Situated in Little Italy, Infinite Yoga is tailored for those who want an authentic Ashtanga practice. After trying out most of the yoga studios in the San Diego region, I was starting to feel a little jaded and bored with my practice. I felt that my practice was becoming more physical than mental, and I wasn't sure if I was really going anywhere with it.
At the urging of my yogini/yogi friends, I tried Infinite. I don't regret it at all, and I wish I came sooner. The teachers I have had here are very nice and they each have their own style and flair; you are bound to have a unique experience with each of them (in a good way!). Most of them have trained directly under Tim Miller (whose studio, FYI, is AMAZING, but I digress). Not only that, but the classes are challenging, not just physically but mentally as well. While I enjoy physically demanding classes that strengthen my balance and stamina, the actual mental process that goes on within each posture and breath makes the practice inspiring and worthwhile. To me, that is what differentiates yoga from acrobatics or gymnastics.
I've tried both the all-levels and Level 3/4 classes and I enjoyed them immensely. Even if there are some postures that seem too intimidating in the Improv Level 3/4, there is a modification or an option, so I encourage any intermediate yogi/yogini to try them out and explore their boundaries. While I can do inversions quite well, I still have difficulties going in and out of backbends (how *do* you get in and out of urdva dhanurasana?), so I use the wall and I'm not criticized for it. :)
For beginners, they do have classes for them as well. On Sundays there is the Foundations class and during the week there is a Core25 class that works with the core (obviously) and finishes with more restorative postures. I don't recommend complete beginners to take the Ashtanga classes unless you are very familiar with the Primary series. Although I have taken the all-levels Primary Series class, I did think it was fairly challenging. The Ashtanga classes are comfortably heated at 80 degrees, which I think is perfect. I'm not a hot yoga practitioner (I actually hate hot yoga, tbh), but a little heat goes a long way and complements the internal heat your body builds as you get deeper into your asana.
Periodically this studio will hold workshops and retreats. I haven't taken them, but I have heard through friends they are worthwhile and informative. Very occasionally there will be class specials, so I encourage anyone to check out the website frequently to take advantage of them.
Because this is located in Little Italy, parking can be kind of tricky, so make sure you familiarize yourself with the location. I haven't had issues finding parking, but if you are coming in before 6 pm, make sure you park a block or two away from the studio (where there is 2 hour parking). Otherwise, it is $1.25 per hour at the front. I think they give parking passes for students who are unlimited members; I haven't inquired about it as I've just done drop ins and parked a little further away from the studio. As for the studio space itself, it's reasonably sized and I've never had an issue with being too close to my neighbor (or maybe the times I went it wasn't full, lol). It can be a little confusing the first time you come in because you have to walk through a very long hallway until you finally reach the actual studio lobby. There is a little dressing room and some Manduka products for your purchasing needs.
If you are looking to deepen your practice with yoga, I encourage you to come to Infinite. I guarantee you'll have a wonderful experience after one class session. read more