajuan will kick your butt left right and sideways, but he'll say these really inspiring things in between so you don't notice how much everything hurts until you're lying in savasana wondering if you can get up again. Additional shout-out to Andrea too, who I've seen taking classes and I've attended a few of hers, and she is wonderful - very soothing to listen to and a great balance of different basic flows to more challenging motions. True, the space is above a busy intersection and gets a ton of sunlight. Sometimes it's noisy, and sometimes it's really hot. And if you're looking for super advanced asana practice or for instructors to break everything down in baby steps, this isn't exactly the place for you. But I've gotten SO much out of my time at Brahman and going here has dramatically improved my at-home practice. So for $5 a class, can you really beat it? I think not. read more

I went back to visit Brahman and give it another shot. After much discovery, I have found that it's best not to harbor strong aversions or reactions. There is something that can be learned from every teacher. Long story short, I learned a great deal in Kajuan's class. He gives us sutras and also words of inspiration. His teaching style is a challenging journey of self discovery and discipline. His sequencing is as physically rigorous as a classical Ashtanga class but creative and fluid. I will surely be back to visit him and other teachers as well. read more

I love this Studio! Every teacher is a bit different so there is a lot to discover. The studio is bright and clean. Its also $5.00 a class, which is insane! But it makes yoga affordable which means I can practice every day without the excuse of money. If you are in the neighborhood check them out. read more

I'm giving Brahman a 3-star rating because I love that it's close to me, the studio is beautiful and comfortable, the classes are $5 (unbeatable), and the crowd that frequents the studio is really diverse (young, old, all different races, athletes, skinny people, larger people, everyone) and it always feels great when I see my neighborhood reflected in the people in my yoga class. That being said I don't really know if it's just a style that I'm not used to or if it's really weird because these classes are really fast for open-level classes. I've been to the open level (2 classes) and beginners classes (1) and both types of class felt very fast and only one of the instructors demonstrated the poses. I understand that it's a Vinyasa flow, but it is a flow and not a race. I didn't feel like I had a chance to get the pose down--when we knew what the pose was, since they didn't demonstrate and sometimes used the sanskrit names instead of the english--and really understand the sequences because I was so focused on keeping up so I didn't get completely lost. Of course you go at your own pace, but if they are 4 poses ahead of you, it's hard to keep up if you're going slower and/or doing sequences you aren't familiar with. I am not sure if this studio is the right one for me, but obviously there are a lot of people who love it so maybe it's just a fit problem. I've gone to come other places in the neighborhood that are much closer to the style of vinyasa I'm looking for so I probably won't be back. read more

This yoga studio was perfect for my needs! I'm only giving it 4 stars because: - the class moves pretty quickly, so it's tough for beginners - the room is very long and narrow and the instructor walks up and down, making it hard to hear at times (esp with the windows open and trucks passing by below) - there's no air conditioning - the instructor did not demonstrate most of the poses That said, the class was donation-based, has $1 mat rental, takes place in a beautiful space, and felt like a friendly and accepting environment. Full-price classes are only $8, which is unheard of in Manhattan. I had a great experience and will definitely be returning. read more

I LOVE BRAHMAN YOGA! This place is quite amazing! I'm thrilled that they opened up such a great studio literally around the corner from my apartment. I've been consistently taking classes here for about 5 months now and my practice has improved tremendously! It is unbelievable that with the quality of these classes and teachers that it only costs $5 per class! The studio is spacious, inviting, and surprisingly very clean. I love taking classes there in the afternoon as the sun is beaming through the windows. There is so much natural light. Their evening candle-lit classes are a nice way to end a long day. I have taken from almost every instructor at this point and they are all wonderful in their own way. They each have their own style of teaching, some more advanced than others, some more spiritual than others. I make an extra effort to go to Kajuan and Kelley's class. Their classes, specifically, make me leave feeling very uplifted, however, I do enjoy taking from all of the other instructors to keep my practice interesting. Classes here are open level, but based off the classes I've taken, it would be a little challenging for beginners to follow along, mainly because the instructors don't demonstrate much and, instead, use terminology familiar only to those who practice often. BUT they now offer donation-based beginner classes at 4pm on the weekends, which I would highly recommend to people new to the practice before taking their regular classes. The people who frequent Brahman go to strengthen their practice, gain flexibility, and ground themselves mentally. It is not pretentious in the slightest bit. All in all, this studio welcomes everyone. read more

I took two classes with different teachers and i absolutely love it! I want to come now every day ! Location is great , everything is clean, schedule works perfect for me. Its one of the best yoga classes I've tried so far . read more

Great travelers yoga home. Excellent value, the instructors are thoughtful and don't push beginners too far while also providing a challenging session to advanced students. Plenty of classes to fit your schedule. A great place for travelers to drop in without having to commit to a monthly charge or pay excessive per class fee. Mat rental available for only $1.00. read more

Really nice space overlooking 145th street. Study was clean and well organized. Members can leave their mats which I find super convenient. ( not an option at my home yoga studio). Instructor was friendly and attentive I would definitely revisit read more

This place is a godsend. Thank you, Brahman Yoga Harlem, for existing. You are an oasis. Ambiance is warm, inviting, candle-lit with a great view of the neighborhood. Yeah, the classes are a bit advanced but a good challenge even for beginners. The teachers are understanding and awesome guides - they push you to get more out of your practice. Andrea, Nicholas, Kelley - they're all badass. read more

I just wanted to reiterate my love for these classes! Classes with Kajuan and Lauren are my absolute favorite. Thank you! read more

4 stars for the price and location, 3 stars for the class I took... let me explain. First off, I'm so happy to see fitness studios like this popping up in Harlem. I'm new to the area and love that I don't have to travel far to take a Yoga class. Even better is the fact that this yoga class will not break the bank. For five bucks, you really can't go wrong. The Studio itself is lovely, though it was a bit hot when I visited, turning my Vinyasa class into a toasty hot yoga session, which I didn't love. My instructor wasn't the most welcoming when I first walked in, but he ended up being pretty nice and went around to do adjustments throughout the class, which I appreciated. This was my first class at Brahman and I intend to come back and try some of the other classes and instructors. It wasn't bad, but it wasn't the most interesting yoga class I've taken. Just kind of basic and uninspired, which is perfectly fine for the amount of money you pay. I'll update once I've visited a few more times. read more

I am so digging this place... I followed one of my favorite yoga teachers here, and a second favorite began teaching here shortly thereafter. I've taken classes with a few other teachers, and what sets this studio apart is that the teachers all seem to follow a similar style/philosophy/approach (Jivamukti inspired), but all bring their own personality, focus, and style to the class. This gives you that magical balance of classes that are reliable and familiar without being overly repetitive or predictable. As someone who is constantly trying to deepen my practice and stay challenged and fresh while still consistently focusing on certain elements and aspects of my practice, this is what I've been looking for in a studio. The physical space is very inviting, sunny, and clean. Mats are available to rent ($2 I believe), and other props are available at no charge. Also, I love that they leave mat spray out! An added plus. Since the studio is fairly new, the schedule is still evolving and expanding, so for the time being be sure to check the schedule online for the most accurate time and teacher information. read more

Brahaman Yoga is the best. All the teachers emphasize breathing and mindfulness over the physicality of yoga, which I really appreciate. In answer to some of the other reviews. 1. slippery mats - they have new black mats, which don't slip at all. 2. beginners should take Carole's beginner class - or really all of Carole's classes. I find that she is the most explicit about describing modifications - if you are not flexible, etc 3. I have only found the room to be chilly once, but I always bring a sweatshirt, hat, and sox - just in case. read more

My favourite yoga studio in NYC. It is so beautiful and perfect. Couldn't be more happy to have found this gem in Harlem where I live. It is affordable too. I really have no complaints. The teachers are fantastic. If I could I would live there, it's so bright and pretty! 5 stars! read more

Shout out to Arthur's 7am class. I am pretty new to yoga and his directions are clear. He is patient and kind and emits tons of love and enthusiasm for the practice. Well worth getting up early for. read more

I took my first class here last night. The space is gorgeous, the class was good, and the price is amazing. Towels and props are free and you can rent a mat for $2. I wouldn't recommend the classes for beginners, because the instructor didn't provide much direction or explanation. I had a good experience here and will look forward to my next class. read more

Excellent yoga studio with great instructors who really help you transcend the bustle of 145th, which in all honestly does float up and into classes on hot days when the windows are open. But the instructors are so good they bring you back into your practice and you don't even mind! I love this place and wish I could frequent it more often. The morning classes aren't early enough for me and evening classes are too late for me. What I wouldn't give for a 6 or 6:30 am class and/or a 6:00/6:30 pm class. I make it here as often as I can usually on weekends. Oh! And who can beat the $5 per class?? Nobody! read more

I started taking yoga classes at Brahman Yoga Harlem yesterday and I just loved it ! I took the Saturday 4pm class with Lauren and the Sunday 4pm with Chelsea, those classes are for beginners. I had a great experience both times and even if I don't know much about yoga for now it was very easy to follow the instructions given by Lauren and Chelsea. Coming here helped me a lot, I was in a real sad mood when I came in and I felt much better when I left. I will practice yoga more often now that I have found this place! read more

I think the biggest injustice of this rating is that Yelp doesn't let us give six stars. Brahman was my third yoga studio in NYC, and it was by far the best. Every teacher brings their own love for Yoga to the studio, and every teacher takes the time to share their practice with you. My own practice has improved exponentially because of the instructors at Brahman. They CARE, and in this busy city, that is difficult to come by. I am thankful for my time at Brahman Yoga and I encourage everyone to pay them a visit. I moved out of the city last week and, having had my first class at a new studio, I can say that Brahman really is the best. read more

Went here recently with a friend who lives nearby. Although I do not live near here, I would definitely make the trek to do another session. It was a small group, and the instructor we had was very informative and really wanted to push us! Beautiful space with huge windows that reminds one of inner peace and of optimism. Namaste. read more

Ok. Here we go.. I love that i can walk 10 min an take a class & the price is nice ,place is nice & clean, I took a friday 7am class. an here where it went wrong... 1. Instructor never ask if anyone had injuries, (any good Instructor know to ask,) 2. Instructor speak very low. hard to hear , especially if instructor is (she) facing away from you because she working her own practice. Instructor should show the pose / exercise then (mover around room ) to make sure everyone doing the pose/ exercise correct. so as not have anyone get injured . Not everyone at the same level.. I may check out a diff time / class see what happened , however i won't be taking a 7am class on friday. read more

Brilliant idea - affordable yoga with SUPERB instructors. Thank you Brahman! It may be out of your way, but it is so worth the trip. Plus, there is a great little coffee shop (Chipped Cup) just up Broadway a few blocks. read more

This place became my second home I love everything about it. Great instructors and amazing and peaceful space

I love Brahman yoga and it's instructors! I really don't want to share how much I love it because I don't want it to become overcrowded. But, this place is a gift to my soul. read more

I love Brahman Yoga - the space is beautiful, the atmosphere welcoming and low key. After practicing yoga for 10 years in Europe, UK and all over the US, this has become my Yoga home. I always leave there inspired and uplifted, physically and mentally. read more

Love this place. I've had almost every instructor and there is absolutely nothing to complain about. Each and every one of them being something new, challenging, and exciting. In the past year and so that I've been coming here, I've improved tremendously. Btw Kajuan? Amazing. Make sure you make time to take him at LEAST once. read more

This place is really a gem. The space is clean and the plants are healthy (always a good sign). I hope they remain open. I only went to one class with Nicholas. Only 3 people showed up (5 PM on a monday). 70 minutes went by really quickly. I definitely think you get more than what you pay for. read more

My favorite yoga studio in the area. I have been going since last summer. All the teachers are very nice and good at making adjustments. I brought my mom to a class and the teacher was patient with her. There are very big windows which during the day bring in a lot of light and the later classes have a great view. Awesome deal, can't beat it! read more

A fantastic and beautiful local studio. Classes are wonderfully paced, affordable ($5 per class), and held at convenient times throughout the day. Highly recommended if you're in the area! read more

After searching around for different studios in Harlem I was really glad and lucky I found this one. The place is clean, great atmosphere and not too crowded. Depending on the day of the week you get a different experience. My favorite is Sunday nights with Agnieszka which is a great sequence workout post Saturday hangover getting ready for the work week. During the week I also visit Rebecca who does great routines for the core and spine. If I'm really in the mood to workout I visit Nick's class, and if I'm ready to really challenge my self and my body then i go to Kajuan's class, which is really hardcore. In all a wonderful place, I hope it exists forever. read more

After visiting several studios in Harlem I settled on this one. I love the Vinyasa Yoga sequences and always feel worked out and at peace when I am done. It centers me and sends me on my way. read more

I went to a class here for the first time and loved it. Beautiful, spacious studio, cubbies for all my junk, a good instructor who helped when I needed it. A 75 minute class was 5 bucks, which is unbeatable. I love that it's a drop-in model. I was worried it would be very crowded because of this but there were less than 10 of us. Will definitely come back. I have been waiting for a yoga place within walking distance of my apartment for a long time! read more

Great space, convenient location. Instructor was nice, helpful and inspiring. Took one class and looking forward to more