The Vibe: Sun & Moon I arrived early. The studio wasn't open yet. The attached coffee shop was. So... pistachio latte. A friendly barista let me in to explore before class. Then Maria gave me a quick tour and one warning: "You're okay with HOT?" Yes. And she meant HOT. The Guide: Maria Kogan * Urban Hot Flow We began in Savasana. Maria invited us to choose our own intention. Mine: Anugraha. Grace. Blessing. We slowly made our way to Samasthiti. Maria reminded us to return to our intention. Then... movement. Breath to movement. Sun A. Sun B. Continuous flow. It wasn't until Half Moon that I noticed: One side of the room: high ceilings, blue light. Across the room: lower ceilings, gold light. Moon. Sun. Same room. Same flow. Maria offered options for anyone feeling spicy: Half Moon Block Pass (a/k/a Halo). Star Plank with Pulses. The flow stayed continuous. Core near the end. Deep stretching. Then Savasana. Yoga Field Note: Blue & Gold. High & Low. Sun & Moon. Contrast. Opposites. Together. The Space & Place Older architecture brings its own character. High ceilings. Unexpected angles. A spacious yoga room divided by architecture and light: High/Low. Blue/Gold. Mirrors. Showers. Changing space. Attached coffee shop. Old bones. Modern yoga. Studio Notes: * HOT means hot * Plenty of mat space * Mats & blocks available in the room * Showers, lockers & changing area * Attached coffee shop * Worth arriving early read more

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This class kicked my butt (in a good way)! I booked Gloria's urban hot flow yoga class in Belltown location. it was intense but left me feeling great. The temp is set too high but Gloria's personal attention and gentle praise (she remembers everyone's names!) will give you a motivating boost. Loved the vibe and the studio overall! read more

Urban Yoga Spa - Yoga Near Me - Seattle, Washington

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I was visiting Seattle and was looking for a studio, ran across this spot and it was such a cute studio. Clean and smells amazing. Definitely will come back when I'm in town read more

Urban Yoga holds a special place in my heart, marking a significant part of my yoga journey! After revisiting it after a decade, I'm thrilled to see that it's still going strong. However, I believe there's potential for even greater impact, particularly in the Seattle area, which seems to be lacking in HOT yoga options. One area for improvement could be their social media presence. The space itself is phenomenal--spacious with numerous rooms upstairs and downstairs, along with a spa. Given the size of the facility, I can understand the high overhead costs involved in rent and teacher salaries. To attract more participants, it might be beneficial to explore current trends while keeping yoga as the core focus. Offering classes like Yogalites or yoga sculpt could draw in a larger crowd. The studio used to be bustling, and I truly believe that if more people were aware of this hidden gem, they would be eager to join. While the studio is both hot and affordable, a fresh coat of paint and some improvements in the restrooms would enhance the overall experience. Overall, this place has tremendous potential to continue being a go-to spot for excellent yoga! AND they have a coffee house attached to it, come on, talk about a true Seattle go to for a sweat and coffee!! read more

Visited for work from Los Angeles and booked a Hatha flow with Camille. She was so kind and led a great, smooth, and supportive flow. So easy to follow and honestly it was one of the better classes and studios I've been at even compared to LA. Only regret was that I didn't ask her out on a date When I come back for work I'll def book again. read more

This place is going down! Class room is so dirty, dust and hair everywhere! So gross, every other studio keep extra clean during the pandemic but definitely not urban. I don't think the studio is clean at all. read more

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Excellent! I'm visiting from out of town & decided to try the visitors special ($49 per week, unlimited yoga classes, free mat/towel rentals). This was my first time trying hot yoga & I'm sold. They offer so many time options with a wide variety of instructors-- including early morning classes. My favorite class type was the Urban Hot Flow. The instructors were excellent. I love that they have a deal where if you clean for 3 hours a week you can have unlimited yoga classes-- I'd definitely do that if I lived here. Urban Yoga set the bar high-- I was physically challenged more than I've ever been in my practice & felt a greater sense of grounding. I'm going to be hunting for new (hot) yoga studio when I return home. Thank you Urban Yoga! read more

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What can I say, I have tried 10-15 different yoga studios to over the years, through multiple moves, and this one is the best. I've been coming here for nearly 10 years. Yoga is hot but not crushingly hot, power flow is a great workout, people are so kind and friendly. Thank you, thank you, thank you, to urban yoga spa staff and teachers for such a great experience. read more

A great little yoga studio in downtown Seattle. Came here on a one day pass to take a hot yoga class. The class was excellent. The staff is very friendly and the facilities include a locker room with showers. read more

I was in town for a couple of days for work, but I had to get some yoga time in. I found Urban Yoga Spa via the Mind Body app, and it was a convenient 6 min walk from my hotel. Urban Yoga Spa is centrally located. It's right in the heart of down town - super close to Pikes Market, the waterfront and shopping. Registration was easy since it was my first time at this studio. Unfortunately you can't do it through the Mind Body app, so I made sure to go in at least 20 minutes early to get situated. Drop-in price and towel/mat rentals were pretty standard. Wow, the studio was way bigger than I expected. There were two yoga rooms (A and B). I believe other classes were offered in addition to yoga, such as mat pilates. I took a hot Vinyasa class in room A, which was massive. Plenty of space to accommodate lots of students and not feel like you're packed in like sardines. It was dimly lit with ambient lighting, and the surround sound and acoustics in the room were great. Loved the tall ceilings as it made the room feel so expansive. I took the 6am Wednesday hot Vinyasa class with Joe. Awesome instructor! Really appreciated his words of mindfulness and being in Stillness to start my day off right. I also thought his flow was beautiful. He allowed us to deepen out practice by challenging ourselves with different types of modifications. read more

I visited this studio using the Travel Pass as I am just visiting Seattle for work this week. I attended two classes and chose 3 stars for the instructors only. Both led an energetic and challenging class which I enjoyed. I would caution if you are a beginner it is a fast paced flow with little direction and no hands on adjustments offered. Only 3 stars because the place is so dirty! The room and mats smell so bad. It hits you as soon as you enter the room. I noticed a previous review mentioned this but said "get over it, that's what you get with hot yoga" But that just isn't true! My home studio in San Diego meticulously cleans between every class and pumps essential oils through the filtration system to provide a lovely steamy experience. I almost gagged at one point because the smell was so bad. I thought for a second it was my neighbor, then thought (horrified) no it's me, then realized it was my disgusting loaner mat. I noticed signs throughout the studio promoting free classes if you volunteer your time to clean. On one hand this is an awesome way to make yoga more accessible to everyone which I LOVE but if management is relying on this in lieu of professional cleaners it has caught up with them big time. read more

This was my first time ever taking yoga. I decided to take the hot yoga session at 0600. It was definitely a game changer for me! I'm hook and will be back for more! The yoga studio is spacious, locker room is upstairs and has enough storage. The instructor was very knowledgeable and the movements was very fluid and smooth. Not as difficult as I thought it would be for a first timer. Mat rental is $5, towel is $2 to keep in mind if you don't bring your own. Only con is you can't exit out the front like where you entered from, but you have to exit from the coffee shop. But I will be back for more classes. read more

I love that they have community classes here every Saturday and Sunday starting at 2PM. You'll have to bear with the teachers since they are in the midst of perfecting their yoga practice and there is a great distinction between yoga teachers who are not as seasoned compared to those who are (ie: BeLuminous Yoga where I feel that I honed my yoga skills the most). This yoga studio is much hotter than any other ones I've been, but that's why I like it because I REALLY sweat in this class. read more

Urban Yoga spa mixes together fitness and wellness into one beautiful space. When I first started it was just the yoga studios with a small offering of spa deals. Now they have expanded their space to include a coffee shop, cute yoga retail, and a full list of spa treatments. They run some great sales and special deals as well. If hot yoga isn't your thing they offer non-heated classes. If you like hot-yoga, make sure you really like HOT yoga. I find this studio to feel hotter than the others (100-105) and with large classes the room can heat up event hotter from all the body heat. I also find the entire space very hot (even outside the class space). I often find myself sweating in the locker room as I am changing into my workout clothes for class. Feels great in the winter when it is cold outside, but wasn't as fun in the summer. They do offer classes on Class-Pass (where I originally found the studio) but I enjoyed the space so much I have purchased some of their other class packages and deals to continue to visit. You are allowed to leave your mat in the locker room which saves you the hassle of dragging it with you to class. A tip: If you are in their large studio (A) place your mat on the side of the room with the higher ceiling. Half of the room has a lower ceiling which, for me, felt even warmer with the trapped air in the small space. I also find many people in my classes taking breaks (as you should) during the hot yoga class. Just listen to your body and rest as needed. read more

Still a great place for hot yoga. I have not been here in a while, since the expansion. There's a great merch area of clothing and a cafe/juice bar. I came here for lunch time practice and the instructor was a wonderful guide. Of course I don't remember her name. One thing I must remark is that studio smelled clean. Steamy, sweaty places like this are more often than not odiferous and it made coming here extra centering. When I left, people who I believe to be random, meaning not employees, asked how my class went. Really friendly energy here. read more

I got a yelp account just to write this review after seeing some of what's online. For me, that indicates how strongly I feel about this place! I came by on Thanksgiving to try it out with a friend and left inspired and happy. It's tough to find actually hot yoga classes in Seattle. To those that complain about the heat: get over it. You rock Morgan! Can't wait to check out other classes this week. read more

When I first started 3 months ago, we still were able to utilize big room Studio A, but now, for the cost saving, we are placed in smaller studio (studio B) even if it gets over packed. I dont mind packed, but I do mind if I cannot do the side twist position or that the room is so packed, when you stretch, your touching someone's foot. Other yogas in NYC would just have limitation of numbers of people in the room, as the building guidance shows how many occupants maximum.... Also, HP Yoga is just getting more advanced. I think if one third of the room is sitting out after 20 minutes, maybe one ought to think to slow down a bit. It definitely is not for the peace sake, but still, if I wanted to go to advanced, I would go to regular yoga where they separate the level. I just signed up for automatic monthly renewal for 6 months, but I think I will look else to see whats out there after this. It is definitely a workout place, not for the peace of mind. read more

Tammy, who takes care of nails and waxing for me here at Urban is wonderful. The pedicures make my feet feel so pampered. She is very thorough in the care of my hands and feet, and the spa massage is wonderful. The staff are always gracious and welcoming. I've been receiving massages, waxing and nail treatments here for 3 years and wouldn't go anywhere else. Yoga classes are also delightful and they have something for everyone. read more

My favorite hot yoga place in Seattle, and I have tried 5-6 other studios that did not even come close. This place makes me want to yoga. The space is always clean, classes are generally not overcrowded and check-in staff is always helpful (except for one guy - who pressed on to make me buy some weird tasting GF bars, but I have not seen him recently). read more

Urban Yoga Spa - Yoga Near Me - Seattle, Washington

This is the only place I go in Seattle for pedicures and waxing. Tammy is my favorite therapist, she is so sweet and kind and her work is absolutely meticulous! The spa is in a beautifully renovated old building with big, arched windows. They have nice massage chairs for the pedicures and the space is clean, bright and surprisingly quiet and peaceful for being in a busy downtown location. This is also my favorite spot for hot yoga because the floors are slightly padded. I've done many classes with just my travel yoga mat and have been entirely comfortable when kneeling. I love that they have 6am and 7:30am weekday classes as well! read more

I took class almost every evening at this yoga studio around 2013 and 2014. Then I found out one of their instructors Cassandra Mitchell is uncertified. She attended teacher training in Jan. 2016 before she taught class around 2013 and 2014. Don't let an uncertified instructor teach you yoga. It's very dangerous, physically and mentally. read more

Urban Yoga Spa - They hired an uncertified instructor, Cassandra Mitchell attended teacher training in 2016 before she taught around 2011-2015! - Yoga Near Me - Seattle, Washington

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I was so excited to find this place. I was in Seattle for one week for work. This $49 travelers deal was perfect! I went every morning! It was a short 10 minute walk from my hotel, Mats and towels were included in the price. The instructors were great, the classes were hot and awesome. I'd sign up for this deal every time I was in Seattle! Thanks so much UYS. You made my week in Seattle that much better! read more

Best deal for travelers in the whole country. I was in Seattle for a week staying at the Westin. Had a 3 minute walk to this studio, where for $50 was able to practice as often as I wanted and given a mat and towel for each practice. This is unbelievably wonderful for those of us who travel often and face the challenge of bringing/paying for your practice on the road. To boot, the yoga is great. I had four different teachers, each of whom led an awesome 60 minute vinyasa in a luxuriously heated studio. fwiw: It's worth buying a cheap lock at the ACE hardware across the street if you're going to store valuables in a changing room locker during class. read more

The one and only place in Seattle I go for yoga. I love hot yoga classes and minimalist, yet modern design of the studio. Instructors are highly knowledgeable and attentive if you desire assistance. The dressing room/ showers are super nice, clean and spacious. Pro tip: grab some cold beverages before the class and enjoy the coffee shop attached to the studio after the class. read more

Great location, and it's not your typical yoga studio (at least not like the ones I've been to). There are 2 yoga rooms inside, locker rooms and a shower. The yoga room is spacious so you don't have to worry about invading your neighbor's personal space..... however, the actual class is not for me. I. could. not. breathe. It's like doing yoga in a sauna. I know other people would appreciate this because they want to sweat, and I do to, in fact I like that I was drenched, but I could not move through the poses smoothly. It was too hot and J had to catch my breath. If this works for you then maybe give it a shot. Otherwise... probably not the studio for you read more

A nice hot yoga find downtown while on business. A week long of yoga for $49 including mat and towel is a steal. The only downside is the smell but then again that's hot yoga! Morgan and Reggie have great classes. Lots of options and I'd return for sure! read more

Sweaty hot yoga was just what I needed after a long day of traveling the day before! Beautiful studio and excellent class. I felt revived and invigorated for the rest of the afternoon! read more

You get onto your bus and you see one of "those people". You know what I mean -- there is this girl in loose pajama bottoms and a tank top, even though the weather is 40 degrees and raining outside. Her face is flush, her hair a mess, eyes are sort of glazed over and she is even a bit smelly. A "bus person" as I sometimes jokingly refer to these types as. But, um... wait. That's me -- stretched out, exhausted, and still sweaty after a round of hot yoga at Urban Yoga Spa. What was that about books and covers again? Speaking of judging based off looks -- one might be a little intimidated when first stepping into this Yoga studio. Clean modern lines, electronic check-in devices, spa services, and a big ol' front desk watching over everything before you go back to the lockers. Give it a little more time and you will find the employees are super nice, the lockers are FREE and your time here will be well spent. A hot and grotesquely sweaty time, but well spent non the less. All the instructors are lovely, know what they are doing, are happy to answer questions and gently help you re-adjust a positon as needed, as well as being encouraging in a class customized practice. Im more of a Hatha fan myself, but I love the Power Vinyasa Basics classes they offer here. While im not 100% sold on the ideas of yoga removing toxins or bringing me to new spiritual levels -- I appreciate the focused work out I receive and the jello pudding feeling my muscles end up with after a round here. I've been coming here fairly regularly on a 2 month unlimited pass, and I have to say Im sad this original deal I purchased (only $90!) is only valid for new members. Regular prices have me waffling and wondering what I will do at the end of the month once it expires, but I do like it here so much and will figure out the best option for me to keep coming back. read more

Can it really have been eight months since my last review? I suppose so....Eight months of fantastic classes, of meeting friendly new yogis, of being welcomed at the counter by name, of persuading friend after friend to visit, of aching muscles and sweat and laughter, of the serious and gratifying work of reshaping and constantly challenging my body. Wow. Bring it on.... read more

Hot yoga saved my life. Ok no... not really but it did whip my ass into shape. Keep in mind I'm the type that would rather hike and kayak than run laps and pump iron. I also consider shopping a sport and anyone who disagrees should come with me on a 6-hour spree. Yoga is that happy medium between fun and intense. One 60-90 minute Vinyasa Flow class at Urban is like 5 workouts in 1: - Cardio to burn those calories - Full body emphasis to tone those muscles - Stretching to keep you limber - Core work to flatten those abs - Moments of silent meditation to keep you sane in this insane world If you're thinking about trying hot yoga, do it! And if you ever meet me in person, ask nicely and I just might show you my hot yoga guns and buns. read more

Inelegantly and without my consent, time passed. -Miranda July- time is cruel. i woke up one day recently and realized i no longer possess the body of a 21 year old. for 27 years, i had avoided going to the gym but managed to stay fit by shopping (cardio), dancing (cardio) and enjoying a healthy dose of...ahem, certain nocturnal activities (cardio, strengthening, toning, stretching). yoga always creeped me out for the hippy-dippyness - the namastes, the oms, the let's send happy thoughts out into the universe. but hot yoga immediately appealed to me. i'm Korean, we love hot things. we've combined saunas with barbeque for chrissake. http://saunascape.com/2009/04/sauna-and-barbeque/ i went to one class at Urban and i was hooked. i drank the kool-aid, people. i decided to go with Hour of Power for my first class. it's a shorter version of their Power Vinyasa class. first of all, let me say the staff is delightful. i was waiting for my friend to find a parking space and one of the front desk staff reserved spots in the classroom for both of us! unfortunately, she reserved two spots in the front row. i almost shat my pants. my first time and i'm right up front. *shit shit shit. too late. i already paid* my yoga mat made a loud squeaky noise while unrolling because it was brand spanking new. humiliating. *calm down. ommmmmm* i laid my towel on my mat and got started. *downward wha?* once i calmed down a little and realized no one gave a rat's ass what the new class idiot was doing, i got really into it and thoroughly enjoyed myself. my instructor, Shaun, did not scold me for being late nor did he single me out when i did something wrong. after class, i floated outside, lit up a cigarette and was consumed with happy thoughts - you know, raindrops on roses, whiskers on kittens, that kind of stuff. SOME THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND -they have a special introductory deal. $25 for one week of unlimited classes. -they will validate parking in the Macy's lot for a reduced price of $3. -they have mats for rent. (eww) -bring a towel for your mat. and a towel to wipe your sweat. -in the middle of a downward-facing dog, i noticed a puddle of my neighbor's sweat on my mat. i only freaked out on the inside. ommmm -they burn incense in the hallway. incense makes me want to puke. -there wasn't much explanation of poses. i had to keep sneaking peeks at other people or just make up my own moves. -do not wear short shorts. some of the moves were very, shall we say, exposing. thank god a look in the mirror at my pasty gray legs helped me make a last minute decision to change into leggings. otherwise, i would have given everyone a free show - for 5, breathe in, 4, breathe out, 3, feel your center, 2, almost there, 1. -breathe. apparently, i've been doing it wrong. -they sell coconut water. it helps you rehydrate quickly. in case y'all think i'm going to be all zen now and abandon my old jaded neurotic OCD ways, namaste....bitches! read more

Though hardly an expert, I've been doing yoga for about 10 years, so I am relatively proficient in my practice. I have found that there are those who are very protective of the true yoga practice, with the emphasis on a complete mind-body-soul connection. If you are one of those people, Urban Yoga Spa is not the studio for you. If you enjoy the more athletic aspects of yoga, this studio's CrossFit approach should be more suited to your style. Pose, pose, pose and breathe is the mantra here. No rhyme or reason is really given to why you are doing poses, and the transition of flows may feel rushed or awkward, but in the world of yoga, (regardless of the "type" you practice) no two studios or instructors will ever give you the same experience. So whatever class you take, go in with an open mind and willingness to take some risks. That last comment is directed to the more seasoned yogis. For beginners or those whose bodies aren't quite that limber, this can potentially be very dangerous for you and I would encourage you go elsewhere. The unfortunate part of this kind of studio is that there is no guidance on placement or easing in and out of the more difficult poses. It's like taking someone who just learned how to ride a bike, freeride mountain biking - Urban Yoga Spa is an aggressive obstacle course. To mitigate this, the studio should provide "tiered" classes based on difficulty, rather than offering all-level classes. If you are dead set on trying this (understandably, as the deals are attractive), speak with the instructor before class, ask questions, and make it clear you want to be watched and adjusted. Otherwise you will be overlooked and could very well end up seriously injuring yourself. Note - the evening classes pack you in like sardines but aternoon classes are less crowded. read more

It doesn't stink! Haha. This was a big fear of mine. As for the heat, I LOVE it but it also depends on where you're at. If you're in a corner, you'll get two heaters pointed at you so staying mid-room is best unless you like that sort of heat or are trying to sweat out that hooch from last night. Diane is probably my favorite instructor but they are all very unique and talented (and patient!). Other services: Meagan is awesome for massages! The classes are great for all levels, except maybe Patrick's classes. The front desk staff(s) are always friendly. The only downside is the price and since I prefer the hour hot hatha, there is only one class on Wednesday. read more

If you know anything about yoga, don't go here. If you are looking to be relaxed, inspired and challenged, do not go here. I was attracted to this place based on its high star rating. Here is what I found: - The rental mats are old, slippery and my Mom's smelled. - The rental towels are small so they won't save you from the mat. - The teacher opened the class by talking about the current deals - students were allowed late in the class, causing everyone to stop what they were doing - students talked throughout class - the teacher seemed to have no rhyme or reason for the flow of class and didn't give good cues. - We started the class with crunches. Crunches! It's meant to be yoga not aerobics. - There are many heaters which means if you have a full class you'll likely be forced come in uncomfortably close contact with them. For me,every time I raised my arms I got a nice burning sensation. I've practiced for 7 years in New York, New Jersey, Kentucky and Ohio. While I believe the teacher meant well, this was the worst class experience I've had to date. read more

I have been to eight different studios in Seattle, and this was by far my least favorite. I decided to try it out because of a really good Groupon deal (10 classes for $40, I think). I have been practicing hot power vinyasa for 6 years, so I thought the studio would be a good fit. Unfortunately, my first class was such a bad experience, but I couldn't even bring myself to go back for another. My first thought was that the room's smell was overpowering - like a combination of vinegar or bleach and sweat. I've been to many hot yoga classes, and none have smelled that badly. The teacher's sequence was uninspired and lacked creativity. Breath was not integrated into the practice. The practice itself was relatively beginner, but the level of heat gives the illusion that the workout is better than it actually is. The teacher did not give many assists or pointers. That could be because of the size of the class, which was enormous. The room was really unevenly heated. I was too close to one of the heaters and it was burning my arms every time I lifted them. As we were so tightly packed in the room, there was nowhere else for me to move. The class prices listed on their website are very expensive for what you get. This class is definitely not worth $20 for a drop in class. If you are an avid yogi with the relatively advanced practice, don't bother coming here. read more

The first things you'll notice are the tall white walls & floors welcoming you into the reception area. The look is pure and uncluttered, symbolic of a yogi's state of mind. Ushering you into the practice room is a quote placed on the wall in large black letters saying, "The best way to predict your future... is to create it." And then you enter the room itself. It is quite large, lit with candles and incense. Immaculate would seem an understatement. The bottom of my mat (dirtied from another gym) actually looked cleaner after the class, and I felt rather purified myself. During my free trial class our instructor, Cassandra, moved us through our poses with inspirational vigor. "Fall down 99 times and get up 100. It's as easy as that." and "Your expression should be that of looking at someone you love... and let that someone be you." The music seemed to be choreographed to follow our movements and postures. Alternating between meditative trance and contemporary, it started out slow and strong, increasing in tempo along with our heart rates and swelling as we reached the crescendo of our own strength. "It's okay to make friends with pain" Cassandra's voice called out soothingly, compelling us to push through to the other side. It is spiritual, but the essence of the yogini is not all-pervasive during the practice. If Yogi is the heavenly idea of creating harmony between opposites, I just have to say its hella hard work here on earth. But in the end, it's exhilarating, purifying and will make you hot. In every sense of the word. read more

I'm not a fan of waking up early. On a Saturday. To drive into Downtown. Find parking. And sweat my ass off. This wasn't Bikram Yoga but it was hot, humid and pretty intense. And having three attractive Yelpers and a room of sweaty half-naked women (and men) makes the pleasure bearable. The studio is clean, modern and chic for something that is normally hippie-dippy. If I hadn't been late for the class I would've been intimidated by the frontdesk and the array of services. Yes, they offer the typical spa amenities like manicures, pedicures, etc. Imagine getting a pedi while you're in downward dog... I'm a fan but unfortunately traveling into the Downtown corridor is a huge deterrent. Jo's instruction was excellent, a blend of athleticism and spirituality of yoga. I've overheard that she went easy the day I went and my glowing review, obviously, reflects this -- as well as my ability to move and write this review the next day. Here's a tip if you go, get to class early and stake our your spot. Being against the back wall is the hottest as there are three heaters pointed at you instead of two. read more

The waiting is over, and it was worth the wait -- Urban Yoga Spa is open! UYS has two studios with a variety of 60 and 90 minute vinyasa and hot hatha classes at very convenient times. The Hot Hatha class typically is in the smaller studio. It has a mirrored wall, and wow, the radiant heat system works REALLY well. The radiant heaters simulate being in the sunshine. Bodies heat up quite efficiently. You are guaranteed to break a sweat just standing still in that room... The Vinyasa flow classes are scheduled in the larger studio, which is brighter and has a higher ceiling. The heaters are just as potent, but with the higher ceiling the feeling of the room is airier, which is great for a flow class where you work up your own sweat by breathing and moving. Once you've worked up a good sweat, you can wash it all away in the comfortable locker room. Obviously I can't speak for the men's locker room, but I can say the women's room is well arranged, has lovely rainfall shower heads, Dove hair and bath products, and hair dryers. Towel rental is $2. Locks are provided free of charge so you can store your belongings worry-free. (Yes, we trust our fellow yogis, but unfortunately, sometimes things have a way of leaving the studio...) UYS has an arrangement with the Macy's parking garage on 3rd and Stewart. Make sure to get your validation card from the front desk so that you'll only be charged $3. Street parking is free on Sundays - even more incentive to get your yoga on and detoxify from the previous evening. UYS is offering special 25% off during the month of February, which is a good way to check out the studios and instructors for yourself. UYS Is also offering RAW organic foods in partnership with Chef Adam Lewis and House of the Sun. Order your lunch by 2pm and pick it up the following day after your yoga practice. Last weekend I had a fruit/nut parfait with macadamia nuts and coconut butter that was delicious and filling. It was just the right meal after a vigorous practice. The UYS instructors are awesome, studio is lovely and the owners are there greeting everyone and asking for feedback. UYS is a welcome addition to the yoga community. Look for the spa to open in early March. read more

Finally! Hot yoga in downtown Seattle! I took a class in studio B, the downstairs space. The studio is calm and clean, with high ceilings. The instructor for my Hour of Power vinyasa yoga class was exactly what you'd want in a yoga instructor, her soothing voice was relaxing, her comments encouraging, but she also gently coaxed the class into pushing themselves further and harder. The room was warm enough to have us sweating hard, though I would have enjoyed a slightly higher temperature (I'd give it five stars if it was just a few degrees warmer). With its airy atmosphere, cleanliness and professional staff, Urban Yoga Spa feels appropriately like a spa, a far more enjoyable experience than the Sweatbox on Capitol Hill, which sounds like it smells. I expect to sweat at hot yoga, I expect to smell other people's sweat, but I don't want to feel like I'm inhaling the stench of years of compounded sweat and body odor before every om. Rates are pretty typical at $18 for a drop-in. Packages are the way to go, the 10-class option brings the cost down to $12 a class. If you're really into hot yoga, the February special for the annual unlimited package is $995, which, if you go enough, could bring the cost down considerably. They also offer two classes each week for a suggested donation of $10, a good option if you are just looking to try this out. Be sure to bring a towel and water. Mat rental is available for $2. read more

I'm a sweater. Not the kind your grandma makes for birthdays, but the kind that pours liquid out of my head even when I'm doing practically nothing. So I thought that hot yoga would be miserable, since the point is to MAKE you sweat MORE. But after going for a week, I have to say I love it. The staff and clientele are shockingly sweet and friendly, even at ungodly early morning hours. Everyone greets each other, chats, even if we've never met. The rooms are hot-hot-hot, but the floors are non-porous and scrubbed down so there is no stale sweat funk. I'm a fan of the hatha classes that focus on stretching and light balancing. The power vinyasa was a little too intense for me, as I was having a hard time breathing through my nose with sweat pouring down my face. I'll get the strengthening at the room-temperature gym, thankyouverymuch. I've taken classes with 5 different instructors and really enjoyed each one. They describe the poses well, and pace it well with the breathing. And I love the free locks/lockers, waterfall showers, available hair dryers. I have time to cool down, clean up, and grab a coffee in the morning, without paying for on-street parking! It takes a lot to get me out of bed at 5:30am, but it's worth it for the experience here. Overall, it's such a nice way to start the day that I took advantage of the two months unlimited for $99. They also let you try the week unlimited for $25 and sign up for the two months after, if you like it. Just get there early and lay your mat down; classes can get pretty packed! Namaste... read more