In just a few days is the much anticipated grand opening of Yoga Belly Studio. It’s a new yoga studio that focuses on power-yoga. The owners told me that they’re all about “yoga as a serious core workout.” They’ve been working on the studio for the last month and invited me in for a tour. The place looks fabulous and I love that they have a disco ball in the middle of the room. The entrance to the studio is on Hope Street and there is a huge parking lot at the front door of Yoga Belly.
This yoga studio is all about sweating and not so much about the philosophy that sometimes is associated with the yogi crowd. Think of it as yoga-for-meat-eaters and vegetarians alike! They want everyone to feel free to workout, regardless of their belief in Eastern religions and whether or not their shoes are made of leather or vinyl. I like that. The goal for everyone is to sweat and feel good. Leave your preconceived notions about yoga at the door. You’re going to love this new place.
The only one you’ll be competing against is yourself. There are 3 classes being offered right now: Intro to Power Yoga, Power Yoga and Hot Yoga Belly. “Hot Yoga Belly” is a slightly heated room and focuses on the core muscles. They’ll also have a special Wednesday evening class called “Rainbow Flow” that will celebrate the diversity of Mountain View. It’ll be a more colorful version of the regular Power Yoga classes.
I asked about the name “Yoga Belly” and the owners, William Cristobal and Aaron Goodnow, explained to me that it comes from several different ideas: first of all, when you breathe deeply in a yoga class, you use your belly, not just your lungs. Sometimes people refer to a “fire in the belly,” and if you do this particular style of yoga long enough, you’ll have a damn sexy belly!
Aaron told me that something magical happens when you stretch your body to its limits and focus on proper breathing. You completely relax and actually start to experience a natural high. His eyes sparkled (like a disco ball!) as he told me how much he wants to share that magical feeling with our community. And I believe him. I’m not quite ready for Power Yoga, but I’ll see you at the Intro to Power Yoga class!
Yoga Belly: Welcome to Mountain View. We’re happy to have you!
[mappress]