Active Girl
OM Yoga, Union Square
In a city where flyers advertising yoga studios share real estate alongside vendors selling imposter Louis Vuitton and Marc Jacobs handbags on the sidewalks of trendy Union Square, it is an Olympic feat to discern the real thing amidst the slew of imposters. A studio that stresses principles of alignment, places a distinct focus on breath instead of the fanfare and confetti of gym billboards toting bleached blondes in white leotards that read, “No Pain, No Gain!” is what makes OM YOGA, steps away from Union Square, such a delectable find. Under the direction of the renowned Cyndi Lee (a twenty-year practitioner of both Hatha Yoga and Tibetan Buddhism and author of several books and DVDs, most recently, Om Yoga Beginner/Intermediate Class.), her and her team of over thirty experienced teachers will lead you through a vigorous, but playful, alignment-centered asana practice.
Entering the huge, softly-lit studio, the atmosphere is spacious and comforting with high billowing ceilings and distressed hard wood floors. Color, from the purple and electric blue blocks, to the satin saris draped from the ceilings, is abundant and makes for a sensual, lux experience. The studio is efficiently run by friendly staff that provides relief after one’s stressful workday through speedy service. The rooms (named Sun, Earth, Sky, etc) swell with natural light and whirling fans. While you find a spot to plop your mat, you’ll hear the chatterings of the community of students forged, or perhaps soothing music with Indian, and Asian roots, everything from Moby to Coldplay to WAH!
OM offers classes for all levels, including specialized attention to moms-to-be (Prenatal and mOMs), as well as Buddhist meditation classes for those folks who need to distress from everyday life. Cyndi Lee notes, Learning Buddhist meditation helps us to see what is, as it is, rather than wishing things were different or trying to change our reality. Meditation and yoga is about living your practice off the mat.
Whether you are just starting your practice or you seek teacher certification at flexible times, OM offers a healthy selection of classes for morning into the late evening, including “express” classes (a 1hr practice) for gals on the go. “Open” classes that encourage attendance of all levels are usually full; however, the atmosphere is inviting and friendly for the beginner. The teachers add to this non-intimidating atmosphere by encouraging questions and learning each student’s name. Additionally, the studio also sponsors retreats from the Hamptons to Brazil for those yoginis who want cart their mat on a whirlwind, exotic holiday replete with waterfalls, fresh food and sun salutations on the grass.
A common misconception about yoga is the fact that people believe yoginis never break a sweat. Head over to OM and experience an hour and half of challenging poses that leave you breathless, that strengthen your body, and provide a sense of calm, the buzz, when you leave.
TIP: The studio does not take class reservations, so plan to arrive at least 15 minutes early to secure a spot, especially for the 6:15 after work classes that fill fairly quickly. Also, yoga classes (like anywhere in New York) are fairly steep. Secure a class card to reap huge discounts on a per-class basis. Keep an eye out for monthly unlimited, discounted specials.
OM YOGA
826 Broadway 6th Floor
New York, NY 10003
(212) 254-YOGA
Subway: 4/5/6, N/R to Union Square
