What makes a good Yoga and Pilates studio?

6 things to look for when picking a place to practice - a guide to Yoga and Pilates in Byron Bay.

studios around and definitely no one-size-fits-all space, but there are some essentials to look out for when choosing your next Yoga and Pilates home.

Talented teachers If you’re a seasoned yoga student you’ll know that the teachers really make the studio. They are the foundation of the community and can make or break your experience as a practitioner. When you’re choosing your Yoga and Pilates studio, look for teachers who are passionate and know how to hold space. Just because someone has ten years’ experience, knows how to synchronise their moves perfectly to the most epic playlist or is famous on Insta, doesn’t mean they will help you evolve in your own practice. Look for teachers that are honest, authentic and walk their talk – they will guide you to a deeper understanding of your body and mind. Sometimes checking out a teacher’s online profile will give you a sense of who they are, but attending a class is often the best way to suss our their vibe, man.

A smorgasbord of styles When you’re thinking of becoming a member of a Yoga and Pilates studio, you want there to be a variety of styles on offer. You need some Yin to balance your Yang, flexibility to balance your strength, and a space that allows you to explore all facets of your ever-evolving self. Sometimes, in order to grow, we need to be challenged. And sometimes, we just need a soothing voice and a good old stretch. Look for a holistic wellness centre that offers a diverse range of healing services – from Yin Yoga to Reformer Pilates and maybe even remedial massage (just cause, you know, balance).

Awesome ambience How do you want to feel when you walk into your Yoga and Pilates studio? Pick a place that invites you to feel that way. It doesn’t have to have all the bells and whistles, but you’ll want a space that feels clean, calm, intentional and inviting. In Byron Bay, you’ll find classes being taught in all sorts of spaces – from community halls to yurts. It’s all perfect and worth a try to find your unique happy place! The BodyMindLife studio has been architecturally designed and inspired by the philosophies of sacred geometry – so you can feel the energetic qualities the moment you walk through the door (Is this heaven?!).

Authenticity Authenticity goes a long way when it comes to your experience of Yoga and Pilates. Not only do you want your teachers to feel honest and genuine, but these qualities should be the guiding philosophies of the entire business. Find a studio that is welcoming to new practitioners, and those from all walks of life. If a space feels too exclusive, it can be intimidating, off-putting and give you the opposite of the calm and clarity that drew you there in the first place. Look for a space that offers classes for beginners as well as seasoned yogis, that welcomes you with friendly managers and teachers, and has a goal to give back to the community in some way.

Future-thinking Think sustainable, COVID-friendly, and technologically inspiring. We’re adjusting to a new world, yogis, and you want your Yoga and Pilates community to come along for the ride. Firstly, that requires mindfulness of the environmental impact of the business, and a commitment to sustainability. It also now looks like a big focus on health and hygiene, and the option of online practices when you need to stay home. The best studios keep the health of their community at the forefront of everything they do – from the yoga classes they offer to the space they’re taught in.

Truly transformative There comes a time in your Yoga and Pilates journey when you’re ready to take your practice to the next level. At this time, you’ll want to be part of a community that facilitates further learning and evolution. Look for a studio that supports transformation through courses, teacher trainings and workshops that introduce you to movers and shakers in the industry, and inspire you to be the best version of your beautiful self. Join world class Yoga and Pilates classes today in the new BodyMindLife studio in Byron Bay.