It’s Guest Blogger Time for Hint Of Local. My better half has recently gotten back into yoga and literally begged to share her experiences with the yoga studio of Little Rock. Without any further ado…

I was introduced to yoga several years ago as a freshman in college when forced to take an exercise class. I instantly fell in love with an ancient form of exercise that allowed me to work out my muscles and focus my mind. As my course was over, I sometimes found myself longing for those days of happy baby and sun salutations.

Fast forward to a year after graduation, I was finally able to begin yoga again. The only problem is that there aren’t any yoga studios in Benton. I tried a couple of different gyms that offered what they called yoga, but anyone that had ever practiced would have known better. Finally I happened across Barefoot Yoga Studio!

Barefoot Yoga Studio is the oldest yoga studio in Little Rock, celebrating their 20^th year in business this year. They have been awarded as best yoga studio for many years by many different publications. One class at this studio and you will know why!

I walked in for my first class (Hot Power Yoga @ 5:30 on Mondays) and was instantly welcomed by a calming mixture of local flair and eastern influence. I took off my sandals and headed into the larger [packed] studio to begin an all levels power yoga heated to about 95 degrees. After only an hour of asanas I was sure my search for a quality class was over. I was surrounded by fellow yogis and yoginis that truly respected the art and weren’t just looking to drop pounds. The class was a fantastic mixture of stretching, strength training, and of course, focus. If you have are experienced with Yoga, but have never tried Bikram Yoga, this is a great class to expand your practice!

Over the next week of free classes – Yes, that’s right, FREE! New students get to enjoy a week of free classes to try out the studio – I tried the Intermediate class as well as the All Levels Flow. The intermediate class with Breezy really allowed me to focus on my practice and push myself in each pose to my individual limit. The All Levels Flow class was good, but probably my least favorite of the 3 classes I tried that week (mainly because it was hard to beat the hot power yoga and intermediate classes).

I am happy to say I have found my Yoga home in Little Rock and will continue to sweat it out weekly in the Hot Power Yoga class. It makes me ecstatic to find a place close to home that focuses on not only the physical aspects of the practice, but also the mind. When I leave wake from Savasana I am at peace with myself and the world awaits me. If you are looking for a great place to work out, and find your harmony, get the studio and try out a class, you will be happy you did!