In recent years, Lakeland’s yoga scene has been heating up. Studios have been catching up from what was once great quality, but limited variety of classes at a small number of studios. Nowadays there’s more than one could fit into a single week. 🙌

Since getting certified in NYC a few years ago, one of my goals for 2018 was to stretch my practice (no pun intended) and take advantage of the new yoga options popping up all over our city. So, I’ve rounded up seven different yoga classes in town, and then broke them down based on your yogi needs.

Let’s get down, dog. ⬇

🔥 For those who like it hot

Hot 60 | Yoga Pointe | 📍 3203 S. Florida Ave. | $12 | schedule your class

Taught in a room which is set to 100-104 degrees, you will be holding postures for several breaths, with pauses between poses. Pro tip: hydrate well before, and bring towels + water to stay cool.

🍻 For those waiting for happy hour

Bend + Beignets | TBA | 📍801 East Main | TBA

Enjoy well-deserved fried beignets + a brew on the lawn afterward.

❤ For those who can’t afford therapy

Restorative | Yoga Pointe | 📍3203 S. Florida Ave. | $12 | schedule your class

This class focuses on passive stretching– looking to release stress + eliminate fatigue. You’ll leave feeling relaxed mentally, physically, and most importantly– emotionally.

👟 For those looking for a high

HITT-Yoga | The Balance Culture | 📍1035 S. Florida Ave., #200 | $12 | schedule your class

Class kicks off with high intensity interval training, then winds down with a soft yoga flow. Savasana never felt so sweet.

🐌 For those seeking the slow life

Zen Yoga | Yoga Pointe | 📍3203 S. Florida Ave. | $12 | schedule your class

A nice ‘n easy starter class for the yogi newbie. Learn proper alignment + breath.

🙃 For those needing a fresh perspective

Aerial Yoga | The Keep Yoga + Circus Arts | 📍112 E. Pine St. | $12 | schedule your class

Try this class where you will hang on and out in soft fabric hammocks for a deep release of chronic tension. Perfect for anyone who occasionally feels like clowning around. 🤸‍

💸 For those who “can’t afford a class”

Standard class | Yoga at Unity with Michelle Pugh | 📍6230 Lakeland Highlands Rd. | donation based | schedule your class

Michelle teaches hatha classes– a style of yoga based on asanas (postures) and pranayama (breathing techniques). While all donations are accepted, $10- $15 is the norm.

Additional yoga classes can be found at Kelly Recreation Complex, Gandy Pool, and Coleman-Bush Building. Reference the program schedule at the City of Lakeland's Parks & Recreation department.

May these classes lead you to a greater peace of mind, freedom from worry, and a deeper release in those tight hips. (Fact: the hips are where we often hold our greatest amount of stress. 👌 Odd but true.)

Know of a new yoga studio or class I need to try? How about a yoga pun that’s overused? Tell me what’s up, dog in a response to this email. Last one, I promise.

Namaste. 🙏

– Kristin