Scrolling down and reading the rest of the reviews should convince anyone to give The Green Yogi a try. Unanimous gratitude. It is a temple of serenity that offers a needed balance and perspective to offset the hectic pace we all engage in. I decided to investigate because the studio is literally 112 steps from my door...an invitation from the universe, I could not ignore. Being in my 60's, I was worried I would not be able to keep up with the supple,young students who populate the classes. It was admittedly challenging at first, but quickly became easier, and then, completely addictive. The increase in energy, strength and stamina has benefitted my life immensely. The power classes will make you sweat, getting the heart and blood pumping. The yin relaxation classes will stretch out your ligaments, muscles and even your attitudes. Everyone at The Green Yogi is as kind, personal and positive as everyone else testifies. It is never too late to begin.... the rewards are waiting patiently for you. read more

This is such a great space to practice Vinyasa yoga. I'd never tried Vinyasa before December, and came into Green Yogi completely, well, green. Took a couple of the Yin classes, which are wonderful, but then Mary offered a Vinyasa 101 class which was the clincher for me; the the powerhouse work-outs are the Vinyasa classes, and I love it! The various instructors all have their own styles, and each is its own unique experience with different music, tempo, overall intention. The studio is clean, nicely lit, and a really comfortable space. Unlike others, I haven't notice scents that are troublesome, and I'm fairly sensitive. Nothing feels competitive or hardcore, though the sessions can be incredibly intense. The instructors are all very encouraging and take care to make everyone feel okay going at their own pace. I'm sure there are other great studios out there, but this one is great for me. Mary has also added later evening classes, and although my work schedule is flexible and can usually make the earlier classes, it's nice to have this option. read more

I have tried almost all the yoga studios in the east bay. I have never experienced anything like this place. The quality of the teachers, the warm and caring community, the environmentally conscious awareness. This place has changed my life. It has given me a place to call home, a community of my own, and a sense of real family. Because of this place, my spiritual and physical practice has become the core value of my existence. Thank you for being here Green Yogi! read more

I love this place. Great teachers, lovely atmosphere, convenient location. I just wish the classes were offered at more convenient times. A 7am or 12pm weekday class would be so great. 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 had let them know. I feel so blessed that Green Yogi opened in my neighborhood 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 interior is gorgeous, the sign-in process is streamlined and done on tables at the front desk (so green!), the staff are friendly and the owner is a lovely, calming presence in the studio. I've only taken 2 classes so far - a 4:30 flow class and a Sunday evening yin/restorative class. Kari who teaches the yin class was an amazing teacher who led us through a journey inward. It was very meditative and a necessary way to end the week, let alone start the new year! It's a cozy yogi's haven nestled on MLK in N. Berkeley. read more

This is my favorite east bay studio by far! And not just for the classes but also for the great community that they have created. I highly recommend for all level yogis! read more

I could go and practice Yoga at any studio, but I chose to go to Green Yogi and here is why: Not only is the front desk staff incredibly helpful and kind, but they go out of their way to make me feel welcomed. Each yoga instructor has a different ability to challenge me, mentally and physically, in every class. I have taken class with all of the teachers, and while every teaching style is a little different, what connects them all is a none-judgmental approach to the practice. Nobody pushes his or her own agenda. It's all about one's own practice. The owner, Mary Strong, has created a studio with community in mind, the community of people who come and practice and the community at large. Proceeds of yoga classes are regularly donated. The studio itself is crafted with reclaimed pieces, FSC certified wood and much more! How awesome is that? Green Yogi walks the talk and it shows! Thank you for awesomeness in class and going above and beyond the mat, thank you for creating community. That's why I practice here. read more

I had been looking for a new yoga home when The Green Yogi opened in January. I immediately found that The Green Yogi was exactly what I was looking for! The founder, Mary Strong, has created a first class yoga studio. The physical space is beautiful - bright, clean and soothing. My husband and I go between 3 and 5 times each week. We have had the opportunity to take classes from most of the teaching staff. All of the teachers are enthusiastic, inspirational and knowledgeable. They all have their unique approach and are all top notch. They are able to challenge experienced yogis and provide modifications for newer students, or people with injuries. The classes are nonjudgmental and non-competitive. Additionally, the entire reception staff is very welcoming. They make it a point to know every student's name. Our yoga practice has grown tremendously since we started coming to The Green Yogi. We both love the energetic 75 minute practices for both the physical and mental benefits. read more

This is a long-overdue review, since I've been practicing at The Green Yogi for several months and loving it! I was looking for a new studio where I wouldn't feel old or out of place (I'm in my late 40s). I was initially a little apprehensive about the "Eco-Chic" self-designation, but needn't have been. The studio is well-lit (lots of natural light), very well maintained, and spa-like in decor and ambiance. It's usually heated to ~81-82F, which is warm but far from "hot yoga," and it's very well-ventilated. Most of the teachers and students are women, but all are made very welcome. Things I particularly love about the studio: the class prices are very fair (especially if you purchase a multi-class package, monthly pass, and/or buy when they have a special deal, which is pretty often), the classes you've paid for never expire, they offer free mat rentals if you walk or bike to the studio, and everyone is warm, welcoming and helpful, making it feel like a real community. They provide chilled water, hot mint tea, a perpetually full jar of ginger chews, and some well-selected items for sale (Manduka mats, towels, etc.). The class schedule has recently been expanded (including a new pre-natal class, check it out!), which is awesome - there are multiple classes every day and I can usually find one that fits into my busy schedule. Street parking is always available within a block or so. I've taken classes with at least 8 different teachers, and they're all inspiring and wonderful. They take each others' classes and all teach a similar style of power Vinyasa, which is low-impact but challenging, enhancing flexibility, strength, endurance, self-awareness, and inner calm. The instructors make an effort to get to know students by name and are very helpful in answering questions, making corrections, and suggesting modifications to accommodate injuries or other issues. Check it out! read more

I'm probably the biggest fan of founder Mary Strong and the entire crew at The Green Yogi. I've been going there since it opened several months ago and was so excited to finally find my "yoga home" in Berkeley. While there is no shortage of yoga studios in this area, out of the several I'd gone to none had the magical energy of The Green Yogi. From the moment I first walked through the door, I knew this place was special. Everyone was so welcoming and warm-hearted and the studio radiated with positive energy and peacefulness. Not to mention incredibly amazing yoga teachers with unique and fun styles that are applicable to any level of practice. There is a vibrancy and genuine warmth in the Green Yogi community and I feel so blessed to be a part of it! My husband and I come as regularly as we can, we've brought several friends and even my parents when they visit from SoCal: everyone loves it (and I think you will too)! read more

Best yoga in Berkeley! And I should know, I've tried everywhere. The studio is a beautiful white, airy space, and from the moment you walk in the door--where you'll find lemon water and sometimes ginger cookies waiting for you--you feel both pampered and peaceful. The teachers are without exception excellent, offer satisfyingly challenging classes and actually do adjustments (sadly unusual at many yoga studios). But the real reason I love this place is the wonderful warm, community feel. At many Bay Area yoga studios, there's a more-serene-than-thou standoffishness, but at the Green Yogi, staff members are always friendly and always remember your name and even what's going on in your life. All sorts are welcome here--not just sleek young power yogis, but also people in their fifties and sixties. The students pick up on the welcoming, vibe. At a prominent chain of Bay Area yoga studios where I've been to many classes, teachers often prompt students to say "hi" to those on either side of them. At Green Yogi, students need no prompting to greet each other and chat at the start of class. The same faces appear week after week--for good reason. read more