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Kula Toronto
Category: Active Life Fitness & Instruction Yoga Yoga [Edit]
304 Brunswick AveToronto, ON M5S
(416) 922-5852
- Hours:
Mon-Wed 6:30 am - 11 pm
Thu 6:30 am - 10 pm
Fri 10 am - 10 pm
Sat 10 am - 6:30 pm
Sun 10 am - 9 pm
- Good for Kids:
- No
22 reviews for Kula Toronto
22 reviews in English
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Review from Ethel T.
Richmond, BC
5/24/2012
This is the studio where I had my first ever yoga practice and I still pop by occasionally whenever I'm in the area to check out their drop-in classes.
The Bad:
Over the years, I feel like I've seen Kula go through a lot of changes. When it first opened, it didn't have an overly 'factory' feel to it, which I think one person observed below. This meant that there was ample room for everyone. Now, though, it looks as though all of the classes I go to are absolutely packed, to the point where it is difficult to do a flow sequence without accidentally kicking someone. This also means that the changing rooms are totally full; it is difficult to get space on one of the benches to put your bags and to change.
I also echo what someone said below about the impersonal feel that you get from this studio. The teachers are, for the most, part, kind, generous with their time, and inspirational. However, some of the people who work behind the front desk feel a bit...too cool for school. There are some students who are treated warmly but the rest are treated indifferently. I personally don't care all that much, but it certainly doesn't have the warm, inclusive vibe that it had years ago.
The Good:
Before I start sounding like some old fogey who reminisces too much on the good old days, I must say that Kula is still a great studio. Yes, it is crowded. And yes, it may be a bit impersonal. But, as mentioned, most of the teachers are pretty awesome. Each teacher teaches classes in a way that reflects their personalities. A special shout-out go to Tessa and Ana Maria, who are just great! This also means that you can choose which teacher suits YOUR yoga preference. I personally can't do a lot of Marinella's classes because I find that her classes stress me out but I have friends who love her. By giving a variety of classes that each imbibe the teacher's personal 'touch', Kula provides a great way to cater to different people's preferences. (I would add, though, that some of the classes taught by the teachers going through the teachers' training program are a mixed bag. I took a $5 community class taught by one such student and it was horrific. I feel like the teacher wanted to show off how well she could do splits and backbends and shoulder stands rather than show the students different variations of the same poses).
Another good thing about Kula is the price. Where else can you find $8 classes offered daily? Seriously, yoga in this city can be so expensive, but Kula ensures that prices are kept reasonable.
Lastly, I like that Kula offers regular workshops and tries to provide new, innovative classes. They recently started offering 'power yoga' classes, which are such good fun and such a great work-out.
***
In sum, despite the negative changes that have taken place over the last few years, Kula is still one of my top studies in the city. -
Review from Laz C.
Toronto, ON
1/14/2012
Ick, the yoga factory, er Kula, doesn't do it for me. Sure they have a great looking schedule brimming with all kinds of yoga, and of course a stellar intro deal that I was contemplating before trying, before I actually tried the place (via Passport).
I went to a Saturday "Hot" Flow, which was more of an 'uncomfortably warm' flow. It was also uncomfortably packed. It is really hard to "open up" when you're slapping back and forth with the people next to you. The class was somewhat challenging physically, which I appreciated, but instruction was pretty vague. I didn't get any of the mental zen, which is my reason for going to yoga. All I could think was, "oh I need to move back or she's going to kick me...uh sorry, I didn't mean to hit you...when the hell can I get out of here?"
Back in the tiny change room I was more focused than during class, as I consciously tucked in my elbows to avoid jabbing nearby eyes as I swapped my shirt. I left feeling like I had just been trapped in an elevator for an hour. -
Review from Jennifer P.
12/29/2011
I was in town for five days over Christmas, and was hoping to get as many yoga classes in as possible. I walked over to Kula Yoga and explained I'd only be there until the 26th, and the lady at the desk set me up with their intro 30 for 30 deal. I wouldn't be around for 30 days, but four classes for $30 is a great deal in itself.
I went to one evening class my first day, then a morning class with Elise the second day. I loved it. There's more talk and chanting and singing than my studio in Seattle, but I actually found that it really wakes the class up and gets them engaged. Everyone was super present through class, and I even had one of those rare and gratifying "there's no way I'll ever be able to do that--Oh I'm doing it!" moments.
I was stoked to go back , but the next day (the 24th), I double checked the schedule and found that all of the classes up to the day I was leaving town had been abruptly canceled. Obviously it was due to the Christmas Holiday, but the classes were listed as upcoming right up to the day before, then suddenly everything was struck through. If I'd known there would be no classes after those first two days, I would've just paid the drop in fees. Kind of a bummer, so 4 stars when I just consider the classes, three stars with the scheduling bummer taken into account. -
Review from Michelle D.
Toronto, ON
11/10/2011
A really good friend of mine is addicted to this place....and I mean twice-a-day-yoga-classes-addicted to it!!
So I went here for the first time with her on a free pass she had for a first timer, and it was amazing! We did a hot yoga class in the evening.
The studio is centrally located at brunswick and bloor, and although it's a bustling neighbourhood, you can't hear much of the city once inside the studio. It's clean and inviting, and everyone is super friendly (of course!) The bathroom is super clean and new and I was just very pleased with the studio!
The room wasn't too hot, nor was it very crowded at all.... Everyone was very relaxed and the instructor was great. There was soft music in the background and different poses were given different levels to accommodate beginners/advanced participants - so that was great too! Our instructor had lots of 'mindful phrases' and 'meditation lingo' going on all throughout the hour - which I have to admit I absolutely loved! Makes you think and focus at the same time...it's very strange!!
After discussing and evaluating the class with my friend she told me that every class is different.... and so is every instructor. So for this purpose they have a 'newcomers 30$ 30-day pass' so you can try out all the classes and instructors at your own accord for only 30$!! I'M BUYING THIS SOON!
In general, they also have 8$ Flow classes and 5$/Pay what you can Karma classes!!! This is great for people who can't justify paying 20$ for a yoga class or can't afford or commit to the unlimited month-long passes..... They also have Yoga for KIDS!!! -SO AWESOME. and I've heard their "Reiki Restorative" classes are phenomenal. -
Review from Anabel L.
Toronto, ON
9/8/2011
I started yoga about 6 years ago, and I take it and myself about as seriously as I did then.
Over the years I've learned I like yoga that's more fitness. I'm not a big ohm-er or chant-er. I will do a little bit. Just a little. I've also learned that I like hot yoga, and any flow by any name, Vinyasa, Anusara , Ashtanga, etc. I like it all, except Bikram. I tried it. We were an ill-fated pair.
I've made it my mission to find the best yoga studio in each area I frequent. The area I've focussed on for past quarter of this year is the Annex. You would think there would be a lot of yoga studios to choose from. There aren't. I picked Kula from the Yelp reviews. Now I'm giving back.
It's a favourite. It's not the nicest studio but it's enough that my princess tendencies are satisfied.
I love that they have enough classes that I can always get to one. Fellow yoga peeps are mellow too. (Unlike Downward Dog - I'll get to them another day.)
Kula's classes, save and except the Restorative, never get filled. Then again, the rats just unleashed themselves back onto campus so I might have to take that back.
If you're looking for a solid Ansura practice, Kula is your joint. I haven't tried every class, but enough to say that Marinella's Hot Expanding class could be considered a Level 2 because she pushes you to challenge yourself in a playful way. She's sassy, and I've found that every Kula class is a clear reflection of the teacher's personality. And like in any group, you'll find your favourites. I like Chrys' classes, and highly recommend Christi-an's live Live Music Flow. It's an hour-and-a-half of stretch, sweat, and smiles. Sweet.
Kula also offers one of the best intro deals because as any dedicated yoga-goer knows, intro deals are how you start, the classes will be the reason you go back (or don't). You just have to find the right fit. Kula might be yours, it's just $30 for 30 days to find out. -
Review from Allison D.
Toronto, ON
7/23/2011
Let me begin by saying I *want* to like Kula. I really do. The location is great: for someone who used to live at Spadina and Dupont, you can't really get much closer. The schedule is good: I like that there are a number of afternoon classes for those of us whose work schedules are shift-ey as well as a number of evening and weekend classes (and even weekend evening classes!). The two instructors I have had there have been lovely: I highly recommend going to classes with Ana Maria or Linseed. And I love a studio where you can have options of hot or regular temperature classes so I don't end up putting my membership on hold in the hot hot months of the summer. But there's just something that leaves a bad taste in my mouth...
I have been to a few classes here before my experience this week. In the winter, they had a Hot Karma class on Saturday in the late afternoon (ana Maria's class), and you can't argue with hot yoga for $5! This week I went to the Reiki Restorative class with Linseed; this was my Passport class. Never having done a restorative class before, it was a different experience. I'm much more used to vinyasa or ashtanga and lots of flowing. I do want to give restorative another chance (second first chances are key), but I don't think I'm a total convert.
The space is lovely. That said, it does overlook Bloor and Brunswick, and Bloor is a busy, noisy street; it's hard to restore and chill when you hear mid-day traffic and yelling.
The folks who work reception? I think that's my discomfort. While friendly enough, I definitely felt an "other" vibe when the receptionist greeted regulars for the class. I also felt like I was a horrible, horrible person for not buying one of the mason jars and instead running across the street to get a plastic water bottle from Superfresh. Yes, I do realize the problem of plastic water bottles, but where am I going to put my mason jar at home? This isn't an isolated experience with the reception staff here; I felt the same discomfort waiting for the classes I'd attended in the winter as well as when I picked up my wallet after leaving it one day (oops!). While I was greeted, I never felt welcomed.Listed in: Passport to Prana - Checking…
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Review from Laura C.
Toronto, ON
Updated - 5/6/2011
My first Passport visit of the season!
Maybe I've been to too many yoga studios over the last year, and I've been really picky about the studio and the instruction and I have really come to like the Moksha series. That being said, this is not what they do here.
I don't recommend the Hot Hour for beginners at all. There is no demo at the front, and is purely instructional. You'll need to follow the folks in front of you, and if you don't know what a Chatarunga is, you might hurt yourself trying to look at others while doing it.
I'm always nervous about beginners doing yoga because if the teacher is not step by step going through the way to get into a pose, one might hurt themselves, but they don't always realize it.
Kula is different from the other studios. They place music. Instructors like to have fun. You go into the room and there is chit chat before and after. The room doesn't get as hot as other hot yoga places.
And today, we did partner work. We were asked to partner and help the other person get into a handstand.
The point was to show how we can push ourselves to the edge. But I was so scared to see anyone get injured, and remember you signed a waiver when you first came into class. I'm just saying.
I would really suggest as a beginner to yoga, check out a regular Ashtanga, Hatha, Moksha or Bikram series type classes so you can get some consistency and understand the poses before coming to a class here.
If you're already well versed, you're in for a treat, because this is something different and a nice insert into your regular practice.Listed in: Om.........Namaste
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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8/4/2010
Yay! I *am* a fan. I was really hesitant at first, but really enjoyed the Hot Hour here.
It's very… Read more »
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Review from Jennifer K.
Markham, ON
Updated - 1/23/2011 4 photos
Coming back to Kula Yoga for a revisit using my Passport to Prana ... and I am still a FAN!
Now Kula Yoga's website does allow you to reserve a spot in one of the more popular classes, so you won't be disappointed. But as a Passport user, this is not an option but at least I can check if my favourite restorative class is full or not.
Sunday 3:00 class has 4 spaces left when I checked online at 2 pm. So me and my friend got there by 2:30 and secluded 2 spots. This class is now a Reiki Restorative. Basically it is still a restorative class but there is a little Reiki treatment while you laid there in your poses.
Love the class since I was just laying down with my eye pillow for almost the whole 90 minutes... there are 3 staffs to a ratio of 17 students that help us with adjustment and made sure that we are laying there correctly... SWEET!
Love the instructor playing the harmonica and singing at the end of the class... that is really calming and different...
Sigh... it was so heavenly and peaceful... OMMMMMMMMMListed in: Yoga Studios I visited in…, Passport To Prana 2010, Some like it HOT! Or They are…, A Day in The Annex!
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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12/1/2009
Kula in Annex is another Yoga Studio that I visit with my Passport to Prana card!
I went on Sunday at… Read more »
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Review from Julia L.
Toronto, ON
5/25/2011
I've been to this studio a few times, mostly for workshops and once for a Reiki Restorative class. For the most part, everyone has been incredibly kind and friendly, and I've felt very welcomed into the space. The word "kula" loosely translates to "community" in Sanskrit, and I definitely feel that vibe at this studio.
The practice room itself is large, bright and spacious. I love that there are a number of props available - more than enough for every student - which means you don't have to rush into the room to stockpile a hoard of blocks and straps. As others have mentioned, however, the change room can get a bit crowded.
Although I can't speak much to the classes and instructors outside of my direct experience, I really appreciate the variety of classes that are offered here - both in terms of yoga styles as well as the schedule itself (I haven't seen many studios offer a 10pm class!). Prices seem quite reasonable; a drop-in class is $19 or $14 for students. If I lived closer, I would probably frequent Kula much more often. Unfortunately, I'm limited to dropping by every once in a while for a workshop or occasional class. Speaking of workshops, there seems to be a really amazing variety offered here, which is fantastic for inquisitive students or yoga teachers.
If you have a Passport to Prana, or are simply looking to get into yoga or try a new yoga studio, by all means try Kula!
Finally, for anyone who has never practiced yoga before and/or is concerned about "chanting"/"new age" stuff, etc., it should be noted that for the most part, this is an Anusara-inspired studio. One of the main characteristics of Anusara yoga is the opening invocation, which is a type of mantra that everyone chants at the beginning of class. Just something to keep in mind! -
Review from yyz a.
Toronto, ON
2/8/2011
Even if you think you're not into the chanty mantra side of yoga this studio will change your outlook on that and you will leave feeling like a very special individual.
The room isn't overly hot, but hot enough to work up a sweat and every teacher I've had here has truly cared about the experience of every students class.
There are a great variety of teachers - each with different personalities and styles so whether you want a challenging class or a gentle uplifting class you will find it here.
The room is really pretty.
This rating loses one star because the changerooms are quite small and always totally packed. -
Review from Wendy H.
Toronto, ON
9/29/2010
After months of lollygagging about, I thought it might behoove my buttocks to add some semblance of physical activity back into my life. And thanks to my Passport to Prana (which allows yeh to take a free yoga class at a beefy number of studios across the city), not only could I dive back into Yogz, but I could do it practically for free!
So I made use of my gelatinous digits, jumped on the P2P website and chose destination #1: Kula Yoga. Why? Because it was a mere 11 minute walk away. The exorcism of laziness takes time, you see.
Their website gets immediate points. Easy to navigate, an up-to-date weekly schedule AND you can secure a spot in your favourite class. I chose a 6:30 Basic Flow, put on my rain gear and puddle-splashed my way to Brunswick St.
Inside, ladies were smiling and hugging and cheek-kissing and giggling. This meant either a) the previous class was REALLY GOOD, or b) there is a close-knit sense of community at Kula. I feel like it was a bit of both.
My Passport to Prana was accepted graciously and easily; reception was incredibly friendly. I rented a mat ($2) and made my way to the studio.
The space is a nice size. Candles were glowing all around the room and a wide array of students came to join (quite a few men - one who was maybe 80-years-old!). Since the class was small for its timeslot, the teacher (Josie) was enthusiastic about trying some new things while we focused on the neck. She seemed to know what she was talking about, although "Talk" is a key word here. I don't mind a chatty teach but in case you do, take note. Her style is more like Mother Earth Mama Free Love, rather than Here Are The Poses, You Should Do Them.
The class was nice, a good re-introduction after months of no activity. The one downside was partner posing (for 2 exercises) - which, call me a product of a sterile society, but I like some personal space between me and strangers. I'm not tooootally comfortable with putting my head between your legs as I do a half handstand against the wall, maybe I'm just a prude. But really, whatever. I did the poses, and I live to tell the tale with no trace of embarrassment.
Coles Notes Version: Very friendly, nice space and great class selection. Also nice & close to Sobeys, where they sell Odwalla, which I sometimes crave.Listed in: OK Fine, Maybe College Street…
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Review from shyni y.
1/13/2011
This where I first experienced yoga. I bought a coupon from Living Socials giving me unlimited access to this studio. They offer the same deal as an introductory for those who are new to yoga.
Until that fateful day, I didn't know anything existed above my favorite bakery.
It's a wonderfully kept studio.
When you walk up the stairs you smell that woodsy smell that is strangely calming. It's clean and inviting. You see rows of towels and mats you can rent if you need.
I love the variety of classes here - from restorative to hot yoga, to acupuncture and various classes to meetings to share your philosophies... there is a real sense of community here...it really provides that community feeling.I fast became a regular for the whole month, and sulked on days when I couldn't make it.
I love that you don't have to be fully equipped to be here; the blocks, straps,mats and pillow and whatever else you may need, they have here for your usage. There is a focus in not pushing your body too far; the postures should not be uncomfortable, the legs should not lock; there are blocks, straps and pillows to give you the support you need to do each posture.
The teachers here are very holistic and I enjoyed being led by almost every one of them. What I regret was that they focus so much on the sense of community and to teach the Anusara philosophy that they often forgo correcting your postures, which is the most important aspect in teaching beginners without a clue. However, they certainly make you feel like a whole new person as time passes....
I love this place for the variety and the love the community it creates but I feel that they need to focus on the posture corrections as well - then it would be perfect.Listed in: Deals I tried.
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Review from Steph L.
12/29/2010
I had no idea there was a yoga studio beside Future's bakery.
After realizing that this studio was right beside Futures, I wanted cake.
I went into Futures but then decided I should go to Yoga first.
I arrived early for a Hot Hour class. The regular teacher was not there and there was a substitute.
There wasn't much to do if you arrive early. There is only one large room so you have to wait by reception if a class is still going on. While I waited I talked to the staff about the classes offered, the live music classes seemed really cool.
After the restorative class was done, I went to relax in the studio. The studio can fit a lot of students. There are about four rows, I was in the third row center.
I really couldn't see anything at all. As a newer person I found it a bit annoying. I was able to follow because of the verbal instructions, but I wished I could see the instructor. This substitute did not make any adjustments to any of the students.
The flow of the class was very easy and the moves were not advanced. However, you had to know the names of the moves or hopefully your mat neighbor was someone who knew what they were doing. There was a lot of folding... I feel very.. bendy.
After the class, everyone dashed to the change room. No lockers or cubbies. The change room was tiny and cramped. I collided with the girl next to me which is slightly awkward since she was sorta naked.
Anyways, it's a nice studio that's full of students using their OSAP to buy Lululemon. -
Review from Kathleen B.
Toronto, ON
2/7/2011
I love Kula. i've been doing yoga all my life but nothing has made it mean so much to me or made me feel the positive effects like Kula has. i'm not so into the "om"ing and chanting and "hippy dippy" side of yoga but Kula has shown me the value of even that!
the space is clean and smells good. they try to be environmentally friendly in many ways including providing cloth towels instead of paper to dry your hands. at first it was weird that you have to scan yourself in with your barcoded pass into the reader, but now i like it; it's faster and you can see on the screen how many passes you have left or when it expires.
kula's teachers have all been awesome. i have never done a hot class so i can't speak for those but i would say 9/10 times i've left kula saying "yep, i would pay $19 for that experience" which is what it would cost if you paid for each class individually.
and that's the main downside about Kula for me- the price. i can't afford $169 a month for a pass. so far i've managed with their introductory $30 for 30 days deal, and now a 10 class pass that was on sale in december that i'm trying to make last a while.
if i could go to as many classes a week as i wanted here's what i would choose:
monday @ 6:30-8 Basics flow with Josie
tuesday @ 6:30-7:30am hour flow with Jen
wednesday @ 5-6 hour flow with Sonja
thurs @ 6:30-7:30am hour flow with Jen, 6-7 powerhour with Josie *fave!
fave teachers Josie, Jennifer, Elyse (substitute)
no mat storage. $2 to rent a mat/towel. $2 for a glass jar if you forget your water bottle. -
Review from Janna S.
11/10/2010 1 Check-in Here
I used my Passport to Prana card to attend a live music yoga class here last week. I've never had a yoga class with live music, but this one was great! The regular instructor was away but the substitute was AWESOME! She took the time to adjust and address each and every student several times throughout the class.
I especially appreciate instructors who do this; it demonstrates attention to detail and care for the students. I used the props here throughout the class, especially the foam blocks. I felt like I learned a lot in just one class - instructor feedback means so much!
The live music was really wonderful, although I'm amazed the guitarist could play without stopping for so long. What a treat - I wish more classes included live music.
The studio itself is great - not too crowded and I appreciated the well-ventilated space. Change rooms had no locker so I had to put my backpack beside the front desk, which seemed safe enough. -
Review from Tara A.
1/22/2010
I have to admit, I am shocked this place is so popular. I have a few friends who chat with me about this place often and tell me its great, so when ladies night rolled around on Tuesday, we went to go see this place for ourselves.
Upon entering, it was a cluster of unorganized chaos. There was a class ending, a class arriving, people were trying to pay, the change room which, pretty as it may be, could comfortably probably hold approx 15 people was being crammed with 50 + people. I shook off the initial scatterness of the space went to meet my friends in the room where they had placed a mat. I was hoping for a few minutes of just laying and being still in a quiet environment but instead I was greeted with a bustle of people joking and laughing and talking about their day and definitely not keeping the peace.
Mind I reminder you, yoga, by definition is supposed to a state of perfect spiritual insight and tranquility. This was anything but tranquil.
Then, just before the class is about to start, they rearranged everyone. Let me point out, there were 50 people CRAMMED into a tiny space. Well wouldn't it make more sense to ask the experienced people upon arrival to place their mats at the front of the room and let the newcomers know to place their mats towards the back? It was absolutely absurd.
when the class started, there was someone playing music in the corner which I actually really enjoyed... until the instructor started talking. She is a jokester which I really appreciated but she spent more time talking about tulips coming out your ass and let me tell you, I have a hard time finding inner tranquility when i have the visual.
I left with one of my girlfriends 1 hour into the class. What was the best part of the night was when the receptionist asked me if there was a problem and I told her it was way too crowded in there to concentrate, her response was simply, "I hope you feel better."
This place just wants money. they are about quantity, not quality. They are about making an extra buck more than about allowing someone to have an experience with them.
Too bad, I had high hopes for them.Listed in: The shamefuls of Toronto
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Review from Giselle g.
Toronto, ON
10/21/2010
I went to Kula's restorative class. I like restorative yoga classes because it's less about exercise, and more about lying on the floor and relaxing.
I used my passport to prana card and found every staff member there to be very friendly, welcoming and helpful.
This restorative class was- how can I put this nicely? -flaky.
There was a women there handing out new-age tarot cards and if we wanted some reiki done on us we were to leave the card on the edge of our mat. How could I say no?
As I was lying with my eyes closed I felt an odd tingling feeling go up my arm. That was probably the reiki.
There was also some chanting at the beginning of class. More chanting than I am comfortable with. But I guess some people like that sort of thing.
As for the yoga poses, they were very nice, no problems there. So in conclusion, I would be more likely to go to the restorative class if they left out the new age stuff. But if you are looking for that kind of experience Kula is the place for you.Listed in: Yoga for the Lazy
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Review from Stephanie C.
Toronto, ON
12/23/2009
The second stop on my journey towards yoga nirvana was Kula.
After our painful experience in an intermediate Ashtanga class (please read my review of Yogaspace http://www.yelp.ca/biz...), my friend Jen and I decided to go back to the basics with Kula's Basic Flow. We would still get a good workout but we wouldn't be crying in agony within the first fifteen minutes of the class.
It was 9:00 am on a sunny Saturday morning. This would be the time where my eyes squint open at the morning light peering into my bedroom window, instead I was squinting and yawning on my yoga mat. The other nine ladies in my class were doing the same.
In comes our teacher Jen with her positive energy, immediately greeting and talking to us. Before she began teaching, she asked us if we had heard of the avant-garde music composer John Cage and briefly explained about his infamous 4'33 concert. What does John Cage have to do with yoga? Apart from the obvious topic of appreciating silence, not much except for the fact that we had a kick-ass teacher. Jen was friendly, encouraging and personable, all great qualities to find in a teacher. Plus her music selection helped us get into the mood of working out: instead of playing the usual ambient music, her mix included R&B songs by Jill Scott and (big points here) Stevie Wonder.
After a few minutes of meditation, we began our session which lasted for an hour and a half. Again, my entire body endured another great workout to the point that my arms shook, but it was an easy class to follow. Since we were a small class, Jen was able to focus on each of us and corrected our poses. She offered good tips and more importantly, she encouraged our hard work, which in turn, made us (at least, me) work harder in our moves. The final ten or so minutes was the restorative period where we lied on our mats to rest and meditate, our eyes closed with a small pillow of lavender placed over them. That part was very soothing and being a fan of doing lying down on a yoga mat doing absolutely nothing, I loved it.
Would I return to Kula? Yes, I would. The room where the class was held was a good size, enough to hold fifteen people comfortably. The change rooms, washrooms and showers are all very clean, and the receptionist was friendly. Since trying out Kula, I've heard others comment on how great this studio is so I'll definitely keep them in mind for the future.Listed in: Finding My Yoga Nirvana
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Review from Abby R.
Toronto, ON
8/14/2009
I have to say - I was quite impressed with Kula. This is only the 2nd studio I've visited in the city outside of my regular studio (which no longer exists and which I haven't been too since 2005 - eek). I came here for a 1 hour Flow class.
First, the decor was nice and yoga-ish. They do a number of eco-friendly things which I was impressed with. Their choices are represented in the structure of the studio ex/ heating choices, floor materials), their purchasing power (ex/ not supporting the plastic water bottle industry) and their classes (ex/ Karma class proceeds go to charitable organizations).
The teacher - Sonjia, was pure awesomeness. She started the class off with a quote about mindfulness, and was able to apply it to the yoga class. She fostered a warm, welcoming, caring and safe space for the class. She explained things well, was considerate of your experience, and was friendly. I appreciated her because I do find that it's hard to find the perfect yoga teacher that you can trust in your yoga journey (God, could I sound any more therapist-y?)
The other (few) students were also great. I was a bit surprised actually. This studio offers a hot yoga practice, and thus far my experience of hot yoga has been a bit competitive. So even though I did not attend a hot class, I expected it to have the same feel as bikhram. It didn't - it felt like a community and that allows new students who stumble and fall to still feel comfortable and not judged.
Overall, I could totally see myself as coming here regularly despite the distance from my place. Good job Kula! -
Review from TJ A.
Toronto, ON
3/19/2011
I come on Saturdays only for the karma class (which means it is just $5 and the money goes to a charity they choose). The teacher, Ana Maria, is unbelievably sweet. The studio is large and sunny and beautiful. The class is always very good, very full of people. Change rooms are small and packed, pretty much the only negative about this place besides the high prices of non-karma classes (which really is typical of most yoga places). Shower doors are cloudy glass, mostly see through, which I don't mind terribly but I've been to the class with friends who didn't want to shower because of it. This place doesn't have Bikram yoga unfortunately (my favourite) but still very enjoyable and a good studio!
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Review from Amanda S.
Toronto, ON
1/13/2011
Very relaxing atmosphere. The decor and furniture are modern and cleanlined. The instructors that I had were very inspiring, also helpful for beginners. I took a couple of regular and hot yoga classes. The hot yoga classes were a real workout and I would totally reccommend coming here for your first time.
From reading the other reviews, I can agree that a couple times that I was there, the yoga space was pretty cramped, but not to the point that it was uncomfortable.
The changeroom definitely has to be updated, though. It's very small and seems to only comfortably hold 20 people. I, however, am not uncomfortable if someone is an inch away from me and fully naked. Depends on what you're comfortable with, I guess.
Nevertheless, great place in a great area. -
Review from Kenning N.
7/10/2010
Wise, attentive teachers practicing a wide variety of styles.
Classes start as early as 6:30. The facilities are by far the most spacious, clean and bright of any yoga studio I have ever used in Ontario or California. Kula's pleasant staff and absolutely gorgeous facilities help make your journey to yoga a great experience. The only thing you need is the gumption to hold that pose a moment longer every day.
The 6:30am Hatha is a great way to bring a conscious start your day.
The 9:30am Vinyasa is a wonderful, high energy, ab-burning experience.
Two small limitations deserve mention: the Go train *will* pass during your class, I use this as an opportunity to get deeper into the flow, others may find it slightly disruptive. Also, while there are good variety of styles, the majority of the classes are held in the hot room, so be prepared to sweat.
