Best Yoga Studios In Austin

Yoga found me in 2009. For nearly three months, my friend Victoria begged me to join her for yoga– I finally and reluctantly agreed. Knowing nothing about yoga, I assumed we would stretch a little, take a bunch of deep breaths and chant “ohmmmmmm”. I still remember that class, with Lilyana at Black Swan Yoga 6th Street on a Tuesday in April at 7pm. What I didn’t expect was to get such an intense workout that I was sore for the next four days (and I was fit– I ran 15 miles a week and lifted weights on my days off!). Beyond the workout, I felt much more calm and at ease.

The practice was about so much more than poses and breath, it was an all-around transformative experience. It was a mind check for me. It made me question a million different things. And although I’d only had a taste, I was hooked. At that point, I began practicing upwards of 3 times a week and aside from short breaks due to unassociated injuries, I’ve never stopped. Eventually in 2015, I went through yoga teacher training and became a certified yoga teacher. Yoga is a huge part of my life. It has shaped who I am today and how I navigate life.

I’ve rounded up my favorite studios and put together a list for you. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned practicioner, each studio has something for everyone. Find one you love, work your way into the culture and allow yourself to be transformed! 

Wild Heart Yoga- Westlake

Beyond just a studio, this place fosters a true yoga community. There is a beautiful studio, outdoor covered deck (where they host some pretty kick-a** events) and one my favorite little boutiques in Austin. They even have live music classes! This studio was built on love and you can feel it. 

Wild Heart Yoga

Practice Yoga Austin- Downtown Eastside

This studio holds a special place in my heart because it’s where I did my yoga teacher training. I was drawn to this studio because of the authentic yogi, hippie vibe–sound machines running, the smell of palo santo and essential oils, friendly teachers and a dimly lit cozy studio space.

Practice Yoga Austin

Black Swan Yoga- Downtown, North, South

As I mentioned above, this is the studio where I fell in love with yoga. For nearly 5 years, I never stepped foot into another space. Black Swan has evolved over the years, but one thing hasn’t changed– when I walk in, it still feels like home. I also love that they host a ton of workshops on weekends. So, if there is something particular you are interested in learning or building on, these are a great opportunity to do so. 

Black Swan Yoga

Wanderlust- Downtown and Domain

This studio is so WOW. To me, it was the first of it’s kind in Austin– a mega-studio. At their original location downtown, they’ve got two large rooms for practice (plus an outdoor space), an awesome boutique with all the best yoga gear and mats, and even a Blenders and Bowls cafe. Their new Domain location offers adult and kids classes and you can replenish with something fresh from Southern Pressed Juicery when class is over. Beyond yoga, they offer YoStrong classes (yoga with weights). And they absolutely have some of the most experienced instructors in town. 

Wanderlust

The Little Yoga House- Clarksville and Northwest

If the yogi way of life is something you want for your kids, this is the best place in Austin. They offer Peace School (preschool yoga style), prenatal yoga, mommy & me classes, kids and adult aerial yoga classes and even have a great children’s boutique. And they host birthday parties! Your kids will love it here. 

The Little Yoga House

The Goal of Yoga (No, it’s not the handstand). by Rachel Brathen

The yoga pose is not the goal.

Becoming flexible is not the goal. Standing on your hands is not the goal.

The goal is to create space where you were once stuck. To unveil the layers of protection you’ve built around your heart. To appreciate your body and become aware of the mind and the noise it creates. To make peace with who you are.

The goal is to love, well… You.

Come to your yoga mat to feel; not to accomplish.

Photo by Neil Gandhi

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