Yoga is one of the best forms of exercise for your physical and mental health. It allows you to tune in, chill out and shape up - all at the same time! Tonight’s guide will take you through Moscow’s yoga studios.

­Federation of Yoga

Federation of Yoga is widely-known even among Muscovites who have never given a thought to spiritual perfection. The chain has 6 centers offering various styles, from classic “hatha” and “kundalini” yoga to less mainstream types. Prices start at 400 rubles per lesson.

The center is also known for various events aimed at making yoga more popular. This summer their coaches have been holding free classes at Park Kultury Metro station every Sunday morning.

Narayana

The Narayana center offers another option for fans of outdoor sports. It is located in the Red October complex and holds open-air classes on the terrace of Strelka Bar twice a week during summer months.

But as autumn settles in, you might be looking for a warmer place to practise. So here is another option.

Ananda

Ananda means absolute happiness in Sanskrit. And you might just find it in this cozy studio on Ostozhenka Street. This is one of the few places in Moscow where yoga is taught by instructors from India.

The experienced yoga masters here practice a yoga style that incorporates elements of several classic approaches with emphasis on breathing and stretching. Their classes are held in English and last 60 minutes.

If you are looking for a more personal touch, you can practice individually with a teacher or in a group of no more than 10 people.

Bikram

If you want your yoga experience to be even more authentic, visit Moscow’s only “Bikram” yoga studio near Kitay Gorod Metro station. Their clients can expect a very warm welcome…literally!

“Bikram” – or ‘hot’ – yoga was invented in the ‘70s in the US and has gained quite a following there. It consists of a sequence of postures practiced in a room heated to 40 degrees.  

The idea is to stretch warmed up muscles and drive toxins out with sweat. But keep in mind that the heat can make this dangerous if you have a heart condition, so consult your doctor beforehand.

The studio’s owner received his certificate from the top guru himself and now invites other Bikram coaches from the US on a regular basis.

“Bikram is very popular now because it is accessible. It is something that is for people who come into the room because it is a beginner’s class. Except for the heat it is not a very difficult set of postures to remember. And the great part is that you could be practicing next to someone who has been practicing for 10 years or a teacher, you get that energy and start to pick it up. That is why people get hooked very quickly,” says Bruce Kessler, from Bikram Yoga Studio in New York.

Prana

“Prana” yoga is where you can try almost all existing yoga styles under one roof, from “Aiengara” to “Himalayan”. The spacious center near Barrikadnaya Metro includes five exercise halls, a vegetarian bar and even a painting-studio.

They offer an introductory course for various yoga styles where you can learn the terminology, meditation and breathing techniques. Prenatal yoga classes will help mums-to-be to adjust to the physical demands of pregnancy and meet others in the same boat.
Hopefully, these tips will help you shake off that city stress and feel like a whole new person.