I joined Pauline’s Beginners’ class as a complete newcomer to yoga, and I brought Myra along with me—she was looking for a refresher after being away from practice for quite some time. It turned out to be a wonderful choice for both of us.
The class moves at a dynamic pace, which at times felt a little fast for me since my body has grown stiff from lack of natural exercise. Just as I would begin to feel settled in a posture, we were already moving to the next one. That said, I realize I’m a slow learner in these things, and the challenge is part of what makes the practice effective. After only a short time, I could feel it working—my body loosening, tension releasing, and I even noticed that my left side is more flexible than my right, something I had never realized before.
Pauline’s teaching style is clear, encouraging, and infused with an upbeat energy that keeps the class positive and engaging. She brings both charm and precision to her instruction, making it approachable for beginners while still engaging for those returning to practice. The energy in the space itself is also highly positive, which makes showing up each week a pleasure.
Overall, this class is excellent for anyone ready to commit to a one-hour practice each week. If you’re brand-new, eager to learn, or looking to return to Iyengar yoga after a long break, I’d recommend it wholeheartedly.
Experienced my first Alcove Yoga class this evening and it exceeded my expectations! I haven’t stepped into a yoga studio in years, so was feeling a little nervous. Pauline was inviting, clear with her instructions, attentive, and all around an amazing teacher. The class was extremely welcoming, and I cannot wait for my next class!
I definitely enjoyed the experience! It's a type of yoga class where you get a workout and learn simultaneously. The opening incantation felt authentic, as I am looking for a more authentic yoga experience. I realized after the class that I've never been in an all-female yoga class focused on women before. It really does give a different vibe afterward, so I also loved that. I was very sore for the next few days lol. I think Iyenger is good for me because I get scared of inversions, and the technique can slowly help me perfect my postures. So I will definitely be back after the summer when the studio re-opens. Thank you so much for my complimentary intro class!
Phenomenal intimate studio. Incredible teacher. Ignite session was informative, therapeutic, challenging and restorative all at once!
Katie,
Glad you liked the session and felt the immediate benefits of Iyengar Yoga. Thanks for your review.
I'm beginning my third year of study with Pauline, chiefly attending the Saturday morning Ignite 50+ class due to both my age and my too long history of orthopedic injuries. I started taking vinyasa flow and kundalini yoga classes over 20 years ago. Pauline's classes are completely different and perfect for me. She is scrupulous at watching her students to ensure that poses are being done properly to avoid injury, and she somehow manages to recall the frailties of each student's body to provide them with appropriate modifications and/or props when needed. I truly appreciate her diligence and good humor, and I leave each class walking taller and feeling strong!
Thank you, Kay Lynn! It's great to have you in class. We do offer quicker moving classes for the young people. But as you pointed out, age can bring challenges with past injuries and current frailties. That is one reason to have a beginner's class person over 50. Also, because we take only 10 students in any class, we are able to really see that everyone is practicing properly for their current condition and suggest modifications for each when needed.
Was my first lesson, Pauline was very good showing the positions herself and correcting all the way to ensure the best results
Recommended…will be back
Thank you for coming, Alejandro and for the kind words!
Prenatal yoga is fantastic! Pauline is very attentive and intentional with her movements. At the start of each class we go around in a circle and say our symptoms - she uses the practice to relieve each persons pain points while still maintaining a full body stretch for the class. I leave each class feeling stronger and free of tension in my muscles. Highly recommend.
Thank you, Zahabia! So glad to have you in class.
Pauline is an excellent teacher! I love how I feel after class. I was introduced to Alcove Yoga when I was pregnant with my second child. I did prenatal classes throughout my pregnancy and experienced a major difference in how I felt and carried the pregnancy. With my first child, I struggled with back pain. My second pregnancy went a lot smoother and my back pain was no more! My labor went shockingly smooth and I felt strong before and after. I am now doing her women’s classes and have been loving the increased energy, improved sleep, and strength I have been gaining so far. Highly recommend!
so glad to have you back in class, Lauren! thank you!
Real Yoga
Thanks, Pooja!
Pauline is an excellent teacher. This form of Yoga is MUCH better than the 'flow' yoga because you actually HOLD poses and build strength along with getting in excellent stretches. The classes are small so she is able to individualize instruction so everyone gets the maximum benefit. Highly recommend!
Thank you Lamar! So true. We do hold the poses and build intelligence and stamina. Thanks for being a great student!
Thanks Corey! I'm so glad you came to Alcove Yoga!