Amara Yoga & Arts

Category:	Yoga Studio
Address:	Lincoln Square, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
Phone:	+1 217-328-9642
Site:	amarayoga.com
Rating:	4.8

Location

Photos 49

Reviews 12

Emily E.

This is a really great place to go, especially if youre a beginner. I would say that most of the classes are open to people with all levels of yoga experience. The teachers always demonstrate ways to make poses more challenging and encourage you to be mindful of your body so you dont push yourself to the point of injury, which I really appreciate. Im a runner, so I kind of came into yoga with the mentality that you need to ignore pain and push yourself. I like that Amaras yoga philosophy is not like that. They encourage you to challenge yourself, but within reason--not to the point of pain or injury. I only started doing yoga about 2 months ago and I am hooked on it! I have never had a bad class here either. The teachers are very knowledgeable and patient and always stay after class so you can ask them questions. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming. Its really great to sit down and have a cup of tea before or after class and they provide free passes that you can give out to your friends who have never been to Amara before. For people new to Amara they offer a $20 unlimited pass for the first week, so I did that for my first week and then immediately got a membership. Im a student so I pay $59 a month (for 6 months), which really is not a whole lot when you think about it, especially since other places will charge you $14 per class. I also go at least 3 times a week, so the membership is perfect for me!

AnnaG

Amara is hands down the best yoga studio in C-U! Its a gorgeous and inviting space filled with local art and locally produced body care products, teas, jewelry, books and lots of high quality yoga merchandise. If you prefer to shop local you can get some really nice gifts at Amara! Equally impressive is the friendly and informative staff and instructors. They are always there to help and never make you feel dumb if you ask questions or are confused, which is so very important when you are new to yoga. Amara offers so many different classes, you can literally do a different workout every day of the week. And the fees are more than reasonable, you even get an introductory rate if you have never been before ($30 for 30 days) Check it out, you wont be disappointed. We just love it there!!

Veronica Steffen

I am a studio assistant at Amara and just recently started about 2 weeks ago. Amara offers unique classes and workshops for inexperienced (like myself) to experienced yoga friends! If youre a member you are able to take guests and if youre an assistant you get help tidy up the studio but also get the perks of taking the classes that are offered here! I have taken classes before but have never felt inclined to go back due to lack of community and atmosphere. The staff, instructors and community here is definitely one that is vibrant, welcoming and work together as a team. If youre looking for a place to learn yoga or simply relax and practice yoga with experienced instructors and a wonderful community–Amara offers a unique experience for all friends!

A Private User

Great community and diverse classes! Three years ago I was convinced by a close friend to try out yoga for the first time. A bit hesitant, I decided to join her for a class at Amara. I was hooked and have been regularly practicing yoga ever since. Amara has a truly unique atmosphere that embraces local artists and encourages the exploration of the self. The yogis are very knowledgable, articulate, and encouraging. Whether you are the kind of person who wants to explore yoga philosophy, enjoy a well rounded workout, or if youre just an average Joe, Amara surely has a class for you. Namaste!

Tess M

I loved going here but it was expensive for single classes when I went, and I wasnt ready to commit to a membership since I only very occasionally do yoga. They do have multi-pack passes, and I have been considering getting a 10-session pass since that is much cheaper per session. Outside of the regular yoga classes, I went to one of the Chakra coloring events a while back, and that was a lot of fun. We learned about once of the chakras and colored a page with the associated symbol. There was wine and some simple yoga to go along with the coloring event.

A Private User

The lighting and spaciousness of the studio is very relaxing and uplifting. Everything is aesthetically considered. It is well organized and the teachers are great. They have several classes offered daily and there is a variety of levels for everyone including children. They also offer Pilates and Art workshops. There is a very welcoming atmosphere. You feel as though you can hang out, sip tea, read magazines and chat before or after your class. I recommend stopping by after the Farmers Market on Sat. morning. It is near the Food Coop.

Amber Robbs

Great instructors and place for beginners, no judgment in classes and incredibly helpful. BUT the staff is incredibly RUDE and DISRESPECTFUL. There are so many hidden fees to become a member or even once you are a member they dont tell you that some classes cost $40 until after you have completed the classes and by then you are trapped to pay. I really enjoyed my time there but after being mistreated and disrespected by staff (not instructors) I will be finding another place to practice

Mariana Lencina

This is a very Urbana-like place, welcoming and friendly. It has a broad spectrum of classes, going from fun and chill, to some more physically intense or spiritual and relaxing. Also, instructors are always willing to help you even when youre the beginner in a clearly advanced class. Overall a great environment to start trying yoga, specially considering their new student promotion that allows you to go unlimited times for a month, so you find your favorite classes and instructors.

A Private User

This yoga studio has some very good teachers, (Grace Giorgio is outstanding) and some teachers who are not really yoga teachers. You can often tell the quality of the class by the size--Giorgios class is large and crowded, and some of the others are not. The use of music is sometimes distracting and unprofessional--one teacher had us listen to internet radio with advertisements during class. Worth going to if you make sure that you get a licensed and experienced yoga teacher.

A Private User

Amara is the best. I have been to many yoga studios over the past 6 years and Amara is hands down the best place Ive been to. The teachers are excellent- highly qualified and very talented. The space is beautiful and I always enjoy checking out the art before and after class. The best part of Amara though is the nurturing, supportive environment- on a bad day, or even on a good day, I always come out of Amara feeling a lot better.

Billi Jo Hart

This studio gives off an incredible chill, accepting and healing vibe the moment you walk through the door. Its always impeccably clean and the instructors/staff are some of the most genuine and nicest people Ive met. Ive been taking classes for awhile now and Im hooked! Theyre non-judgmental and the instructors know how to cater moves to all skills levels. Would absolutely recommend!

William Ingram

Highly recommended. I have been going to Amara off and on for years now. Its great. They have many classes for beginners and offer regular Yoga 101 courses for people who have never done yoga before or have fallen out of practice. The instructors are awesome. I go to Amara now instead of the gym -- its much more fun, and I get an overall better workout.