Charm City Yoga: The hot place to be -- literally!
When even laid-back Baltimore needs to relax and stretch out, local yogis head to Charm City Yoga in the downtown neighborhood of Fells Point. The center actually has four locations, but Fells Point offers a calming water view from its wall of windows off Thames Street.
Charm City Yoga specializes in hot vinyasa, in which the room is heated to 100 degrees to allow the fullest range of body motion. It takes a couple of classes to adjust to the sweltering temperature, but soon students can’t live without it, making Charm City Yoga a literal hot spot.
Unless you sign up for hatha yoga, the vinyasa classes tend to be more rigorous than what a newcomer might expect, and you will sweat, especially in the hot classes. You’ll likely feel your muscles recuperating the next day, but you’ll leave feeling energized, stretched out and calmer than when you went in. Some teachers may preach a little New Age philosophy or read poetry while you’re in downward dog, but the physical results are all the same.
Classes range in levels and difficulty depending on the instructor, but teachers are patient allow you to progress at your own pace. They will help you learn new poses, such as standing on your head and other more advanced moves, and correct your positions so you won't injure yourself.
There are two yoga studios at Fells Point, and a wooden balcony outside, where some classes are sometimes held. There’s a small shop selling yoga clothes and mats in the pleasant airy lobby, and a place to hang your coat and put on your shoes. Two bathrooms with showers are also available after a sweaty session, although most participants just go home to shower afterwards unless they're heading back to the office.
New students can sign up for a bargain $40 unlimited for their first month as they try out the various classes: beginner yoga (which isn’t hot), hot vinyasa, yoga sculpt, astanga yoga, and pre-natal yoga for those who are or might be pregnant. A 10-class pass is also available, as are monthly and annual passes. There are also $6 community yoga classes scheduled, open to all. Mats are available, but it’s wise to buy your own.
HelloBaltimore Tip: Charm City Yoga also offers weekend workshops, teacher training and special events throughout the year.
Posted by Rin-rin Yu
