High ceiling, an abundance of space, brand new equipment and furniture, this yoga studio is high class. It was hard to believe that I was still in Berkeley. Though I will say, I felt like a spoiled little brat because of the open space, limited moaning of people you commonly find from Yoga to the People, and the attention and feedback from Mary Strong. BTW, that woman is amazing in the way she facilitates. She is clear and speaks with intention. You can hear her voice radiate throughout the studio. Not an exaggeration. I usually don't attend 90 minute yoga sessions and I wish that I knew ahead of time though to prepare. The style of yoga "power vinyasa" is damn intense for an infrequent yoga(er) yoger? It's a real word to me, whatev! It seemed like forever when I was in each pose. I had thoughts in my head, of course behind the bullets of sweat, "Mary you can slow down time, too?" It's been like at least 5 minutes in this pose. But in spite of the intensity and the 90 minute sesh, the whole experience was beautiful and worthwhile even in 75 degree weather. She opened the window and the cool breeze from outside carried the lavender scent to help me have a very very VERY short moment of bliss. I'm so glad that I checked out this studio. By far one of the most memorable AND challenging yoga experiences. Thanks, Mary. You make me strong (har har har). read more

This yoga studio is a haven from the hustle of everyday life. The room feels open, welcoming, calm, and relaxing and I feel instantly more at ease once I roll out my mat in the studio. I have been a member since they first opened and have never previously done yoga. I have now incorporated it into my weekly schedule and have not regretted it. Every time I finish a class I am noticeably happier. EVERY TIME! :D it's amazing. All of the instructors are wonderful and have a slightly different style that you will find genuine and fun whether it is a more music pumping class you enjoy or a soothing calm yin yoga class where you feel so relaxed you may fall asleep. I will continue to go to the green yogi because everyone I have met there truly believes in yoga. They are beautiful, genuine people and I feel lucky to be part of such a great community :). read more

Short version: Kari's Yin Yoga class is an incredible, beautiful rare gem. I can't imagine anything more valuable I could have done with my Wednesday evening. Long version: I was in the market to switch yoga studios. I used to practice at Groove Yoga, but I wanted to try something new. I couldn't be happier that I did. This studio, first of all, is BEAUTIFUL. Every little sign, decoration, and detail looks like someone put their heart into it. I could feel the love when I first stepped in the door. It's got a cozy, boutique-y feel, with a big dose of positive vibes. The girl working the front desk was so kind and helpful for my first time there. I was astounded at the deals they have for their yoga students- by checking in on Yelp, my first three classes are $10. Total. You heard me, that's less than $5 a yoga class. And they never expire. Once they do, they offer deals on your first package of classes. I like. Second of all, the studio and everyone in it radiated warmth. I sensed a true yoga community. Kari, the teacher, came up to me and introduced herself right away. She was so nice to talk to. At the end, the girl next to me offered to take my blocks back to the shelf. I've been practicing yoga for 6+ years, and I've never had someone I didn't know offer to do that before at the end of class. The class itself: a beautiful, moving meditation. I loved that Kari said to stay in a pose longer if it felt right, and offered ways of customizing class to my individual body. I could breathe and truly relax where I was because I was told there was no "wrong" pose. I drifted in and out of relaxation bliss the entire time. I will be back very, very soon. read more

I'm sure the Green Yogi on MLK has lots of great teachers, but with my limited time, I end up just going to Carly's class on Fridays. It's a luxurious hour and 15 minutes. Carly brings grounding, centering energy in addition to feel-good flows. The space is clean, bright and beautiful and the front desk staff are all so kind. I highly recommend! read more

I love the Green Yogi -- lots of great teachers (like Alyssa DeCaro!!) and cool events to round out their offerings. The space is beautiful and the front desk is always super friendly. read more

I love the Green Yogi! The studio has become a sanctuary for me. The space is beautifully simple, with cute decorative accents. I always feel just a little more peaceful just by stepping in the door. I have had the privilege to take classes from most of the instructors, and have enjoyed each of their unique styles. I love Megan's classes for their strength building and variety. She always kicks my butt with her challenging flows, but simultaneously motivates me with her insane knowledge of anatomy and her playful use of vocab; saying phrases like, "emancipate your rib cage from your hips". I also thoroughly enjoy Christy's classes. Her bright smile and joyful energy are always a pick-me up after a long workday. Christy regularly checks in with students needs and is creative in incorporating them. Mary's Saturday morning classes have become my favorite way to start off the weekend. They always leave me feeling grounded and rejuvenated. This class is an especially popular one, so get there early if you are someone who likes to stake out a spot on the edge. I also have liked going to the Yin classes, where I have gained a new understanding of the power of breath. They have good package deals and a great student discount. I sincerely recommend the Green Yogi to yogis of any level! I am so grateful for this studio and to the people who work there. Enjoy! read more

The Green Yogi is a special yoga studio. The studio is beautifully done with a fresh, clean, and welcoming vibe. The staff is wonderful and friendly but what impresses me the most is Mary Strong, the proprietor. Mary is graceful, kind, and positive. She teaches a class that provides benefits and challenges to all levels of yogis. That is a skill. In my years of practice, I've been to over 20 studios from NYC, LA, to SF and the Green Yogi is one of the most memorable. Kudos to Mary and her team and I highly recommend this studio. read more

Yoga can be a very personal experience. No one studio or ashram is right for every one. Green Yogi has a team of teachers and managers that make it my favorite place to practice in Berkeley. While the practice space is somewhat tight, the teachers work hard to welcome all students and make space. And true to its name and ethos, The Green Yogi doesn't blast the heat throughout the class. Expect to sweat, but don't worry about roasting like a Bikram chicken. Take advantage of the many different class packages available, and excellent deals for new comers. You can also get credit for a free class when you introduce a new student to the studio. read more

This is my first review. I am taking the time to write it because I truly love this business. I am a yoga nomad. I will travel around for inspiring teachers or special spaces but have never landed on one studio. When The Green Yogi opened in January, in my neighborhood, I was thrilled. The space is beautiful and inviting, making you feel better as soon as you walk in the front door. There is a deep sense of community there. Friends to be made and lessons to be learned. The Green Yogi is a great place to stretch yourself in a nurturing, supportive and yet challenging enviroment. I get really excited each time I get to go. This nomad has found a home. Maybe it's yours too. read more

The Green Yogi is, hands down, my favorite yoga studio in the East Bay. I started my yoga journey at the first location, in Manhattan Beach, where I fell in love with vinyasa yoga and the laid-back community vibe of the studio. I was a grad student at the time, and was easily able to afford the classes. When I moved up to the Bay last summer, I searched everywhere for a studio that could compare, but was always disappointed by the rigor of the classes or the vibe of the studio. Yeah - I'm a spoiled yogini. So, I felt so lucky when Mary decided to open her second location in Berkeley! I've been going regularly since they opened their doors in January. :) The studio itself is beautiful and serene - always filled with fresh flowers and yummy-smelling candles. The classes are all-level, and Green Yogi teachers are always happy to accommodate yogis of all levels. You'll feel yourself improve your practice and get stronger - Green Yogi vinyasa classes are an awesome workout - plus you'll always leave relaxed. You'll get to know your teachers and fellow classmates. I can't recommend this studio enough! read more

I didn't know what to expect when I went to the studio because I'm used to doing vinyasa in the heat Zuda in Sacramento. But this place really exceeded My expectations. I also liked the vibe of the place. The Yoga instructor Kate Dedlow made me feel welcomed and made the class really interesting . I'll be back! read more

The greenyogi yoga I recommend it. Just had my first lesson there with Sonya so far but it was wonderful and she is kind and knowledgeable.

This is such a wonderful spot! We just moved to the area and I always try to find a great studio to call "home"... And I think I've found it. I've taken 2 vinyasas and 2 yins, both have been what I needed, when it was needed. I do wish they offered more of a variety of classes (like hatha or nia or kundalini) but what they offer is top notch. The space is clean, smells nice and feels homey. I have seen a few creepy crawlers running on the floors in the back of the room, but nothing that could not be removed with a paper and cup (humanely) and I actually am glad they don't use harsh chemicals to clean or remove insects, would just hate for something to run across me in savasana ;) overall, happy to have this spot in our new 'hood! read more

Green Yogi MLK - Such a great space! - Yoga Near Me - Berkeley, California

I began attending classes at The Green Yogi in October and had never taken an in person class before though I've meddled with YouTube yoga in the past. I began on Thursday nights with Shakthi and their nourishing flow class. Shakthi has a very healing presence and her class is accessible to beginners but still a challenge and great workout. Due to my work schedule changing, I couldn't make Thursday any longer so I opened the website and found Carly's class Tuesday nights for her Jivamukti Flow. This class has improved my life in ways I did not expect from physical strength to the improvement of my mental health. Carly offers a yoga class that is challenging yet peaceful, insightful, inclusive and healing. Carly takes the time to foster community with the prompt for all students to share their names and something to be grateful for which as simple as it sounds, serves as a great reminder to be present and thankful. Carly offers assists if wanted and goes from student to student during shavasana and aligns the shoulders and neck in a way that feels very healing . On one particularly hard day in my personal life, Carly made her shavasana rounds and when she got to me I honestly felt like she reset my crown. Her classes offer poetry and music that support any theme she may be addressing and are fully thought out practices that feel complete and whole. I work as a first responder in a stressful field and I find that during Carly's classes I find myself to be the one who is taken care of and it is very comforting. I now have branched out and take classes from a range of wonderful teachers like Rachel, Tina and Sonya who all have something magical to offer. Even their subs like Ryan are great so if a scheduled teacher has to be out, you know you it is still worth it to show up. I have found the unlimited yoga pass to best suit my needs as I can drop in last minute or schedule ahead as many classes as I may need that week. Do yourself a favor and take a class, any class and I promise that when you leave you will take with you something that is yours that you didn't even know you had lost. read more

I love the energy of this studio, and the fact that it's a pretty even mix of hip 20 somethings and health and fit Middle-aged folks. The teachers are very respectful, professional and kind, and the student culture is accepting of new comers. The sequences are challenging but doable for someone with experience. But I wonder how safe they are for someone with injuries, new to yoga or lacking body awareness. That said, my background is in Iyengar yoga and not Vinyasa. read more

I feel like being apart of The Green Yogi has made me such a happier person. I stumbled across them this past January as Mary and Donnie were still putting the place together. I live so close to the studio that I knew I would be going back. At that time I needed my yoga practice back in my life. I had taken the winter off and felt very unbalanced and not as peaceful as I wanted to be. I have been going to the Green Yogi since their opening in January 2014. I enjoy everything about it! Let me list some things for you to think about; very sweet and attentive owner, friendly staff, (we all call each other by name:) warm and comfortable environment, simple/calming style, crazy-wonderful yoga instructors, very professional/knowledgeable, yummy candle scents, clean floors/surfaces and props, the room is usually around 80 degrees, they open a window if need be, water and tea always present, you can rent mat's, they are welcoming to everyone, good prices, man I feel like I have said so much. The Green Yogi helps me gain balance, peace, happiness, de-stress, pushing my limits. (when I want to) I am amazed with the poses I can do. The instructors are good with beginners and make the practice work for intermediate-advanced all at the same time. I feel that this has to do a lot with how they don't force or make you do anything you don't want to but are making suggestions for your practice so that you are able to decide what you are wanting. The environment is fun,creative and carefree. It seems that people can be really serious with yoga but here they remind you to smile while your moving! In a nut shell, The Green Yogi is super rad!! I think the readers best bet is to just try it out for yourself and see what you think! read more

Beautiful space, welcoming staff, and great teachers! Lots to like about the studio. Would be five stars, but they don't offer that many classes. Why no noon classes or more classes on weekends? read more

Love this place, love the people. Green Yogi is small enough to feel like family (and be called by name) but big enough to host a diversity of great teachers and feel like you're part of a community. Favorite teachers Megan, Mary, Nashon, all of them have a great range to push you when you need it and let up when you need that too. I love the origin story, too...how it all began. I won't spoil it for you, ask Mary! read more

I discovered the Green Yogi through Class Pass and I love it so much that I drive to Berkeley from Oakland even though there are many great places to practice by my house. The studio itself is beautiful and clean, and it really feels like peaceful sanctuary. I practiced for years while living in New York and DC, where it seemed like many studios endeavored to create a clean, good-smelling, relaxing space for yoga, but I haven't experienced that much in the Bay Area aside from the Green Yogi, and maybe Laughing Lotus and Nandi, but GY definitely takes it to the next level with scented oils and ginger candies. Both Naushon and Reba offer invigorating classes, and I'm looking forward trying more of their teachers as well. read more

I'm very sensitive to fragrances and this studio is too harsh. The level of smell reminds me of walking past Abercrombie and Fitch at the mall. I wish that it was a fragrance-free safe zone so all can enter safely. read more

Wow. Such an eclectic group of teacher/guides, every class is different. The guides are clearly carefully chosen by the the studio - I assume from the quality of teachers that it must be a privilege to be chosen to work there. Teachers learn your names and are welcoming. Though not heated you WILL need a a towel to dry off. Really clean. After being in business for less than a year classes are now almost filled to capacity. DO you guys have a plan for when the word gets out? No showers. Really clean. Street parking available within a block. Ok my only complaint: Silence might be preferable over music ( if tracks not as carefully considered as the teaching practice itself). My suggestion is that Mary, with such great taste, chooses a monthly soundtrack that can be used by or all or not at all? Sometimes one can't even hear the guide over the music- but maybe I should have my hearing checked - or can yoga help improve one's hearing? read more

I've only been to this studio for the intro special so far and so can tell it's going to be a studio where I become a regular! With their excellent staff, beautiful and well kept facility, and full schedule I am looking forward to coming back for so much more yoga to make my body, mind, and spirit soar! read more

I historically super hate the rote, impersonal Power Yoga classes I've taken in the past, at other studios. But The Green Yogi's location is convenient to me, so I suspended my dislike in order to be able to take a class that fits my schedule. I am so happy I did this. I've taken six or seven classes here now, and I love this studio. The teachers are fun and engaged, the students are friendly, the space is clean and bright. I can't recommend The Green Yogi highly enough. read more

Have explored every yoga Studio in Berkeley, and I must say, I'm so happy green yogi opened here! The space is absolutely beautiful and brings me so much joy when I come here. Not only that, but the instructors here are the best I've ever met, especially Christy is the absolute best! read more

The Green Yogi is my favorite studio in the Bay Area. The space is always clean and smells wonderful. The studio is eco-friendly and provides a free mat rental if you walk or bike. All of the teachers are very attentive and approachable. I've been practicing yoga for about 8 years and I can definitely say that the instructors here have broadened and challenged my practice. read more

The Green Yogi is a fantastic yoga studio! I am so happy it has opened up in my neighborhood. Mary and the team go to great lengths to make people feel welcome, getting to know most people by name. All the teachers I've taken classes with are excellent - they lead satisfying routines that allow you to challenge yourself at whatever level you are, and adapt if you're relatively inexperienced. I've learned more yoga at this studio through several classes over a few weeks than during my years of off-and-on practices at various studios. The studio itself is bright and airy, is kept at a warm and comfortable temperature. And it has many details that make it feel homey and like you're really treating yourself by coming - ginger tea, lavender essential oils, candles the flicker in the evenings. The prices are super reasonable for any studio, but especially so given the high quality of the Green Yogi. I highly recommend it! Thank you Mary and the Green Yogi team! read more

I always thought Yoga wasn't "my thing" until a friend brought me to the Green Yogi - as an absolute beginner. Going through a difficult type emotionally and physically right now, Yoga helps me to stay sane, calm, and get in shape (all at once :-)). My favorite instructor was Eric Tabora, but he no longer teaches there. Each teacher has a different style and you have to go and try it out to see which one you like best, but they're all very good. It is also fun to see different styles, it keeps the practice interesting. The good thing is that all instructors offer modifications for beginners, intermediate, and advanced levels, so everyone can participate, no matter how long they have been doing Yoga. I wish they would offer more classes, though, especially on the weekends and early in the mornings. read more

Love this place! Beautiful spot/setting for yoga - open, airy and clean in a way that seems surprisingly hard for many studios to master; fabulous, knowledgable instructors; and very friendly staff and clientele all around. The Sunday 6pm yin yoga class is my favorite - so relaxing and restoring, a wonderful treat to start the week off right and guarantee a great night's sleep. read more

If yoga studios were like restaurants, the Green Yogi would be Chez Panisse! Every detail has been carefully considered and it shows. The space is wonderful - open, light, and punctuated with furnishings and details that reflect owner Mary Strong-Sullivan's great taste. I would not be surprised if the team from Yoga Journal uses this space for a photo shoot sometime soon! Classes are taught by solid and diverse slate of teachers. A warm and attentive staff make sure that things go smoothly. In the months that I've been a student here, I've seen classes filling up with familiar faces - testament to the community being created here and the quality of the teaching. read more

The Green Yogi is the yoga studio I've been looking for since I started yoga 5 years ago. I found my perfect place! It has a serene, modern vibe and is always clean and bright. I have taken several teachers' classes and I've enjoyed all of them and I like the power yoga style. It's a nice mix of flow and holding postures. I feel like I get a good workout with the focus still being on the mind/body connection. Everyone has been very friendly. One of my favorite parts of this yoga experience is the temperature of the studio. It's kept in the low 80s which makes for a warm but not hot class. It's the perfect yoga temp for my practice and I love this aspect of this studio. What a find this place is- go as soon as you can! read more

I only have the best things to say about The Green Yogi! It's a sheer joy to be in that environment. Every architectural detail feels creative and lovingly considered. When my mind wanders during hard poses, I look at all the ways in which Mary (the founder) has provided for students. The simplicity and efficiency of the space affects me more than I ever realized it would. My last yoga studio was a frustrating maze, and that always spoiled my mood a bit. At The Green Yogi I love the sunniness, the clean feeling (which has something to do with the wooden floors, I think), and the natural colors. I also love the use of recycled materials. The whole place feels inspired and inspiring. Oh, and that goes for the 21st-century thinking behind having us sign in on laptops instead of wasting paper. Ingenious! I realize this sounds more like an architectural review than a yoga-centric review, but that's because I imagine that all the rest is up to the teacher. I've only had great teachers at TGY. I always enjoy chatting with people after class. It feels like something wonderful has happened to all of us together. I've met more people in my 8 months at TGY than I did in 12 years at my last yoga studio. I don't know why, but people just seem so warm, friendly, and happy at TGY, including the staff. The people behind the desk are all extremely pleasant, and they all remember my name. I'm not sure how they can do that with so many people around! Finally, the location is incredibly convenient, at least for me (and for many others who live nearby). I've needed something like this in my life for a long, long time. I'm so glad it has arrived, and I'll do anything to support it and to spread the word about this wonderful space. read more

It's about time I write a review for my favorite yoga studio ever. I have already told so many people about what a fabulous yoga studio Green Yogi is! Even a couple of strangers I spoke with as I walked to class--I've subsequently seen them in class and they were so grateful. I feel so blessed that Green Yogi opened in my neighborhood, two blocks from my house last January. I'd been noticing the work Mary and Donnie were doing to make it the beautiful space it is, and one evening they were there and I poked my head in and they were so welcoming and friendly. I started going to class as soon as they opened and I still feel that every class I attend is a precious gift. Every one of the teachers is top-notch, challenging us without pushing too hard, giving us a great workout but also showing us unusual poses that work specific muscles, joints, or organs. They each have their own blend of music that coincides with the amount of energy, then relaxation we're generating in class, which is also helpful to tune into. There is always some focus on going inward and listening to our bodies, but not much talk--we move through vinyasas or hold poses the entire time! Until we get to the end and what we've been working toward the entire time--Shavasana. I hadn't been a regular yogi for many years, but I've gotten much stronger and more flexible since January, I notice I'm able to do most everything during the classes. But every teacher emphasizes that there is always child's pose if our breathing is ragged or our muscles need a break. The Yin classes are also amazing, when you hold a pose for 3-5 minutes, you go deep! I was shocked at the end of the last Yin class I attended when it was time for Shavasana, I thought we were only half way through class! Mary Strong has gathered a fantastic group of yoga instructors, including and especially herself, and has attracted a wonderful staff who know us by name and are always friendly and helpful. If you want to know more about this special place, you'll just have to come check it out! You'll be glad you did! read more

The classes at this studio are challenging, welcoming and fun. I always fell better walking out that I did walking in. The staff and teachers are friendly and responsive. I recently had a billing issue that the studio owner personally helped me resolve. Their desire to make customers happy really shows at every level. read more

Skillful instructors, inspired practices, warm welcomes and the uplifting space are all reasons why I highly recommend The Green Yogi! Mary and her wonderful team have thoughtfully cultivated a motivating yoga community. I have been practicing with the studio since its opening in January (and with many teachers and studios previously) and I look forward to satisfyingly vigorous workouts and the sense of well-being that I gain from each class. I also appreciate the studio's philanthropic perspective (proceeds from some classes and purchases are donated to worthwhile causes) and the very reasonable student rate, which makes top-notch yoga accessible to graduate students, like myself. read more

I first discovered The Green Yogi while it was still under construction. I literally walk past the corner of Virginia and MLK every day and I was so excited to see a yoga studio was opening up. I knew I would like going there, if nothing else because it was a block from my house. But it quickly became one of my favorite yoga studios in Berkeley. This intimate boutique studio feels like a yoga family. At other studios, I rarely talk to other students before or after class but here I talk to every one. The front desk staff is aptly titled "guest relations" and they know every student by name. The teachers seem genuinely excited to see me when I come to class. And you can't beat the price. In fact, this is the first studio where I have bought a monthly unlimited pass. (Normally I am more of studio hopper). Each of the teachers (or Green Guides as they're called) have their own diverse teaching style. But some of my favorites are Megan Spencer King. Her Pilates background and attention to the intricate details of the body comes through in every class. Christy Evans, who never teaches the same class twice. Her playful attitude and fantastic laugh bring joy and fun to a practice that I sometimes take too seriously. And don't be surprised by Kari's Yin classes. Her classes aren't just a bunch of yogi's lying around, instead through her calm and gentle nature she helps my body open in areas I rarely ever access. As a new studio, their schedule is a little light. But I hear rumors that they'll be starting some new classes in 2015. I'm looking forward to seeing what other options they have in store. read more

We've been going here two or three times a week for four months as our first experience with yoga, and it's really working well for us. Clean, spacious studio, friendly folks and a variety of good instructors - try them all and you'll find the ones that match what you want to do. We started with the milder Relaxation classes, and then shifted to the Power Vinyasas and we're slowly getting better. Laid-back atmosphere, not too much crystal rubbing stuff. Recommended! read more

The Green Yogi is such a pleasant space, and the instructor was wonderful. I got the introductory pass, which was really reasonable. Definitely my favorite yoga studio in Berkeley. read more

The Green Yogi is the place I go to get back in touch with myself, to reconnect with my source energy. Mary has created a wonderful space full of very grounded, positive people. I have been somewhat leery of yoga in the past in part because it feels so much like a "scene". The Green Yogi doesn't have any of that clique-ishness. Clean and green for the spirit. Thanks Mary! read more

After attending classes at Green Yogi for two weeks I can honestly say this is my all time favorite spot for yoga classes. Each teacher was unique and able to guide me into body and spirit awareness like no yoga class I had taken before. It was equally powerful for my body, mind and spirit. read more

The Green Yogi is my peaceful place and mid-week retreat. The instructors are wonderful and experienced, the studio itself is clean and gorgeous, and I leave every class feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. I love the Manduka blocks and props, as well as the hot tea and ginger chews that are there when you need. The studio is kept at just the right warmth to break a sweat during class. Jaime's classes are unique (and my favorite) and I love the music she teaches to. So grateful for Green Yogi's presence in the East Bay community :). read more