Sacred Ground: Akron, Ohio Yoga Studio Lives Up to Its Name

I am by no means a practiced, learned "Yogi." I have not spent hours per week honing and delving deeper into any pretzel poses. I have, however, been to a few Akron yoga classes in my day, and come to understand the meaning of a "good" yoga studio. Though in many ways finding the right yoga studio has more to do with satisfying your specific needs, I believe that Sacred Ground Yoga is not just perfect for me, but true to the practice.

Many believe that yoga is nothing but a series of stretches and poses, "moves," so to speak. Whereas these are obviously part of the program, Yoga encompasses so much more. I have attended yoga classes that felt more like aerobics classes, lacking the philosophical integrity that Sacred Ground embraces. I will, however, say that it is not so immersed in philosophy and spiritual practice that the mind-body connection is lost. The body, obviously, is the focal point in any meaningful yoga practice. A happy medium is reached gracefully and graciously.

What else sets Sacred Ground apart? The open, warm atmosphere of the studio is absolutely perfect. Every session I walk into the Portage Lakes Studio, to calming music, dimmed lights, and friendly smiles. Tea brews in the corner, and patrons talk quietly while preparing for the session. As I have attended primarily evening sessions, the atmosphere feels a bit busy-fellow students buzzing from the day's activities. By the close of the session, it would appear everyone had woken from a calm sleep (and oftentimes amidst the relaxation of Savasana, they had).

Relaxation is by no means the only focus of the sessions, however. Core strength poses are practiced in due time, at a beginner's pace. I have never been overwhelmed by any stretch or pose presented to me, and find myself able to challenge myself within it, relaxing into it on my terms. Instructors always offer alternative ways to achieve the effects of the pose for those who cannot manage it right away, and assist in positioning and posture when necessary. Though classes may have over twenty students, I have always felt I received enough one-on-one attention to achieve my goals for the session.

I feel one of the best qualities of Sacred Ground is that they attempt to make quality yoga practice accessible. Not only do they offer workshops, clinics, and retreats, but they try to take a holistic approach to yoga practice, and are by far one of the best priced Akron yoga studios-with fantastic student rates (for us starving college kids that struggle to get by). I have never paid more than five dollars for a session, and there is a coupon on the website for a free first class. I would suggest taking advantage of this to understand the benefits for yourself.

There are obviously many Akron yoga studios around, but Sacred Ground Yoga is likely the only I will ever attend while I still live in this fantastic city. I hope you give them a try!
Learn more: www.SacredGroundYoga.com