At a Glance:

Website: http://www.aurapulse.com
Address: 8608 Sunset Blvd, A, West Hollywood, CA 90069
Length: 60 minutes
Price: 1 class/$20, 10 classes/$180, month unlimited/$160 w no commitment
Sweat scale: low
Energy level: low

Sunday night offers many relaxing yoga classes throughout the city so I decided to end my week with some breath practice and meditation. 

Pre Sweat

Aura Yoga is located in the same shopping center as Hot Pilates on the Sunset Strip. It’s location is ideal because of the gigantic parking lot–it’s one of the few studios where I don’t have to worry about finding a space. I checked in at the front desk and headed into the studio, already glowing with a turquoise light.

Sweat

I checked in and set up my mat noticing that some people were using just blankets and pillows. The instructor, Harry, handed us each a thick paper towel and explained that this class was going to focus on letting go of suffering. We all closed our eyes and put our hands on a part of our body where we held suffering. The goal was to replace the suffering with something positive by the end of class.

During the next 60-minutes we laid on our backs listening to loud, techno type music with the cloth over our eyes. At the beginning of each song we practiced breath of fire (breathing in and out of your nose as quickly as you can) and then held our breath and deeply (and loudly) exhaled. Harry kept reminding us to focus on our breathing and clear our mind.

At the end we came back to a seated position and Harry had us take deep breaths while thinking about positive qualities. We reminded ourselves of our suffering and replaced it with something encouraging. Lastly, we turned to our neighbor and spent a few minutes explaining to them how the class made us feel. Although I could see the benefits of this meditation style class, I think it was a bit too passive for me. Each week has a different focus/style so I would like to come back.

Post Sweat

Check out my post on Hot Pilates for a run down of the area.

Tricks of the Trade

• The studio does not have a water fountain so make sure to bring one already filled or be ready to purchase one.
• The instructors are extremely accommodating, don’t be afraid to raise your hand and ask any questions during class.