Kali Yoga Studio is the experience I miss the most since leaving DC. All of the instructors encourage you to honor your body and also to continue to grow through each practice. Every single instructor I had here was amazing. Some really play energizing music to accompany your Vinyasa practice. Each instructor is very helpful at suggesting modifications and also assisting you with getting deeper into a pose. I came here when recovering from a traumatic accident, and through all of my surgeries, I continued to practice yoga here about four times a week. In every class I took, each instructor was so supportive and encouraging. There are two rooms for classes, which have exposed brick and wood floors. The rooms can get hot when practicing, and for Forrest classes, they are definitely warmer, but they are nothing like a hot yoga studio. I also really appreciate how many of the instructors here talk a bit about being mindful of certain things before making your intention for the class. They really offer some wonderful, down to earth thoughts for you to explore both during the class, and even after class. Some instructors also share quotes that are quite motivating and thought provoking as well. Kali isn't at all like going to a gym for a workout. Kali Yoga encompasses both mind and body, so you can hopefully live your life off the mat even more mindfully. read more

Dragon's Breath Yoga - Yoga Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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I have been taking classes with Darin for several years and really enjoy his professionalism, irreverence, fun, and challenge. He provides non-judgemental, helpful advice and support for folks of all ages, sizes, and levels. If you are looking for yoga instruction that is serious but doesn't take itself too seriously, you may enjoy checking out the studio. read more

While I liked the teacher of the class and her hands on instruction, the flow during this vinyasa yoga class was a little too fast for me. I felt rushed into poses and it felt like I could barely get a pose in before we switched. Sometimes, I just gave up and went directly to the pose I knew would be next. The space of this yoga studio is extremely, extremely small. It reminded me of New York! You go up a set of stairs and there is a small office with a very small changing area that is in the same room as the office, just blocked off by some curtains. There is also a tiny, tiny bathroom you could change in, but that is so small you can barely move a leg in there. Also, there is only one bathroom so if you are changing in there, you feel bad for the people waiting outside. I think there is only one studio (not sure), but this too was tiny tiny. We had 14 people cramped up in this space where they had the heater on low, but definitely was very cramped. After class, everyone coming into class and everyone coming out of class is in the same area which is a hallway where everyone's shoes and coats are, so it is definitely very cramped space and made me slightly claustrophobic. I got the $30 2 week new client special so I will try out some more classes, but after that, probably will not be back. Edit: They do have a second way bigger studio reserved for the 6pm class, which probably has more people than the 530pm class. They need to cap the 530pm class off at 8 people then since that studio is so tiny! Also, seems like the teachers get there right at the time class is supposed to start, so it was distracting to have her unrolling her mat while instructing us in what to do. I did like the teacher for my second vinyasa class more than the first. read more

This is my first *real* yoga experience. I've only participated in free classes offered at college or on lunch breaks at work. So I am by no means an expert. But being a complete newby, I have had a great experience so far at Kali. I have taken 3 different classes. Beginner night class at 7:45: only about 7 people, the instructor (Lauren?) demonstrated every pose, pace was slow, it was very encouraging and positive. The room was pretty warm and I definitely felt refreshed and I was very sore the next day. Vinyasa at 5:45 Work day: There are caps to the classes, but they pushed it to the max for this class. The room was steamy (which was amazing but not near as hot as "hot yoga"). This class was more advanced than I was quite ready for, but Abby gave modified options for all the poses. Again, the energy of the people and Abby was great and encouraging. As a beginner, I never feel out of place or like I should not have taken a class. I wish we had more room in the class, but also that would have meant I probably would be turned away because I barely made it there after work. Beginner Forrest at 12:15 Saturday: I expected the room to be warmer for this class, but it was the coolest the room has ever been. Some of the poses were a little rushed because I was so new to the concept, but it was a very unique class. Again, the instructor was amazing. He helped several of us get the poses correct. The class was full, but not overly full where you couldn't move without touching someone else. Do not show up late! They will not let you in because it distracts the class. Always show up several minutes before class starts because they are very punctual. For those coming after work, there are two places to change clothes: a bathroom and a change room in the office. The instructors have been great, the people have been great, and I look forward to my next class. :) read more

I went here last night for one of their community yoga classes. It is a free class at a different time by a different teacher each week, you can find info here http://www.quietminddc.com/free_class.html. It was a lovely class and the studio has a really nice vibe. I really appreciate this free weekly class, I think all yoga studios should do something to make yoga accessible to everyone, like poor medical students. It is a great place for new students because it seems very non-competitive and neighborhoody. Be warned though, there was chanting in my class and I know some people are turned off by the hippie-ness of yoga. They also have a pretty good intro deal - $20 for 2 weeks unlimited, which I plan on trying out soon. If it only weren't so far from my house, I would come here a lot more often. read more

You may think you've had some shivasana, but try one of Quiet Mind's restoratives and you may find yourself in a self-induced coma. I am not a yogi, but I enjoy a good centering or two to keep on top of my stress. Quiet Mind is a small studio in Columbia Heights with small classes, a lot of personal attention (if you prefer to hide in the back row, you can do that too), and very friendly instructors. I happened upon a day class recently on my day off. Nicole, founder and instructor, made certain to ask about injuries and gave me several options so I could nurse a sore back. I attended a level 1 class which wasn't particularly rigorous, but again, several options were given in order to make the class a bit harder. And, the restorative Nicole led at the end was unbelievable. I think I bent a spoon with my mind. If you are looking for more meditative yoga experience, Quiet Mind is a great little studio. And, the studio donates to various charitable causes. TIP: There is an introductory deal $20 for 2 weeks of unlimited classes. There is an online scheduling system, but the first time you sign up for a class, you have to do so in person. read more

It is kind of amusing that this place is called Quiet Mind since it is right across the street from a fire station. About half the classes I went to had some loud commotion going on outside. It added a challenge though, to see if you can pay attention to the teacher and not what is going on at the station. I typically failed at this, but I guess there is always room for improvement. The studio has a homey feel to it with nice hardwood floors and exposed brick walls. The space went through some renovations and now there is a separate check in area, which helps out a lot with getting students signed in quicker. My favorite teacher at Quiet Mind is Trisha Nakano - she leads a great vinyasa class with unique sequencing and good corrections. I think Trisha teaches an appropriately labeled intermediate class, but other intermediate labeled classes are not even close to being at that level, especially the intermediate yoga works style classes. Those should have been labeled beginner - and I mean serious beginner. read more

I took my first class at Kali Yoga studio last night because I wanted to take Mimi Rieger's class. Mimi's class is hands down 5 stars- I love her no nonsense, be strong and get powerful no BS attitude and the quality of her instructions and assists is superb! She teaches at a few studios so I follow her schedule and take class depending on my schedule and gave Kali a shot. Studio wise, they provide free water which is nice and not something many studios do (if at all) and mat rental $2 if you need which is pretty standard. Front desk staff was nice although right after I had filed out my forms, paid I was kind of left to find class myself until I asked where was I supposed to go? Oh heyy It's my first time and I have no idea where I am! Usually studios will show you around or at least verbally direct me to class but it could have been a few yogis who came to check in behind me that may have overwhelmed her to assume I knew where I was. Classroom where we practiced was small and with close to 20 yogis, quite intimate. Room gets wet from sweat and condensation so be careful when you walk out that you don't slip because I most definitely did! :/ read more

Quiet Mind Yoga is a sanctuary of restoration and strength! The studio is a beautiful room on the second floor of a row house a block above Tivoli Center on 14th in Columbia Heights. It also happens to be just a few blocks from my office so I can take advantage of the lunch hour yoga classes a couple times a week. Instructors are all very welcoming, encouraging and attentive to their students. Class sizes are on the small side so you have some space and the attention of your instructor if you need it. I feel like QMY is the first studio I've attended where I did not feel out of place as a beginnner, and I've surpassed my own expectations in learning and trying new things. I'd give five stars but there IS a fire department across the street, so occasionally a shivasana is interrupted by a departing fire truck - but hey, if you're doing it right you will barely notice! read more

This is a quiet little gem of a meditative yoga studio hidden away in Columbia heights. Many different teachers trained and teaching in a range of styles - some of which I had not encountered elsewhere. Quality. Range from highly athletic ashtanga to chilled-out restorative classes. -beautiful space. Beautiful. -great newbie special -very small classes read more

I've literally been to probably more than 50 yoga studios across the US. I could be biased because this studio is in my neighborhood, but really, I just think I'm lucky. Kali is such a great studio. It's a very "come as you are" studio: there is no one type, skill level, body shape, or personality. It's so welcoming, the teachers are fantastic, and it's the only studio I've found that feels like a community. The owner, Abby, personifies yoga. She's the most empowering, personable yoga teacher I've ever had. She's unique in her style and personality, which I believe carries through to the style and comfort of the studio. Her classes are really challenging, but she has a way of pushing you out of your comfort zone, while letting you believe you are still in control and calm. I still haven't put my finger on how she does this. My other favorite teachers here are Alicia, Michael, Jonathan, and Michelle. If you are looking for a gym-type yoga class (no nice talks or lessons, just get-down-to-it yoga), this is not your place. And while it's not a heated studio, it can get hot, which I love, but fair warning if you don't share that love. read more

Ohmmmmm! You will be relaxed and at peace with yourself and the world after a class at Quiet Mind. I really enjoy the classes here and don't feel intimidated by ueber-yogis showing off their pretzel skills. All the instructors I have experienced so far have been laid back and super nice in addition to be great teachers and experienced practitioners themselves. I really enjoyed one particular class which they call "Improve your practice" or something along those lines. It is for all levels and the teacher shows different levels of a certain pose so you can improve your practice. The room they offer the classes in is great! While I am usually not the ultra hygiene obsessed I am when it comes to yoga studios. There is nothing worse when you do your downward dog and see dirt and hair all over the floor. Quiet Mind Yoga is super clean and a beautiful, comfortable setting. The one down side is the fire station across the street which at times gets a bit distracting when a fire truck pulls out. read more

So, Kali Yoga is a bit too "yoga-y" for me. It's very much a "get in touch with your inner chi" kind of place, which is not what I'm looking for in a yoga class. I also found myself watching the clock throughout class, hoping that every time I finished a vinyasa it would magically have taken 5 minutes (sadly, vinyasa's do not take that long). The space is also a bit crowded - one of the studios involves going through the bathroom. Again, the place is not actively terrible. If this is your only option for yoga, go for it. But it would never be my first choice. read more

Abby Dobbs is an amazing teacher. She will meet you at your level and give you plenty of chances for challenge and rest. Kali Yoga rocks! read more

Dragon's Breath Yoga - Yoga Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Been going to Kali for a few weeks now and the teachers are fantastic. They have tons of experience and are very dedicated to yoga and their students. Definitely the place to push yourself and your practice to the next level whatever that may be. There is a very homey feel to the studio and it seems like everyone who works there is in a good mood and is very helpful if you have any questions or concerns. I'm really enjoying my experience there and highly recommend it to anyone at any level. read more

Not too impressed with the class I took here, which was described as beginner. The instructor was thorough and seemed to be knowledgeable, but I was unimpressed with her ability to communicate instructions and help the students to get a sense of what she wanted us to do. I liked her emphasis on body awareness, but I was pretty bored the entire class, basically waiting for it to start. The instructor was late, and we kept having to wait for silly things that interrupted our flow. For example, she did not think to have us get bricks before class began, and similarly did not pass them out, so there was quite the cluster-$%#* around the bricks for about five minutes. Also, there were not enough bricks. I guess I'm trying to say, I'm not sure if she's ever taught this class before. :) A lot of her class focused on the mental state of yoga, but at times it turned into a rambling monologue that wasted class time (and certainly disrupted the quietude of MY mind). If I were new to yoga and took this class, I'd think it was hippies (ahem) trust-i-farians pretending to be spiritual, and probably not see the value it can have for your physical and mental well-being. However, a good point about this studio is its beautiful space. The evening light coming through the tall windows, the uber-urban exposed brick, and the gorgeous floors made for quite an impressive aesthetic, but in the end, I feel like I paid $16 to take a nap. If you're looking for a workout and a challenge, beginner class here is not for you. If you want to relax and do a few easy poses (and by a few, I really do mean four or five), come take the beginner class. I didn't find it worth the money. read more

Not just a yoga studio, it's a community. Amazing classes with a wide variety, really affordable (a wide range of packages - check out the $30 unlimited 2 week new member special), and the instructors are caring and remember you. if you want more than a yoga studio, but a true practice and community, as well as a wealth of new friends- this is your place. read more

I did yoga a few times in college but haven't really practiced in a few years. I was interested in Quiet Mind and couldn't figure out their online registration system for my first time there. I called them and had a great chat with Nicole, who explained the payment system and how to sign up. She's so helpful! Since then, I've regularly been attending their classes around three times a week. They are really patient with non-experts and do a great job explaining the practice of yoga to beginners. The only downside is that classes can be a bit crowded sometimes. Even when it's crowded though, the instructors do a great job walking around the room making sure that students have proper alignment and balance. I also love restorative on Fridays... so relaxing! read more

Moved to DC a few months ago and after trying many other yoga studios, I've found my comfort in Kali. Abby, the other instructors, and those who have been going for years all make it a point to get to know your name and make you feel SO welcome. In addition, it's more traditional than some of the new yoga studios, which are more like yoga fitness classes. The classes are tough here but they always give you alternative poses to dial up or dial down your practice. read more

Amazing,amazing holistic yoga class. The class was free,but donations were encouraged. The instructor was amazing,I wish I could remember his name, but he focused a lot on different breathing techniques. We did a few poses, sun salutation, and then finished up with breathing. Mats are available to rent for $2, and water is also available for free. read more

So, I wanted this to be a good place, as I'm looking for a permanent yoga home in the area. Unfortunately, the class I took at QM did not cut it. First I'll run through the positives, and then the negatives. Positives: Great practice location. Other students seemed really nice, good vibes. Exposed brick and cherry wood floors make for an absolutely beautiful yoga environment. Nice complimentary mat spray at the end of class. Instructor did a nice, if too long, explanation of chataranga (sp?). It's nice to get instruction on that pose since it's a hard one. Negatives: I went to an intermediate class and did not sweat. I sweat a TON normally. I read the class description, and this should have been a challenging class for someone of my skill set-- I'm no yogi. But the class was slow, unchallenging, and the instructor seemed distracted. There were pauses. There were longwinded explanations. There were non sequiturs. There was no flow. The ipod kept doing a weird thing, but if your music isn't working, we don't need music-- just turn the damn thing off. I don't need music to get my yoga on. I need a focused, clear instructor to get my yoga on. The price. $16 for a 90 minute class might be market price around the area, but for the quality of class that I had, it's waaaay overpriced. The waiting area is awkward; you're chilling in a stairwell, and it's small. I mean, space is at a premium and better to use the space for the actual practice area. Still, it was awkward. Takeaways: The instructor might not have been representative of the other instructors at this studio, so take this review with a grain of salt. Nonetheless, my experience here was really negative. It kind of sucks to have to say this, but I felt like the class was actually not an effective use of my time. That's the truth. I would not consider myself a hardcore practitioner by any means, but I go to a class to be challenged and to feel better and clearer, physically and mentally, when it's over. This class was disappointing, to say the least. The one star is for the physical space. read more

"First Rule: You do not talk about Fight Club." I can't keep it a secret anymore! This place is brilliant, life changing and has won my heart. This is the Fight Club where I've been practicing all year and finally re-understand what The Beatles have been singing about. All you need is love, and when it shows in your yoga practice you're taken to a totally different place. Try it. read more

I've been to over eight studios in DC and this is by far my favorite. The best teachers in the area, two great rooms, great amenities, zero bullshit policies. read more

Generally I like the place, except the fact that they squeeze yogis like sardines in the can. Apparently the have no cap on how many people can sign up for a class. read more

This is my happy place. The classes are terrific and there is a real community of yogis and meditators that's welcoming and kind. Many of the teachers I've had repeatedly, particularly Liz, Abby, Lindsey and Michael, have taken an interest in my improvement and offer lots of adjustments and suggestions, always pushing me to the next level. They are also just really great people. Kali has become a positive force in my life, and I'm very grateful to the whole staff for everything they do. read more

I have only attended one class but if they are all as good as my first, I am hooked! Sign me up!

This place exemplifies what it means to be a community based yoga studio. I've practiced all over and have to say this is the best I've been to. The classes are challenging, fun, and the instructors are extremely knowledgeable. If you are looking for a place where you are looking to build mental and physical strength where you are surrounded by damn good people, this is where I'd encourage you to practice! read more

Everyone there is friendly and welcoming, I like this place a lot. I'm not wild that they aren't any mirrors to check your alignment, but I know some yoga instructors are anti-mirror so it is probably that way for a reason (or to take advantage of the walls for poses). It can be very loud when the fire department across the street has a call, but I think its part of the charm. They also offer community classes and nice deals when you start (free class or 2 weeks unlimited for $20, or bring a friend and get a free class), so they are good neighbors! read more

My friend raved about their more athletic style of yoga, so I hit up a community class - which is basically free with a donation to the charity of the week. The community classes are great, but can fill up quickly - get there early! read more

I went to Kali Yoga Studio for the first time and will definitely be coming back. The instructor gave clear instructions which made poses that didn't always come together for me make a little bit more sense. The teacher was not only effective but super kind. When it was raining outside and I couldn't find my umbrella, she insisted that I take hers. It was heartwarming to be the recipient of such kindness after a great class. read more

Wonderful place, just moved to Columbia Heights and was looking for a regular weekend place. Finished looking now. Dieu Tran was our instructor. She was helpful and had a good feel for the pace that the class was able to handle. read more

Reasonable prices, really good teachers, and a great range of class-types. What I really like about the people who practice here is that they don't appear to be competing with each other - e.g., people take breaks when they need to take breaks. I like that all options are welcome as needed, including child's pose. read more

If the studio weren't located so far from where I live, I would go all the time! The only reason I came here was with a Groupon or Living Social deal for three classes. The studio itself is small and seems up-and-coming. I really liked Yael's style as an instructor. Evening classes were pretty packed and there was a lot of street noise (but you'll get that pretty much anywhere in DC). Glad I found it through Living Social and sorry that I don't have a car to get to it. read more

Quiet Mind is fantastic! I haven't been getting there as much as I like lately because I moved from Columbia Heights to Logan Circle, but it's a really great studio. The instructors range in a number of styles, some are more flow-y and others are more alignment-based. The studio itself is beautiful and Nicole, the owner, is just wonderful and very personable. read more

sometimes I get weary and tired and let my practice fall off. My peripatetic lifestyle means its difficult to fall into the Sanga concept which is so beneficial to leading, or attempting to lead, the mindful life. However, after visiting 4 yoga studios in DC since I arrived here 8 months ago, I have found my family. Quiet Mind provides for me that place where the anxiety coursing my veins, can evaporate. No pretense, no ethereal 'bolox. Just a place where the instructors know your limitations and when to push or pull. I particularly appreciate the individual focus which my teacher gave to each participant, regardless of proficiency. For me, I fell I can learn more easily when watching instruction is given to others! I have found a refuge in a city full of attorneys. That says alot. (I'm an attorney). read more

Kali Yoga Studio is a great addition to Columbia Heights. I love the simple and unassuming environment and the teachers that offer instruction with humility and compassion for their students. I have only taken classes with Steve, Michelle, and Michael Peterson but could go on and on about each one. This is definitely a studio worth trying! read more

Love this studio! Instructors are very knowledgeable on anatomy and all things yoga, and often incorporate a theme or intention into class. Have practiced with 5 teachers now and would go to all of their classes again. If you like intense, sweaty power-ish yoga, definitely give a Forrest class a try. I had never experienced that style before but now I am hooked. read more

This studio is so great. The people who practice here are friendly, every class I've taken has been well-planned and a good workout, and (unlike some other studios I've tried in DC) the classes are not overcrowded. There are students of all levels and classes to accommodate many levels and styles of yoga. Even better than the atmosphere and class structure is the feeling of personal attention and community that I've had at Kali Yoga. I've been practicing yoga for a few years in other cities, but I feel like I've learned a lot from the pointers I've gotten in classes here over the last few months. Instructors have even offered to stay after class to help me learn poses I'm interested in. I know the names of some of the students in the class I attend regularly, and the people who check you in know my name even though I only go about 3x a month. It's so nice, and welcoming!! I definitely recommend this studio. read more

I thought I'd try this studio given that it was inexpensive due to a Living Social Voucher. The studio is small but inviting. Small dressing room and somewhat cramped hallway where you wait for class, but many urban studios have this issue. The staff were friendly and the space was clean. The fire station across the street mobilized a vehicle which was distracting but not enough to keep me from returning. I had a substitute teacher Rebecca Bly so I don't know how good the normal teacher of the advanced class is, but Rebecca was great and I recommend her if you can catch her at Quiet Mind or at another studio in the metro area. She was not a hands on person, but she brought an inquisitive and playful attitude to the class which I enjoyed. read more

This review is for the morning mysore program with Michael Joel Hall. I have been practicing with him 3-4 days a week for the past 9 months and it has changed my life. I chose Michael because he is a level 2 Authorized Ashtanga teacher. I have also practiced with Jen Rene at Flow Yoga and Tova Steiner at Sun and Moon Yoga but didn't feel as supported by them as I do by Michael. He is incredibly knowledgeable on the study of Ashtanga and not only explains the postures in sanskrit as well as english but gives helpful corrections and tons of encouragement. He is just as playful as he is serious. His students are devoted and everyone is at a different level. He will drop a quote from the Yoga Sutras or Iyengar one minute and then a Britney Spears lyric the next. If you are a serious Ashtangi or are interested in learning what it is all about you will not regret practicing with Michael. read more