NOLA Yoga Journey: Freret Street Yoga

Join New Orleans yogi Brianna Smyk at this week’s NOLA Yoga Journey stop: Freret Street Yoga.

Studio: Freret Street Yoga

Location: 4608 Freret Street

Overview: Freret Street Yoga is a unique yoga experience among the other studios in New Orleans. Owner Geoffrey Roniger is one of those truly gifted yoga teachers who brings balance into the lives of his students through the practice of yoga. When asked why he opened the studio, he responded: “I wanted to import all of the knowledge and training I received during my time in San Francisco to my hometown that I love so much.” Roniger seamlessly blends the West Coast yoga style into the New Orleanian lifestyle and community.

Ambiance: To enter the studio, one passes through a charming garden that instantly sets the tone for this Zen studio. Though not all classes use them, the ropes on the wall may intimidate the first-time practitioner at Freret Street, but be not afraid, the pulleys on the walls add a bit of an acrobatic element into the practice and allow one to really let go in a way that is not possible without these props.

Community: This yoga community is very positive and very encouraging. Even when one goes inward during class, one can feel the strong sense of community and flow of energy.

Classes/My Picks: I would definitely recommend starting with a level 1/2 class at this studio, as some of the practices and use of the pulleys are worth getting accustomed to before diving into a level 3. That being said, all of the classes will guide one through the practice and bring a sense of balance and enlightenment both during and after the practice. Roniger recently expanded his schedule to include multiple teachers, any of whose classes are worth attending.

Price: There is an introductory student rate: three classes for $20, a rare find in New Orleans. $15 for a drop-in class; $70 for a 5 class pass; $130 for a 10 class pass; $240 for a 20 class pass; $160 for a month unlimited pass; $1,200 for a year unlimited class; $10 for students; and Freret Street also offers private classes!

NOLA Yoga Journey recaps one yogi’s journey through the yoga studios in New Orleans. It explores the unique yoga community of New Orleans, one that reflects the life, culture, and mindset of the city and its people.

Brianna Smyk has an M.A in Art History from San Diego State University. She lives and works in New Orleans and writes about arts and culture for NolaVie. Read more of Brianna’s articles at www.beingbreezie.tumblr.com.