At a Glance:

Website: http://www.jadeappleyoga.com
Address: 10502 Magnolia Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 91601
Length: 75 minutes
Price: 1 class/$18, 5 classes/$70, month unlimited/$110 w 3 month minimum
Sweat scale: low
Energy level: low

This was my second yoga class ever and, to avoid a $2 borrowing fee, I decided to go all out and buy a yoga mat beforehand. I headed to TJ Maxx and left with a beautiful turquoise one for a mere $12.99, carrying strap included! I felt pretty legit when I walked into the beginners class that night.

Pre Sweat

I love when studios give you parking deets before you arrive. My ClassPass reminder email made me aware of the plethora of free parking around the studio. There is nothing worse than sprinting to your yoga class completely stressed out because you waited for someone with their lights on who looked like they were leaving and never did (…does this happen to anyone else?). I found a spot around the corner and walked inside, only after taking a selfie with my new mat, duh.

I signed in and let them know that I was new to yoga. I was the first one there so I set my mat up near the front and took a seat. The room was clean and welcoming, with a few candles lining the walls. As other people started coming in, I learned by example and got a blanket, two blocks, and a strap.

Sweat

Having been to only one other yoga class, I can tell you that my experience here was very different. The instructor, Elizabeth, led us through a variety of poses very quickly. I enjoyed the pace and felt challenged. We did planks, downward dog, warrior II, reverse warrior, half sun salutation, bridge, three-legged dog (downward dog with one leg up and bent), cobra, chair, and lunge, along with other poses that we moved between fluidly. We also spent a lot of time using our strap to stretch our legs. When the class came to an end, Elizabeth turned off the lights and came around with organic (it is LA) lavender essential oils as we laid in savasana.

Although this class was more physically challenging, I did not feel stimulated emotionally like I was during my class at Liberation Yoga. This class focused more on the movements than on the mind. I have been told that yoga is all about finding a teacher that works for you, and this made me believe it. I am becoming more confident about trying other studios.

Post Sweat

About a half of a mile down Magnolia, in the NoHo Arts District, is an adorable café called Republic of Pie. They are known for quiches, pies (sweet and savory), and coffee, but also have a variety of teas, salads, and sandwiches. Eat Noho is also a delicious option for breakfast and lunch favorites, but they are only open from 8-4.

Tricks of the Trade

• If you are new to yoga, definitely try to get a spot in the back. I found myself having to look around often and it was much more difficult doing this from the front row.
• Make sure to go at your own pace. Elizabeth mentioned many times that we were always free to go into downward dog or child’s pose at any time for a break.