When my weight loss hit a total plateau, and I lost my free gym membership, I knew I needed a place to do something, and I had a feeling that if I bought a gym membership, I would probably only go for the classes, and many cheap gyms don't have classes available for free. So I thought, yoga. Yoga is low impact, but relaxing and toning as well. I had done yoga a few times at Lifetime Fitness (up in MN), and I remember enjoying it. After searching online for yoga-specific places, Yoga in Motion SA seemed the most normal/realistic. I have to say after attending classes 2-3 times a week for about 6 months now, I love this place, and I will be a yoga addict forever. I make sure to buy the class card, 20 classes at a time, and I only watch for my name on the renewal list once in a while. For me being a pseudo-beginner, Kathy was a great teacher for my first class. She explained the basic concepts to me and told me to adjust as my injuries required, and also explained the OOJI breath technique, all before we started class. I've always felt comfortable and never felt out of place there. My normal teacher now is Effie, the studio's owner, and she is marvelous. I hear her voice even as I am standing long hours at work reminding me to "think up," and "keep your shoulders back and away from your ears." She's such a delight to chat with before class and I find myself showing up earlier to do just that. I typically attend the Beginner Flow and All Levels classes, and unfortunately my schedule doesn't allow me to make any other classes except the ones at 5:30 pm, otherwise I would try my skills at an intermediate class gladly. I feel so much stronger, and yet each class still challenges me. I have attended a few of the Intro to Gentle yoga classes, but those are mainly floor based stretching classes, which feel great, but I feel as though I'm challenged more in the Beginner and All Levels classes. I also love going when I hear that one of the newer instructors, Suhail is teaching. He is marvelous at getting you in sync with your breath and timing the movements over and over again to the breath. His teaching method is a great change up to my practice when I get to attend them! Overall, this place is awesome, I am one of the regulars, and plan to continue as long as we live here in San Antonio!! read more

YIM has been a lifesaver for me. I've been a student at the studio off and on for over 5 years...thankfully more on than off. I am an over 50 woman who started taking yoga as an exercise outlet to stay limber, work off a few pounds and ease a stressful life. I gained so much more than I bargained for through yoga. Always having a bad lower back and not being able to sleep, yoga has relieved that pain immensely. I sleep better, lost a few pounds and just in general makes me feel so good when I leave that I hate it if I have to miss classes. When I first started going to YIM Effie, the owner, was the teacher in the sessions I went to. She is wonderful and the perfect teacher for a beginner who knows nothing about yoga. I still go to only the Beginner's Flow classes and they are still difficult enough for me. I typically go to the earliest classes in the morning. Our numbers range from 8-15 at the early classes and most of my fellow classmates range in age from about 35-65 which I love as we are all equally challenged and not so intimidated by youth (my pardons to youth but for those of us who are older, it's nice not to have to compare our aging bodies to your youthful ones all the time). Effie does not teach all the classes anymore, usually still teaches classes the last week of the month, but Claudia and Kathy are both excellent. Their teaching styles differ but that is a good thing as my body gets a different type of movement/workout from each. The studio itself is lovely, calming, well equipped and is conducive to learning the art, practice and calming effects of yoga; it is a lifestyle studio and not a gym. If you haven't tried yoga, please try it, your life will be enriched in so many ways. Your body will feel better but not only that, your mind will feel better. Thank you Effie for a great yoga home! read more

I visited this studio all the way from England - that's how good it is! I was in Texas for work and went along on my friend's recommendation. It is a truly lovely place to practice yoga. The studio itself is really pretty, it's very clean and has the atmosphere for a peaceful practice just right. Effie is an excellent teacher, she explains each pose succinctly and clearly so that getting into them will feel effortless. I'm sure that she would be excellent for beginners and established yogis alike. What I especially loved was the intimacy of the set-up. So many yoga studios nowadays are huge corporate events where tens of people are packed in without any thought for how that might affect the student's ability to participate. At Yoga in Motion you feel part of a community but will still feel that you have the space to breathe and stretch without feeling overcrowded. Finally, Effie's voice has an almost hypnotic cadence to it, I can guarantee that your savasana will be the most relaxing you have ever had after listening to her! One final thing - your first class is free! So you have no excuse not to go along at try it out! read more

I love Yoga in Motion. My sister and niece asked me to attend a class last summer. I have to admit I was a bit hesitant as I'd always wanted to try Yoga but thought that even a beginner's class might be too much for me. I was wrong! The instructors are wonderful at making sure first-timers are welcome, encouraged and taught the right positions. I love the classes and started attending two times a week and what a difference it made on my lower back. Right after my first class, I really felt like my entire body was re-aligned. I still have a long way to go and may always stay in a beginner class, but Effie and her instructors have made me love yoga. I've introduced a few friends to the class because I wanted them to have this great experience, too. They're hooked! Yes, life gets in the way some times and I don't always make my classes, but the minute I feel a little twinge in my lower back or feel out of sorts, I rush to a yoga class and what a stress relief. read more

I have just recently attended a few classes at Yoga in Motion after recommended to me by a couple of friends. I have done yoga off and on over numerous years and enjoy many forms of exercise from running to volleyball to cross fit training. I always love it when I come back to yoga. I love the core strength that is builds and focuses on and its low impact movements. I have found that the instructor makes all of the difference and YIM offers great instructors. They are very dedicated to what they, you can feel that they love what they do and they are very good! Each class is a bit different which I enjoy and need. The same rountine each time is something that videos offers. The studio itself is a great location, clean and quiet. I have found a new home for my yoga practice and the way they operate, you only pay for what you get - no monthly dues, just purchase each class as you go. I am a huge fan of YIM and can only recommend it! read more

I am a short time member and a long time wannbe. I finally got try yoga while on vacation a few months ago in North Carolina. It just happened to be Vinyasa style yoga. Even though I wasn't familiar with the poses and style-I loved the way I felt after the class. On the flight home, I searched for the local yoga studio and it happened to be Yoga in Motion. I have been attending for about 5 weeks now and I can't rave enough about the benefits I have gotten. Even though I am extremely active, I have a long way to go with mastering any of the poses. But in such a short time, I have strenghtned my legs, my back and my core. I don't wake up with the aches and pains I once had; and I find my posture to have improved and I always "think up". Effie and the staff are great motivators, and all have a great passion for what they do. It's true what they say...yoga is life! Give it a try! read more

I've always enjoyed my classes at YIM. The studio is a great space- private, calming, perfect music. I don't easily feel comfortable trying a new workout place, be it a gym or yoga studio, but I felt immediately welcomed at YIM. Even the other students are always helpful to point out where materials are stored or make room for you in a crowded session. I've attended classes here from 4 different instructors and feel that they are all highly knowledgeable and highly motivated to help students succeed. They almost always provide beginner versions of poses for us to try if a pose is too advanced, allowing everyone to find their own pace and get the most out of their session. I haven't attended YIM in many months because of work and family obligations, but if these were not an issue, I would love to practice at YIM every day! read more

YIM is one of the few places I miss in San Antonio. This humble studio is where I made my first foray into the wonderful world of yoga. My initial class was a Sunday all-levels session with Effie, who is the true embodiment of what a yogi should be: caring, but tough, and completely dedicated to the pursuit of personal improvement. Not to downplay the amazing challenges that Claudia's classes pose. Claudia is an amazing specimen and I am perpetually in awe of the things she can do with her body. So much muscle packed onto the tiniest frame! Needless to say, I always found every class welcoming and always left sore and peaceful. I moved to Austin a year ago, and have yet to find a studio with as much heart as YIM. I will forever honor this little place as a fortress of love and strength. read more

One of the most pleasant and inviting experiences I have had in the "Zen" movement. Coming into the studio, I was a bit scared, since I am a dude and had never done the yoga thing before. I was motivated however, since I was looking to turn my life in a different direction and away from all the fast paced stress inducing activities of the past. Effie was welcoming and made me feel right at home, especially with her repetition that Yoga is not a competition and wherever you are at in your level of the practice, then that is where you are supposed to be at that moment. So then, when I saw my class mates turning themselves into pretzels, while I was only able to do a downward facing goldfish, I did not feel inferior one bit! Thanks Effie for your approach to things. read more

Happy B-day YIM! The Studio radiates warmth and compassion. With great insight gained from her depth of teaching experience Effie brings her deep understanding of the philosophy of Yoga to every practice. Her approach supports every student in their engagement with this ancient tradition. Her staff of well trained and capable instructors are a big plus for YIM and a schedule of special classes and guest teachers brings a nice balance of instruction that helps one grow a more seasoned practice. It is with deep gratitude that I give thanks to all at YIM, both those that teach and the many that come to learn and practice, and again, happy 9th birthday YIM. Ken C. read more

I can't say enough great things about Yoga in Motion and its proprietress, Effie. I recommend her class to anyone who wants a good work out ! And as an added bonus you'll get a soothing session that - if you work at it- will connect your body, mind and spirit. The studio is clean and the classes are unique - you won't get the exact same session repeated over and over. The instructors are attentive, and the atmosphere is calm, non-competitive and respectful. As I said, I could go on and on, but the best way to find out how great it is- is to just try it. Mats, blocks and blankets are available, I recommend bringing a small towel. read more

I have lived in San Antonio on and off for the past 4 years and whenever I can I come here for yoga. I'm a former gymnast and young and in shape and I still find the intermediate classes a refreshing challenge and if I want to take it easy I can go to easy flow. I've been a student till recently and you cannot beat the price at $10 for almost 2 hours! it's $15 otherwise which is still good, especially compared to other places like in Austin or the north side where it's a joke. I always feel the yoga time is well spent monetarily and time wise. read more

YIM is filled with positive energy, encouraging words, and a place where stress is left at the door - one of my favorite spots in San Antonio! I have been a member for a year and truly enjoy each and every practice. I attend the intermediate classes led by Effie, who is phenominal. Her love, dedication and determination are evident to all. She also challenges everyone to push their limits (while listening to your body), which helps everyone grow in their practice and become stronger and healthier. I can't say enough great things about YIM. read more

I love the ambience in the Yoga in Motion studio! I also love Effie's verbal guidance as we flow through the postures. Her approach has just the right level of spirituality without being religious or ideological in any way. I don't want my yoga sessions to be just another exercise class. I need the spiritual aspect of it, too. Also, the sessions I've participated in (with Effie and Claudia) provide just the right amount of challenge. There are always things I can't do during a session, but this gives me something to work toward. read more

My first yoga class was at Yoga in Motion with Effie about a year ago. I am hooked and appreciate the detailed instruction provided by Effie and other instructors during practice. The studio is beautiful, well maintained and relaxing. Effie always remembers each student and is supportive as they develop in their practice. The schedule offers a beautiful mix of classes and times to fit your need. I am most grateful to Yoga in Motion for all the benefits I have gained from practicing there! I highly recommend it! read more

Yoga has been on my to-do list for a long time. I tried a few different settings over the years but never stayed with it. Have now been to YIM for 2 different beginner/intro classes. This is a lovely studio, very inviting and welcoming. I felt comfortable with both instructors, even though I am an "extreme" beginner. Effie, the owner welcomed me and was the instructor for one class, which was great. The "regulars" were also welcoming and encouraging. I think I have found my yoga home. Peggy read more

Yoga in Motion and Effie Wood have been in my life for much of the last nine years. I have found the basic classes to fit me perfectly. Over the years, I have been able to strengthen my core muscles and achieve a level of flexibility I never thought was possible for me. Because I know Effie and company truly believe in the power of yoga in our lives, I continue my yoga practice at YIMSA. I highly recommend YIMSA to everyone who asks what studio I prefer. Namaste! read more

I highly recommend Yoga in Motion. The class was wonderful on my first visit. Effie made me feel very welcome and special. She encouraged me and actually allowed me to participate near the front of the class since this was my first class. I felt very relaxed and peaceful after the class. I slept incredibly well that night. Effie has the gift of teaching yoga and it shows. I highly recommend this class to everyone, read more

Yoga in motion has a variety of levels and instructors. Effie the owner has a very soothing way about her and her classes are excellent. Kathy real strength is keep you flexible and I need this!! Claudia likes to make sure your posture is correct and likes to go around the class to make sure she is able to see you. Tonight I will try a new instuctor. My daughter introduced me to yoga, you'll like it Mom and I do!! read more