YogaHop—'You Don’t Stop…'

On any given Friday evening I will bump a little “Rapper’s Delight,” by Sugarhill Gang, to shed the weight of the work day and start my weekend off right.  What makes for an even better night is to listen to this song while I chaturanga dandasana my way into downward dog at YogaHop Pasadena (www.yogahop.com). My good friend and I try to take two to three classes each week, trying out different instructors, including Mary, Marko and Jonathan. I love an establishment where everyone knows your name and greets you with a generosity of spirit.  Within that same vein, the attention to detail and individuation of instruction leads me to believe they care about my practice as much as I do.

YogaHop is a different kind of yoga. What stands out most to me is the use of upbeat music which sets the tone for the hour. The pace is continuous so I prepare to sweat by bringing a hand towel and reusable water bottle in addition to my yoga mat. When I want a cardio workout, and am not much in the mood to meditate, I choose to attend one of the multiple, daily classes offered.  Poses are taught so that anyone, no matter his/her experience, can make the most of his/her practice.  Classes are generally no more than ten people, although class sizes do vary.  This manageable teacher to student ratio allows the instructor to glide through the room, making small adjustments to each practitioner. 

YogaHop provides a fun environment in which you can strike a pose without feeling the pressure of having to perfect it or force your mind to be completely quiet, like in other practices.  That being said, a candlelight class is offered later in the evenings, for those desiring a more tranquil experience.  While there is a definite time for that aforementioned style, I do believe there is something beneficial about practicing yoga while Fergie sings, “My body stay vicious. I be up in the gym just working on my fitness […],” in that sultry voice of hers. 

The class closes with a final resting pose, a necessary conclusion to the series of poses whose primary purpose is to lead you to that peaceful place.  Then, the instructor will graciously share what a privilege it has been to share his/her practice with you and you leave the studio in a euphoric, yet rested bliss.

Lastly, both the Santa Monica and Pasadena locations offer deals through organizations like Groupon (www.groupon.com) and purchasing a series can cost less than paying for individual classes.

Until next time, may you shine from the inside out.