Day 143- Yoga Collective, Guest Blogger Dez Arcieri

Over the years I have taken a number of yoga classes. From basic stretching-type yoga to Bikram, I have tried it all. And for the most part, I always felt very indifferent about yoga, and sometimes a little bored, because most of these yoga classes were just basic stretching. When I go to the gym, a yoga class, or some other kind of workout, I want just that, a workout. Most importantly, I want to be challenged and pushed beyond my regular routine, which usually includes the treadmill and light weights.

So, in the past I have generally stayed away from yoga for fear of being bored and not challenged enough. But when I saw a groupon for a month unlimited of yoga classes for just $25, I had to jump on the offer! Even thought I was still skeptical, I tried out my first yoga class at Yoga Collective in Santa Monica, CA., and boy was I relieved! Honestly, more than just relieved, I was challenged, energized and invigorated with the amazing energy of the class and the instructor.

Over the past three weeks, I have taken numerous classes at Yoga Collective with all different kinds of instructors and techniques. Yoga Collective offers classes everyday of the week, all throughout the day, so there really is no problem in finding a class that suits you and your schedule. All of the instructors are very well trained and incredibly helpful. Furthermore, they each bring a personal touch of spirituality and mindfulness to each class, which makes the experience meaningful and fun. For example, in one class I took at Yoga Collective, the instructor played fun Top 40 hits and even encouraged a dance party in the middle of the lesson! In another class we practiced “contact yoga,” where we introduced ourselves to our neighbors and proceeded to hold crazy yoga positions with them, sweaty and all! And in other yoga classes there have been live bands playing throughout!

Yoga Collective emphasizes the importance of community, sharing, and collective energy. Not only do they offer an amazing workout, their classes are fun and they also encourage a deep spiritual awakening. Please check out their website for the schedule, instructors, and events. Also, they are running a summer special for $49/month of unlimited yoga until September 15^th.

Guest Blogger: Dez Arcieri

Pura Vida!

Alica Ryan