What do you think of when you hear the word yoga? Is it inner peace perhaps? Good health? Downward facing dog? The truth is that yoga has many faces, its liquid; it is anything you want it to be. It is strength, it is poise, it is peace, it is love, it is calm, and most of all it is a state of being. I am not just one who practices the art of yoga, I am yoga.

Yoga is a place where I can leave my inhibitions at the door, where I can forget the world and just be me, a quiet me, disconnected and yet very much connecting to all that I am and all that I want to be.

Glendale Yoga is close to the 134 freeway onramp at 746 N. Glendale Avenue in the city of yes that’s right you guessed it Glendale. I consider this place to be a small majestic treasure within this cozy city, a serene studio full of peace and calm. Its walls are covered with what I can only guess to be a painting of a lavender cherry blossom tree whose whimsical branches stretch out like an enchanting breeze. Dim lighting, soft meditation music, the after-scent of an aromatherapy candle, and a blue carpeted floor that has never met the sole of a dirty shoe all combine forces to provide the ultimate yoga experience.

For an hour and fifteen minutes I can put my mind to rest, give in to my breath and stretch out my limbs as I play a sort of game of “Simon says” with my instructor. And just when I know I can no longer hold a pose, on cue a soft voice will tell me to release. I’ve had the pleasure of experiencing yoga through the vision of four different instructors with different styles and techniques at Glendale Yoga and they all possess wonderful unique qualities.

There is nothing more soothing than closing out the day with a yoga session with Leah. Her serene voice puts me at ease while her gentle approach makes me feel sheltered and confident in what I do.

Sam is funny, sarcastic and a complete pleasure, he leads the class with subtle jokes wearing his Beatles tribute T-shirt as he guiding his students on a spiritual journey in the yoga practice.

Jennifer has a faster tempo to her class, the music is a dash louder and a smidgen faster, all together she cooks up a recipe of wellness and strength. She is attentive to every single student at all times.

Laura is the owner of this lovely slice of heaven, from her I receive email updates of what’s new and what’s what. She is gentle and very popular and yet still manages to remember all of her students names even with a large volume of pupils.

That’s what I love about this place, its where all the teachers know your name from the first day you have the pleasure of being in their class, they know your strengths and you weaknesses and they are all there to guide you along a beautiful expedition.

If you have never experienced yoga do not fret, Glendale Yoga is full of mats, blankets, straps, blocks and pillows to help you feel at home and well equipped from the moment you walk it. Each class begins with tension carried though the day, and ends with peace, calm and wellness. Namaste.

By: Lucky Clover