Swan River Yoga Mandir

Yoga studio · Mid-City

Swan River Yoga Mandir

Yoga studio · Mid-City

2

2940 Canal St, New Orleans, LA 70119

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Swan River Yoga Mandir by null
Swan River Yoga Mandir by null
Swan River Yoga Mandir by null
Swan River Yoga Mandir by null
Swan River Yoga Mandir by null
Swan River Yoga Mandir by null
Swan River Yoga Mandir by null
Swan River Yoga Mandir by null
Swan River Yoga Mandir by null
Swan River Yoga Mandir by null
Swan River Yoga Mandir by null
Swan River Yoga Mandir by null
Swan River Yoga Mandir by null
Swan River Yoga Mandir by null
Swan River Yoga Mandir by null
Swan River Yoga Mandir by null
Swan River Yoga Mandir by null
Swan River Yoga Mandir by null
Swan River Yoga Mandir by null
Swan River Yoga Mandir by null
Swan River Yoga Mandir by null
Swan River Yoga Mandir by null
Swan River Yoga Mandir by null
Swan River Yoga Mandir by null
Swan River Yoga Mandir by null
Swan River Yoga Mandir by null
Swan River Yoga Mandir by null
Swan River Yoga Mandir by null
Swan River Yoga Mandir by null
Swan River Yoga Mandir by null
Swan River Yoga Mandir by null
Swan River Yoga Mandir by null
Swan River Yoga Mandir by null
Swan River Yoga Mandir by null
Swan River Yoga Mandir by null
Swan River Yoga Mandir by null
Swan River Yoga Mandir by null
Swan River Yoga Mandir by null
Swan River Yoga Mandir by null
Swan River Yoga Mandir by null
Swan River Yoga Mandir by null

Highlights

Nestled in a transformed library, Swan River Yoga offers an airy sanctuary with diverse classes, skilled instructors, and an inviting vegan café—all radiating good vibes in New Orleans.  

Featured in Eater
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2940 Canal St, New Orleans, LA 70119 Get directions

swanriveryoga.com
@swanriveryoganola

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2940 Canal St, New Orleans, LA 70119 Get directions

+1 504 301 3134
swanriveryoga.com
@swanriveryoganola

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Jul 21, 2025

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@goop

"This two-story yoga studio—helmed by Keith Porteous and Michelle Baker—wins points for both its teachers and the space, a two-story former public library that the duo restored post Katrina. It is gorgeous—airy, bright—with a giant mural commissioned by the Works Progress Administration during the Great Depression that they uncovered while rehabilitating the building. Besides a traditional menu of classes (many of which are 90 minutes), they offer sound baths, acroyoga, pre-natal yoga, and body work. And, there's an on-site vegan café serving delicious dals. "

The New Orleans Guide
View Postcard for Swan River Yoga Mid-City Mandir
@eater

Three Chefs Shaking Up New Orleans’s Pop-Up Scene - Eater New Orleans

"He’s been eating at the vegan spot — which is now expanded into a larger dining space — for years and has practiced yoga at the adjacent Swan River Yoga studio." - Beth D'Addono

https://nola.eater.com/2020/11/10/21548258/new-orleans-pop-up-restaurants-serigne-mbaye-samira-bechara-indigo-martin
View Postcard for Swan River Yoga Mandir

Sarbari Mukherjee

Google
I absolutely love this space, and all the instructors are wonderful! There’s a variety of yoga styles offered, vinyasa, power flow, yin, sound , meditation. Attached to it is a wonderful vegan cafe. The building used to be a library, it still has a beautiful mural in the main yoga hall. I am so glad to have found this place after researching various yoga studios in New Orleans. I highly recommend Swan River Yoga Mandir! Thank you for making yoga available to me in such a lovely location!

Elizabeth Butler

Google
I had the most wonderful experience at Swan River Yoga, especially in a class led by Caroline. Her teaching style is incredibly peaceful and uplifting, creating a space that feels both calming and lighthearted. The class was deeply grounding, but we also shared moments of laughter, which made it feel even more connected and natural. When Caroline came over to help adjust my pose, I felt an immediate sense of calm—more than I had in weeks. I’ve been navigating some difficult life events, and for the first time in a while, I left class feeling at peace. That sense of stillness and presence is something I’ve struggled to sustain lately, but Caroline’s energy and guidance made it possible, even if just for that hour. I’m so grateful for this class and for Caroline’s teaching. If you're looking for a yoga practice that nurtures both body and mind, I highly recommend Swan River Yoga and taking a class with Caroline.

Nate G

Google
lots of different offerings here: yoga, sound bath, massage, aerial silks, etc

Jessica Zhang

Google
My favorite yoga studio of all time! Lovely lovely vibes. The space is gorgeous and unique. Feels wholesome and authentic. Nice variety of classes. The teachers are sweet and welcoming.

Bethany T

Google
Love the space and the atmosphere. Kundalini is offered here.

Christina Weil

Google
I like the restorative yoga and flow. Instructors teach to all levels

Kelly Snyder

Google
I had a great experience at Swan River Yoga on Canal St recently. Being a beginner, I was a bit hesitant and the staff made me feel comfortable. Thanks!

paula aston

Google
The Swan River mandir is a place of peace and healing and growth. I am new to all of this and have seen amazing changes in my body and spirit in just a month's time. I also am grateful to Good Karma cafe downstairs. Their blessed vegan food is transforming me. So many different levels of yoga; so many different instructors. Come to Swan River. You'll be glad you did. <3
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Michelle M.

Yelp
Great class, good teachers and very reasonable prices. Convenient location on Canal St
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Erin N.

Yelp
This was my regular yoga place for years. The atmosphere is so amazing inside. I particularly like their use of musical instruments at the beginning and end of each yoga class. I've also attended their sound baths on different occasions, and that was a magical experience. The cafe is so delicious. My only complaint is that at a dharma talk I attended years ago, the instructor (I think one of the owners), said that Hurricane Katrina was the karma that New Orleanians got because they cosmically brought it on to themselves. I'm paraphrasing here, but you get the drift. Blame the victim, wrapped up in new-age offensive BS. I attended a few classes after that, but my heart just couldn't be in it anymore.
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Emily M.

Yelp
Walking into Swan River Yoga Mid-City is like opening a present that you were reluctant to, but then couldn't believe you had doubted yourself. I've been living in New Orleans now for 11 years. I've passed this building no less than 64,668,168,718,967 times and could not believe that this was the first time I was crossing the threshold into this serene, calm, restorative space. Housed in an old library building, you are asked to remove your shoes upon entry. Little cubbies line the walls which give you no excuse to not play along. This evening was lively as I had arrived at the same time as an evening restorative yoga class. I was here for a massage and continued to be flabbergasted by this secret that had been peacefully chilling in the background all this time. There were things to buy! Like sage, or incense, or Thai lanterns! How did I not know?!? The lady at the desk sensed my beguiled wonder and amazement and told me about daytime and evening yoga classes and that my masseuse Sara, even conducted some of them. As I was whisked away upstairs to my massage room, I graced the marble stairs that led up to the large, open space that once housed great stacks of books and knew that even though I wasn't really that into yoga, I wanted to come back and do it here. I was absolutely transfixed and can see why this building and its atmosphere has such a following. Namaste!
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Alicia H.

Yelp
What a wonderful yoga studio and community! I had the pleasure of trying out an intermediate yoga class with TQ on Saturday morning while I was in town for a girls weekend vacation. With all the walking and late nights, a morning yoga session was exactly what I needed! I've never been in such a large yoga studio- the studio is very expansive, inviting, and relaxing. Not intimidating at all for the beginners out there. Our intermediate class was in an upstairs smaller studio, which was perfect because the small class yielded lots of one on one instruction & modifications. TQ did a wonderful job explaining new yoga poses to me, and I really liked his meditations & reflections. Signing up for classes is very easy online. Highly recommend!
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Megan B.

Yelp
What a lovely and inviting space!! Brightly colored and two stories, this space screams serenity, peace and yogi love. Inside the space smells of incense and offers a small retail section. Upstairs is an incredible airy loft which serves as the studio. There are murals, an amazing set of gongs and tons of props for FREE!! The community classes are an affordable $8. They have a piano and harmonia they use to create a calm energy and are very yogic tools. Really, just a lovely place to be. I'd recommend making a stop here.
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Jaime T.

Yelp
Popped into the cafe to have some lunch while accompanying a friend to pick up her training certificate. The class offerings listed seemed like a nice mix of flows and times offered. I look forward to Practicing here.
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Joi B.

Yelp
It's been about 5 years since I last reviewed Swan River Yoga and although regretfully I can't add stars (I would, if Yelp had a 6, 7, or heck, even 10 star system), I just want to show them more love. In the years since my last review, I've moved a couple times and was super close to Wild Lotus in the Marigny. Walking to yoga is of course ideal, and Wild Lotus is also a phenomenal experience, so I moved my practice over entirely to there. A couple years, a lapse in practice - I'm living a half hour from civilization- and I started up again at Swan River back in May. It's just been idyllic! I love this studio, with its enormous room upstairs with tons of natural light and air. I love that they burn incense, making for the good smells! I love the morning/afternoon vegan cafe downstairs that makes some of the best cold brew in the city, along with delicious plant-based options (and sinful baked goods that everyone needs once in a while). I love the teachers, especially Michelle and Keith. They both make yoga so approachable that I'd happily bring anyone new to yoga to one of their classes. Love love love. One thing that makes this studio unique is the "Assist" cards (at least I've never seen those at any other studio I've practiced at). If you're not feeling like having the teacher do hands-on assists any given day (or time during the class), you turn the card over. There's also the option for no touching during Savasana. Their schedule is especially appealing to me, as I live a half hour to 40 min in traffic from Downtown. Those mid and late afternoon classes work for me, but there's also morning and evening classes if that works better for people with more conventional schedules. Having two yoga studios that you love in town is priceless! I'm so glad to be practicing on the regular again at Swan River.
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Patty S.

Yelp
I went back and had a two hour service with Taylor. Wow. That was simply amazing. I would highly recommend him. I will try to get an appointment with him every time I'm in Nola. He is the real deal and I don't know if I have ever felt so relaxed. It also helps that the studio itself is so serene and clean. I wish I could hang out there all day.
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Andi F.

Yelp
I do like this yoga studio. I am an extremely new person to yoga, but all of the teachers I have had have been patient and professional. I have only been during the day, and I don't know how the lighting is in the evenings, but I would imagine that its fairly safe at dark. On their website, they have descriptions of all of the classes, and it is clearly marked which are for beginners, and which are for the more advanced. It is all very welcoming and nurturing. This is quickly becoming one of my happy places. All of the employees are very nice. The restrooms are also nice and well stocked. They do have packages you can purchase for discounted rates. There is a parking lot in back, and limited street parking. If your interested at all in yoga, come check them out. There are classes for those that are new to yoga.
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Brandon B.

Yelp
It's been a really long time since I've done yoga, but a few afternoons ago I woke up feeling not so great from overindulging on cocktails the previous night... Before I continue, let me give you a little background: As I get older my hangovers seem to be getting worse, and the old "hair of the dog" trick just doesn't work like it used to. A friend of mine, is OBSESSED with Swan River, and whenever I complain about feeling like dog crap, she gives me the hard sell about trying out yoga. Cut back to a few afternoons ago: the Bloody Maryjane's where not cutting through my hangover (my own invention... THC infused vodka, Clamato, horseradish, Tabasco and loads of black pepper. Add pickled okra and a lemon AND lime wedge for garnish! So good!) I decided to give yoga a try and found a class at Swan River. This place is in an old schoolhouse or fire station... something like that, and aside from being kind of "hippy-dippy" is a pretty cool place. In my younger days I was in very good physical condition. I briefly dated Uma Thurman when she was between billionaires, and we often went to Jiva Mukti near Union Square in NYC. Now THAT is a great place to do yoga! It's basically ALL fashion models... the beauty per square inch ratio is off the charts! Anyway, I feel like I've gotten a little off track on this review.... let me cut to the chase: At Swan River they are NOT friendly. I thought yoga was all about accepting yourself blah blah blah. But I felt super judged by the instructor and many of the students as well. Why were they so mean? Simply because I was rusty? That I asked a few questions? That I had a few unfortunate gastric issues? That I verbalized some the pain I was feeling? You'd have to ask them! But I did feel the need to leave before the class was even over. And I will NOT BE BACK!!!
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Kathryn M.

Yelp
An amazing sanctuary full of highly skilled teachers who are the real deal. I practiced at one of SRY's previous locations many years ago and in town for a wedding, decided I wanted a private Jivamukti class. It was super easy and pleasant to coordinate with Nancy to schedule and Keith Porteus offered me a tailored class perfect for my body, heart and soul (and particular jiva diva desires). My private was in a perfectly sized studio all the way above the main (incredible, vaulted ceiling) space which felt cozy and serene and the incense, essential oils and rosewater Keith had enhanced the relaxation of it all. I was particularly impressed with the amazing and helpful assist to kick my handstand practice to the next level, just what i needed and had been seeking. Particularly special since 7years ago she also got. me. into my first unassisted shirshasana! With a voice on par with Donna de Lory and healing harmonium tunes, she made my shivasana perfection. Thank you Keith and Swan River. It was everything I needed! I also had the matcha /cashew smoothie at the Veg cafe after my class and their lavender cake. Service was wonderful; space was cute, and food was healthy and very delicious with compostable to go ware.
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Jenn C.

Yelp
Without a doubt - this is the nicest yoga studio I have ever visited, and the largest with the highest ceilings. A former library, this was converted to the nirvana of yoga studios in mid-city. Staff are super nice and professional - from the reception at the front desk to the instructor and other instructors I encountered after my class. I attended a beginner class with my friend - and it was a really excellent class. The instructor kept things moving but not a a super fast "flow" pace (I get so tired of flowy cardio yoga classes in the Bay Area) - and I wished we had just a bit more time in the class because it was so enjoyable. Looking forward to attending more classes on my next visit - highly recommend dropping in here!
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Jennifer C.

Yelp
I did a beginner class with a male teacher. I unfortunately forget his name, but his class was very good and I won't forget that! Aside from the great yoga instruction, the staff are extremely kind and helpful. There is also a wonderful vegetarian/vegan cafe in the building that I highly recommend. I wish I lived in New Orleans. I would go to this studio all the time. I live in NYC right now and have tried all sorts of types of yoga and studios. This takes the cake.
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May W.

Yelp
Despite years of meditations, I never thought yoga was for me. I kept on picturing hippies chanting and standing on their heads. It never seemed like fun. But all that changed when I was invited with some friends to check out a Restorative Yoga class. One class was all it took for me to become addicted. An invitation for your senses, I love how they're all enacted there. I love having the space saged before class. Then you get essential oils rubbed over your 3rd eye as well as a singing bowl and gongs are clanged throughout. Best of all, your body starts sinking into all those positions, and it sighs with happiness. And you inhale, breathing into all that new space within your body. With each new pose, you immediately notice the after effects on your body. And mind. So the place becomes addictive. Fun and interesting classes throughout the week with compassionate teachers. Gorgeous building with high ceilings. Lots of community classes and events. Schedule is a breeze with either calling or booking online. Clean bathroom that used to have this addictive salt and lavender mixture with coconut oil. (I wish every bathroom used that instead of soap.) Workshops throughout the year for all parts of your being- mind, body, spirit. I found my yoga home.
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S S.

Yelp
This place has all the good vibes you need. We went to the 4:30 open Level class with Tyler jean. She was very kind and set a very nice pace. We started the class with some chanting, pranayama, then we built some heat and ended with a beautiful guided meditation. The space is really nice and relaxing. My only suggestion would be to bring your own mat or double up on the ones they offer you. I really enjoyed my experience & if I lived here I would gladly make this studio my home.
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Ashley L.

Yelp
I signed up for a class at Swan River Yoga studio because I was in town and would miss my regularly scheduled class at my own studio. It was such a beautiful experience! The studio is an old public library that has been converted to a yoga studio and it is stunning! This was more than a yoga class this was an experience! I felt so relaxed and calm when I left. The instructor was simply amazing. The price was great and the staff made me feel welcome from the minute I stepped into the door. Will definitely be back the next time I'm in town.
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Robin R.

Yelp
Excellent teachers! All are very well trained, caring, and thoughtful. The space is beautiful.
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Amelia B.

Yelp
Attended a Saturday morning class here with Laura as part of a bachelorette weekend. The class was wonderful and laura really allowed everyone to practice at their own pace and comfort level. The space is beautiful and bright and looks like an old public library. They also have aerial yoga classes available.
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Alex L.

Yelp
This place is amazing. I very recently moved away from New Orleans and miss Swan River terribly. I was (and really, still very much am) a yoga newbie, and never felt intimidated or judged when practicing at this studio. Actually, "studio" doesn't feel like the right word as this is really more of a temple and oasis. The space is beyond stunning, and really maintains a calm atmosphere while also giving the option for a challenging practice, if you so choose. All of the instructors are caring and knowledgeable. They all have their own singular style, of course, but you won't be disappointed in any of them. I enjoyed many transformative classes from Thomas, Keith, Claire, Tyler and others. Their assists are super helpful for people like me who are not naturally bendy nor confident in their ability to be bendy :) Anyway, this was the first place I tried yoga and am having difficulty accepting that I'll have to find a new place in my new city. I wish I could transport it to Denver!
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Lacie D.

Yelp
I love this place! It is an oasis for me. I always feel welcomed and never judged. I am completely addicted to restorative yoga. It really helps my stress and pain levels. I love atmosphere of the mandir. They use therapeutic aromas and music to enhance the calming aire. The teachers are great. They adapt to your level and needs and are very calm and tranquil in class. I leave feeling centered and at peace. I was so inspired by the restorative yoga that I've started going to beginner yoga as well. I may be equally addicted. Again, the teachers are great, helpful and kind. Everything it is for beginners, this class is still a workout. They also offer a 4 week beginner yoga course which I am going to take one the next one starts. This focused more on teaching the correct way to do each pose. Great for complete novice like myself. They also offer very challenging courses. Check the website for schedules and class descriptions. All of the equipment you may need is available, making Swan River very beginner friendly.
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Dorothy Y.

Yelp
I can't wait to move closer to this studio! This is my favorite place to practice yoga, initially because it was more convenient than driving all the way Uptown, but now because of the quality of the instructors and classes. I tend to go to Saturday classes because of my work schedule and the good 25 minutes it was taking me to drive here from the East. Jackie's 10:45 AM class is called Slaughter Yoga for a reason; it is an INTENSE workout. Very fast-paced, with an excellently motivating dharma talk, and a great hip-hop playlist. Lately I've been preferring Kelly's 9:30AM Saturday Beginner's Yoga, which may be for beginners, but is not in the least easy. I've also taken an afternoon restorative yoga several times, which was so great for my back. I'm not at all a spiritual person, yet I appreciate their take on the yoga philosophy. Every class introduces a little topic to ponder during the class for the week, and I find that it does guide the practice and the class. If you buy a package, the classes aren't terribly expensive. They offer Groupons or Living Socials from time-to-time, which I'm always eagerly snatching up! Look out in a few months for the vegetarian/vegan restaurant they're opening in part of the downstairs space.
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Niki W.

Yelp
I've really been wanting to try yoga for a long time. I'm new to Mid City and with Swan River being less than a mile from my house, it was time to get to it. I've attended 2 classes so far, and I love yoga and Swan River! The space is beautiful, relaxing and spacious. As other reviewers have noted, you never feel like you're too close to someone else. The teachers are knowledgeable and were great with giving me one on one feedback about my form, which is essential when you're a newbie. They're even working on opening up a vegetarian café. For now, they serve plate lunches for $7 on Saturday afternoons! I'm really lucky to have such a gem so close to my home.
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Rice B.

Yelp
A great place for beginners as well as advanced yogis. This studio offers many types of classes: anusara, aerial, vinyasa, restorative, and more, plus other activities such as meditation, dharma discussion, and musical events! (Something for everyone). There are many instructors, (I've been very pleased with all of them), and there is a lot of SPACE in the studio, (no bumping into fellow students or needing to align mats within 4" each other because of lack of space in the room). If you are curious about yoga and/or interested in yoga, check out SWAN RIVER YOGA. I did, and I LIKE it enough to give it 5 stars!
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Tim W.

Yelp
Great energy from the massive studio with WPA painting on one wall to the delicious cafe downstairs all sprinkled with thoughtful happy people. Steph Smith's kundalini yoga is transforming! Come open to experience the magic.
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Russell W.

Yelp
Excellent place for beginner yoga. I can't speak for the more advanced classes, but I've heard great things about them as well. The actual classes will vary depending on the instructor, but more often than not they will be good. The rooms are VERY spacious so you almost never feel crowded. At the time of writing this, you can get one free class if you are a new student, I recommend trying it out and see if it's a good fit for you. The only real downside is they are sometimes short on props so if you want to ensure that you will have a block/belt/blanket etc make sure you bring your own. The place is also being remodeled, as I believe they plan on putting a tea bar in the front. Just in case hemp diapers go on sale and you find yourself with extra cash.
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Dan F.

Yelp
One of the better spaces I have been to in the country. Was skeptical about the Nola yoga scene, this was the first space I tried and I am impressed.
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Chloe E.

Yelp
I absolutely love Swan River! I've tried a couple different yoga studios in the area, and there's really no comparison. They offer a wide variety of classes- they teach traditional yoga at multiple skill/ fitness levels, acrobatic yoga, bellydancing and more. The facility is amazing and gorgeous. There are two rooms where they teach classes- upstairs and downstairs. The downstairs room is more intimate with soft lighting, and the upstairs room is enormous with very high ceilings, aerial silks and a giant mural on the back wall. Unlike some other yoga studios, there is always plenty of room to stretch out here, which is very important in yoga! And did I mention it always smells amazing?? This place definitely leans toward the hippie spectrum of the yoga community in New Orleans, so expect a few group Ohms at the beginning of class, and maybe a simple chant.
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Britt W.

Yelp
Swan River is my favorite yoga studio in New Orleans and has my favorite teacher, Lindsey! The space at the Mandir is so tranquil and beautiful. They have a ground-level studio and an upstairs studio that is vast and can hold large classes and workshops. Swan River offers a wide variety of classes with several different skill levels and their classes are offered every day of the week. They also have $7 community classes for those who are on a budget! When looking for a yoga studio, put Swan River on the short list! PS- Hey Swan staff- Think about offering teacher discounts on classes! Pretty please!
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Summer F.

Yelp
This space is beautiful and the staff amazing! Go to this studio! The have classes at many different times and offer many teaching styles. If you have a chance to attend a sound bath with Michelle Baker, DO IT!
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Tim V.

Yelp
This was the first place I found that I absolutely love for yoga in New Orleans. They have tons of classes to choose from and the location is beautiful. They practice at all levels. A great place to grow!

Mary W.

Yelp
I love this old library! I am visiting NOLA and thought I would take a few yoga classes while in town. This was the closest to where we're staying. Lucky for me! My classes with Jackie have been wonderful. She is conscientious, knowledgeable, and has a delightful personality. Everyone I have encountered there is lovely. I had acupuncture with an expert named Katya. The desk staff is welcoming. The space is beautiful, spacious and super-clean. The attached restaurant is very good, too! I wish we had somewhere just like this at home!
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Emily M.

Yelp
I am currently in NOLA on travel and stopped in here this morning on a whim. What a special place. The studio is in an old library with amazing high ceilings. The class was 90 minutes and included chanting. Loved the teacher and want to come here again. He was so welcoming. One of the best classes I have had in a long time. I went to the cafe in the space for a nourishing meal after my class. Great way to start my day
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Shawn C.

Yelp
Valerie Viosca is the best acupuncturist in the city of New Orleans. She's amazing. For any ailment, she can help you. She's professional and effective. Acupuncture doesn't hurt.
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Renee A.

Yelp
This place is my heart! My home away from home. The community and non-competitive vibes make it comfortable, not to mention the gorgeous space where you never feel crowded. You know it's a great place to practice when all the teachers take each other's classes! Michelle and Keith are two very distinct and beautiful goddesses who are really living yoga full on! Jai!!!
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Eleni F.

Yelp
Lovely yoga studio! This place is so welcoming and the class was also very nice and nurturing. Went there last night for prenatal yoga. It is one of the only places in the city I can find that offers prenatal yoga classes. I very much enjoyed the class, the atmosphere and the staff. My only complaint was the location. I have recently moved to Metairie from mid city but even when I did live in the neighborhood this is not the kind of area you want to be alone in after dark. My 8 month pregnant self felt kind of exposed walking to my car after dark by myself parked on one of the surrounding side streets. If I could pick up the studio and move it closer to city park or at least in a slightly safer neighborhood it would be perfect. Thanks for the class, I will likely be back in the daytime after the baby arrives.
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Alyse P.

Yelp
i love this yoga studio. i felt very welcomed from the moment i first walked in. the only requirement to be here is the desire to practice yoga. i came in as a complete novice with no experience. since then i have continued taking beginner levels 1 & 2, restorative yoga, and open flow classes. i loved the practice of yoga from the very beginning. i had considered trying yoga for many years but only knew of classes at chain gyms and that wasn't what i was looking for. realizing swan river was right in my own neighborhood i decided to check it out and i am oh so glad i did. it feels spiritual here, yoga is a practice not just a means of exercise here. i have received so many benefits from coming here. for starters i have had a diagnosed anxiety disorder for 12 years. practicing yoga here has greatly helped that. it's like mediation and therapy. all the teachers here are wonderful souls who will make you comfortable in class and go above and beyond to give you the support you need. this place is the real deal. if you're looking for yoga in nola, look no further.
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Amy H.

Yelp
This studio was a find through a groupon or living social type deal. Probably would not have checked them out without it, because if you read my other yoga reviews, you will see how cheap I am. I say that as a disclaimer, not as a badge of honor. However, now that I've been to the studio, I love it and am considering buying a package. The studio is absolutely gorgeous - haven't been upstairs, but the downstairs is a great space. Totally agree with another review that raved about how much space is around you. Probably the only studio I've been to in New Orleans where I am consistently happy about my personal space. Other plusses: -free mats, props to borrow -teachers (or at least Mary) make use of varied props - can be fun and gives you more ideas for variations on poses, especially during restorative or relaxation poses -great locker room space to change As far as specific experiences, I can only speak to one class and one teacher: Mary - Thursdays at 6. She is amazing. Every time I go to her class, I do something I've never done before. She is a talented vocalist and basically forces you to do the compulsory chanting/singing, but her voice is so beautiful, you almost want to do it just to hear her sing along with you. She's enthusiastic and one of the most hands-on teachers I've practiced with - and I mean that in a helpful-I-never-knew-my-body-could-do-that way versus an annoying hovering. She cares about your alignment and your practice; she is never phoning it in as a teacher. She does variations on her corpse poses in terms of music or interesting meditations. I swear I cried one day in her class at the end because it was all just so wonderful and I felt like, for a short time, I knew my place in the universe. It sounds dramatic and cheesy, but what can I say? The class is great. I mean, ending your practice with meditations on the universe by Neil deGrasse Tyson??? Amazing. Other interesting points to her class -difficult and unusual poses, but plenty of variation if you aren't into it -lots of 1:1 assistance, even when class is fairly big -she also teaches occasional paddleboard yoga classes - super fun for something different to try
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C H.

Yelp
Why does this place have picnic tables blocking the entrance? It's like a jungle gym trying to get inside!
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Dee P.

Yelp
I can't possibly say enough great things about this place. I know there are yoga studios on every other corner but Swan River Yoga is truly a beautiful experience. The sound of Michelle Baker's voice during her Mantra sessions is angelic to say the least. Not to mention her extensive knowledge in all that embodies her craft. I've also had personal sessions and experiences with the amazing Kelly Haas and the so loving Keith Porteous, both very gifted Teachers and Therapists. The atmosphere feels like another world.....mystical and magical is how I'd describe it.
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Jessica Y.

Yelp
This is my favorite yoga studio in the world! I can walk into the door and feel my energy shift into a lower, more grounded place. All of the classes are really good and the teachers are some of the coolest, wisest, most compassionate, loving beings on the planet. I cannot say enough good things about the midcity sanctuary. Try any of their classes and you are in for a real treat. :)
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Leelee B.

Yelp
A nice yoga studio. They offer lots of classes at a variety of times. Of those I have tried, I really enjoyed the Candelight Yoga on Friday night. It was a combination of alignment focus and some restorative work. I also highly recommend any class with Keith Porteous. The studios are very large, so you have plenty of personal space. Their Marigny studio is very peaceful.
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laha l.

Yelp
I really enjoyed my time at Swan River. I went to my first class ever at noon today. My teacher was Michelle. I connected with her right away. She has that energy and attitude that you just love and admire and want to be more like. The room is so spacious and unique with a beautiful piano in the corner. I felt at ease and it was good to be back on my mat. I enjoyed the chanting at the beginning and the message that Michelle gave about appreciating the company you keep and loving the moment you are in , it really spoke volumes to me, especially today. My body and mind felt amazing at the end of class. While we were in shavasana, Michelle played all kinds of singing bowls, which made a beautiful sound where it was reverberating your whole body. Thank-you so much for making me feel welcomed. I will be back again very soon!

Courtney E.

Yelp
I've been practicing yoga for one year and I still consider myself to be way amateur but I've tried a few different studios and this one is awe strikingly beautiful! I've taken a couple of classes here but never more than one with the same instructor. Today, I took my first class with Brigitte. It was awesome! Her dharma talk and then the invigorating class were just what I needed. She's got a big fan in me now! Her figure was amazing and her skin glowed... What ever she's doing I want to do. Ayurveda? Vegan? I hope to learn the secret!

Danielle P.

Yelp
I hopped around to different yoga studios throughout the city for a few months trying to find my favorite, and this place is it! First of all, the studio is absolutely gorgeous when you walk in. I was in awe with it's beauty, and I was told to walk around and feel free to check out the 3rd floor. It's definitely the most spacious studio I've been to in NOLA. That was my biggest complaint with other studios... how I was literally only a few inches away from the next person. I like a bit of personal space. Plus I love the variety of classes and the large selection of times to choose from. All the instructors that I have had over the past few months have all been great! Swan River is definitely my favorite place to do yoga in NOLA!

Lindsey T.

Yelp
Beautiful setting to practice yoga. Great variety and schedule of classes. Kind of pricey per class, but the packages aren't as bad. I would definitely suggest this place for a moderate/experienced yogi.

Mary P.

Yelp
I've enjoyed classes with all the teachers I've had so far - I really enjoy a challenging yoga class and that's easily found here. It's worth the half hour it takes me to get there! Beautiful, spacious, welcoming studio.