5 /5 Olivia Cooke: I started my yoga journey here over a year ago, and its one of the best decisions Ive ever made. At the time, I had no idea how life-changing it would be. I was really quite nervous starting out, as I had no experience and wouldnt have considered myself very coordinated or flexible.
The studio itself feels like a little community. Its not pretentious or about being super fit and trendy. Ive found it to be a space inclusive of all body types, ages, and ability levels.
The space is thoughtfully designed. Pru (the owner – also love that its a female-owned small business!) has put much thought and care into every aspect, from how it operates to how it feels. Its cozy yet light and open, with greenery, clean lines, wooden beams, and skylights. The sound of rain on the roof is delightful. Every yoga prop you could ever need is provided. Soft lighting, gentle music – its all very down-to-earth.
The yoga teachers are excellent. Pru gives them the freedom to teach their own practice and have their own style. They genuinely care, and its lovely getting to know them.
A big shoutout to a few teachers who have really helped me on my yoga journey so far:
- Pru whose classes are very wholistic and tend to have more of a body/mind focus.
- Ben, his classes tend to be quite strong and leave you feeling empowered, but if you are a beginner like I was – don’t worry, he will provide assistance and variations for you.
- Indi has a beautiful speaking voice and I find her cues particularly easy to follow, her practice can be quite playful but also quite thoughtful and introspective.
- Ling’s classes can also be quite strong for vinyasa, but with anything slow, they are very gentle and super relaxing, she is also into more of the spiritual aspects such as tarot cards and chakras (if thats your cup of tea).
In addition to the standard classes, Ive done the Mindful Somatic Yoga Therapy (MSYT). Its excellent. It gave me so many strategies to support my well-being, and its a whole journey in itself. Id say youd want to be ready to do some self-work and introspection, and its not a replacement for therapy. Theres actually no talking at all! Which I love. Its not like a group therapy session or anything like that.
Ive also done cello yoga with Ling multiple times (I cant get enough of it!). Its become a favourite for its deeply restorative and relaxing qualities.
Lastly, The Retreat uses the Momence app, which I love. Its super easy to use and see what classes are on and who the teacher is. Booking a class is simple, and there are no late cancellation fees.
Its been over a year now, and Im in such a better place since I started yoga here. Its become part of my routine, and I feel so much more grounded now. I even do my own yoga at home! It really helps me manage stress at work, I feel much stronger, more flexible, and toned. Whats more, I have much better body awareness and connectedness, and feel much more confident in my body.
I have had previous back and shoulder injuries and have experienced a lot of pain and tension in my body, this has significantly helped. It improved my posture, sleep, and relationships with others as I now have more to give but also better boundaries. And genuinely, I look forward to stepping through that yellow door. Im incredibly grateful to have this place.
Where Locals Work Out: Best [16] Gyms and Fitness Centers in Camberwell, VIC