Jivamukti Yoga School is one of the largest and oldest yoga studios in the United States. This 12,000 square foot facility is the birthplace of Jivamukti Yoga – a practice that incorporates five tenets: scripture, devotion, kindness, music, and meditation. Bring your practice into the studio’s spacious classrooms, and enjoy the Zen vibe that comes from stained glass paneling and high ceilings. After you om, stay awhile for delicious and healthy eats in the Jivamuktea Café.

Neighborhoods: Union Square

Classes Offered: Jivamukti Basic, Open and Spiritual Warrior, Restorative, Meditation, Pranayama, Mysore Ashtanga

Why We Love It: On top of the educated staff and outstanding classes, Jivamukti Yoga School is committed to the environment. Instead of air conditioning, a special ventilation system pulls the sweat out of the practice rooms and circulates in fresh air. Inside, recycled furniture, non-toxic building materials, water-saving fixtures, and eco-friendly materials are used to further the eco-friendly mission. The padding under the bamboo flooring in the Asana rooms is even made of recycled car tires!

Why It's So Effective: Yoga works out the body and calms the mind. Regular practice will improve flexibility, balance, posture, breath control, blood flow, bone health, muscle tone, and mental focus. Some people even find that yoga helps with back pain and sleeping issues. This low-impact exercise lends itself to lifelong practice!

Know Before You Go: Arrive on time to class! This will not only ensure you keep your reserved spot, but will also prevent you from disturbing other yogis. Either bring your own yoga mat, or rent one at the studio for $2. Ashtanga classes are only open to students with an established practice – consult with the studio before signing up for this class.

Don't Miss: Dive deeper into an area of your practice at one of the studio’s special events or seminars. The seminars cover a range of topics – including creativity, nutrition, healing, and inversions.

Added Bonus: More than just nutrition bars and juice, the café at Jivamukti (Jivamuktea Café) offers a full menu of 100 percent vegan food. Whether you’re stopping by for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or a delicious dessert (you worked out: you deserve it!), the café is a lovely place to congregate after class.