Last Saturday Courtney and I took a “Slow Flow” yoga class in downtown Phoenix. During my time as an undergraduate I always thought doing yoga would help out a lot with my daily stress, and although I did attempt it and took a few classes through my college and local YMCA, I never felt like any of them did anything for me or were really a good fit for me.

So last month before I started Grad School I declared on Twitter that I really want to start doing yoga regularly (as a way to relieve stress, and get a bit of a workout in). Soon after Courtney says that we should do the classes together, and then our hunt for a great yoga studio began. After a few weeks of searching around trying to get our schedules in synch, we ended up going to Urban Yoga in downtown Phoenix. While the studio is a bit of a drive for the both of us, the city atmosphere, chic building/studio space, and amazing class made it totally worth it.

After getting into the class a little late, we scooted our way into to floor spots next to one another. The class itself was for beginners and was absolutely full that morning (which made for an extra hot room). There was lots of stretching, poses that worked every muscle in my body (I swear), and also a little bit of resting. The hour and fifteen minute classes ended with a relaxation time in which the instructor (who was extra spunky) banged a gong for ten minutes. I think the gong was a little unnerving for Courtney and I (the room sounded like it was going to explode!), but it was nice to rest the last few minutes of class.

We came out of this experience extra sweaty, but feeling really good about the experience. This week we are going to continue our yoga routine by trying out a new studio in Mesa. I already can’t wait!

Do you practice yoga? If so, do you attend classes, or do it at home? What do you love about it the most?

-Chelsea XO