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MindBodySoulYoga Studio on Fort Washington Avenue offers 27 classes every weed taught by eight teachers. PHOTO: Ola Ahmad May
by Nancy Bruning
It’s no secret that New Yorkers are stressed. Even up here, in “upstate Manhattan” away from the intense hustle and bustle, bills need to be paid, children dropped off at the next activity, laundry needs to be done, bosses need to be contended with, parents taken care of, nightly news digested. Did I mention parking and our quirky public transportation schedule?
We’re all pretty much aware of the toll untamed stress can take on our quality of life as well as our health. Excess stress had been linked for example with fatigue, diabetes, hypertension, ulcers, loss of libido, reduced resistance to disease, endocrine imbalance, accelerated aging and death, memory problems, depression, diabetes, hair loss, heart disease, hyperthyroidism, obesity, tooth and gum disease, and possibly even cancer.
It’s estimated that up to 90 percent of doctor’s visits are for conditions in which stress at least plays a role.
And what about a little talked about form of stress – the separation of the body from the mind and soul? That’s where MindBodySoul Yoga Studio comes in.
I first met founder and director Alyssa Snow by phone and email when she opened her studio a couple of years ago. But recently I finally made it to her warm and friendly place at W. 170th Street and Fort Washington Avenue.
The studio offers classical yoga with an array of classes to choose from to fit all levels of physical practice. Alyssa says that “teachers teach to the level of the class and students are supported throughout.” Classes range from gentle to vigorous and include movement and meditation with an emphasis on breath awareness. For example: Vinyasa, Hatha, Restorative, Anusara, Kundalini, and the very special Goddess Yoga class with language and movements devoted to supporting physical and creative fertility.
During the Vinyasa class I attended, Alyssa gently led us through a series of movements that flowed with our breath and left me feeling cleansed of those dark thoughts that seem so prevalent in the winter. I felt relaxed, but also invigorated. That night, I slept like a log, and the next day I had that tell-tale toned feeling that I had gotten a good “work out” – using nothing more than my body and gravity.
MindBodySoul classes are generally limited to 10 students or less, so participants receive a distinctly personal education, as I can attest. Alyssa gently corrected our form so we would avoid injury and reap the greatest benefits. Alyssa says: “We want to be able to serve the body, mind, and spirit, starting with the physical asanas (poses) ... We want to make people feel good. We’re all so busy, so much stuff is coming at us. We want to create a place that’s safe and supportive. Women are so busy supporting others – it’s nice to come to a place and be supported.”
The space itself is quite pleasant. Strings of tiny white lights line the room. On one wall is a colorful mural of Buddha under the Bodhi Tree painted by local artist Laurence Groux. On another wall, Chakras were painted by Aryn Chapman.
Alyssa has been studying yoga for over 13 years and teaching for nine. Despite being six months pregnant, Alyssa is still teaching, illustrating that yoga can be practiced no matter what your age or condition. “The teachers and students all know each other, about each others’ lives. What we have created here is a community,” Alyssa said. “Yoga has changed my life and I want to offer that to other people. Beginners are encouraged to stop by and check us out! Yoga is great for all!”
MindBodySoulYoga Studio is located at 238 Fort Washington Avenue (enter on W. 170th Street). For more information abut the studio’s 27 weekly classes or eight teachers, call 718-289-3182 or visit http://www.mindbodysoulyoga.com/Home.html. Check out the short video of Alyssa leading a 15-minute Hatha sequence for the morning. It will change your day.
Nancy Bruning has a master’s degree in public health, is a certified personal trainer, and is the author or co-author of over 25 books on health and fitness. She also is the Chair of the Friends Committee of the Fort Tryon Part Trust and leads outdoor fitness experiences and weight loss workshops. Visit Nancy’s web site at www.NancyBruning.net, hear her at www.blogtalkradio.com/Nancercize, or email her at
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