Jen R.
Yelp
I love this yoga studio. And when I am at other yoga studios in nor cal I often wish I was back at 5 points. This is such a wonderful addition to the Malibu Country Mart because it's a place not focused on consumerism and it breeds community!
The 5 points it's named after are mental wellness, physical fitness, nutrition, community and environment. Environment?! How exciting for this tree hugging chick.
Studio
When I walk in I am always greeted by smiling faces at the desk and teachers that are excited to teach their class. The space itself is open, light, airy, & always clean. Natural light in the day, soft dim lights at night. Always kept at an appropriate temperature for the day's weather and often feels like a safe haven when you come in.
Teachers
All very skilled and truly passionate about practicing and teaching yoga. I have taken class with six or seven different teachers and I appreciate the flair that each teacher brings to their and to my practice. Some really focus on breathing with the movements others will help you achieve perfect alignment in positions.
Every teacher plays music but such a wide variety is played that I don't get bored. Most teachers will demonstrate poses and then walk around to make sure everyone is holding themselves correctly or just to check in to see if you're ok. I love this. I think it's so important to check in with your students.
The teachers are there to help you. If you're new to headstand or bridge or anything they are teaching they can guide you through the movements and offer tips that will help you build to the new pose. I have never been injured or feared I would be injured at this studio- which I cannot say for all studios.
Nearly every teacher brings something extra to the class- sage, oils, massage, small adjustments while in savasana (final resting pose), tuning fork, quotes of the day, knowledge about the history of yoga or origin of words associated with practice.
Classes
Normal rate is $20/ class but, hey, its Malibu. I do think this is pricey but I took advantage of the unlimited practice for two weeks for $30 and their 10 classes for $180 package. Most classes run for an hour and a half. This was a great change for me as I was used to the hour long class. With the extra time you get to work just a little bit harder and have a longer final resting pose.
The unlimited classes deal really helped me take my practice to the next level and I highly recommend taking advantage of this deal! I went almost everyday and this constant work with varying teachers really gave me new strength and new confidence.
There are many classes offered throughout the day, everyday. I don't often feel like I wont be able to fit in yoga for the day because the class I want is only at one time per day. Classes are usually small 5-6 students, larger in the evenings. I've been to more than one class with only one other person besides myself and had a private session too.
I highly recommend the yoga/workout class with Ted because it is the perfect blend of yoga and strength training and you walk out feeling like you got your workout for the day.
This studio also offers more than just regular yoga they have aerial practice and ballet dance classes. Hopefully, soon some community events and other dance styles.
I could go on and on about this studio. The only small dislike I have about this place is the floor isn't as solid as a normal hardwood floor. When you are lying on the floor and someone walks past you or up to you the floor moves a tiny bit and it can feel jarring when you are in a relaxed state. But this is such a small thing compared to all the wonderfulness this studio offers.
