Review: Spirit Yoga | Berlin

Spirit Yoga | BerlinClass: Level 2
Length: 90 minutes
Cost:  15 Euro ($19USD)
Studio: Spirit Yoga Mitte | Berlin
Instructor: Kristin Rubesamen
What to expect: With 2 locations in Berlin, offering between 8 - 10 classes a day, Spirit Yoga caters to a local and international crowd by offering classes in English as well as providing child care certain days. Like most studios, you leave your shoes at the door, but hang your jacket in the changing room. Germans are a bit more open when it comes to nudity, so don’t be surprised with the communal changing room. I quickly learned to just go with it. There is a shower, which is not communal though.
 

Our take: Located on top floor towards the back of a courtyard, this beautifully designed studio with floor to ceiling windows allows for great views of the city. Luckily almost everyone speaks English in Berlin, as sadly, I know no German. Taking a class in German was a first for me, but settling in was easy. The person at the front desk was helpful, the practice room spacious, and the mats brand new. Doing yoga when you don’t know what is being said, is both frustrating and liberating. I was able to move and not analyze so much. I spoke briefly with Kristin, the teacher, at the beginning of the class, and placed myself next to another teacher, to watch when necessary. Kristin trained in New York with many teachers I admire so I recognized her class as very similar to the Vinyasa flow/Anusara type classes I take in Santa Monica. The main difference was the pace of the class; the poses were held longer with more explanation. At the end of class, Kristin explained that yoga is different in Germany than in the States, as words and explanation are more important in their practice. The class was challenging, just more deliberate. There were no crazy poses, but I definitely found myself shaking and sweating. While I did not understand what Kristin was saying, I enjoyed listening to her speak, and every so often recognized some sanskrit. The instrumental music in the background, set to a perfect volume filled in the silence when necessary. After a week of sightseeing, Kristin’s class was just what I needed. I felt relaxed, stretched out, and loved the neck massage at the beginning of the class. Too bad I met her two days before my departure.

difficulty: (4) atmosphere: (5) likely to return:(5)

Reviewed by Kristen Matthews, a Los Angeles based Pilates instructor who teaches in Santa Monica and outlying neighborhoods.