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Moksha Yoga Danforth
Category: Active Life Fitness & Instruction Yoga Yoga [Edit]
372 Danforth AveToronto, ON M4K 1N8
Neighbourhood: The Danforth
(416) 778-7744
- Hours:
Mon-Fri 6:30 am - 9:30 pm
Sat-Sun 7:30 am - 6:30 pm
- Good for Kids:
- No
12 reviews for Moksha Yoga Danforth
12 reviews in English
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Review from Laura C.
Toronto, ON
Updated - 1/20/2012 4 Check-ins Here
Almost a year since my last review, I wanted to update.
The studio is still one of my favourite ones to go to. It's easy to get to (subway, and there is ample parking - free on Chester or the streets near it, and a large green P as a last resort).
They run the place well, although it can get crowded, I'm never annoyed. The quality of instruction is always very good (Michelle is one of the best). The studio itself has cork floors and they clean the floors and air out the studio before every class.
My favourite is the Level 2 Moksha class. MIchelle does a great job building on the foundations of the basic poses, as well as adding flows in between. I would say it's a true Level 2 class.
I sweat buckets! The showers, there are 2, and both has an invigorating watery soap thing which is nice.Listed in: Laura's Award of Excellence -…, Yoga Studios that I would take…
3 Previous Reviews: Show all »
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3/20/2011
Another one of my secrets I don't want to share with you all.
But as an avid Yelper I can't help it.… Read more »
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Review from Natalie T.
East York, ON
2/18/2012
This is a great location for Moksha but there are a few things. Note: the last time I was here was Summer, 2011 but I went a few times to this studio during their generous one week pass discount. I would give this more of a 3.5 star and it's mainly because of the studio and not of the quality of service.
VIBE
I love that people chill in the waiting room here after class. It's pretty cool. The members and staff are very welcoming.
The changing rooms are very small. Only two showers so if you're wash and run, you're going to have to wait.
THE CLASS
This is what probably used to be a second level apartment above a store and with the low ceilings and minimal windows you can tell.
The class is pretty hot but I've had hotter (i.e. Tula). That said, I still detoxify immensely. I feel the classes get really really crowded especially during peak times. It's why I'm hesitant to join the studio on the regular.
The instructors I've had are very good and give you options to adjust.
In the summer, I remember there was construction going on during a class. Not conducive to concentration but I think it's all over now and not the fault of the studio at all (it just sucked at the time).
OBLIGATORY CATCHY REMARK
I do hope Moksha would move on the Danforth or somehow expand to another location in the area, especially with it's level of service and quality of teachers. -
Review from Sasha M.
Toronto, ON
4/10/2012
Factory yoga at its best. The teachers have that veneer of soft-y melodic speak that trick yoga newbies into thinking they're evolved and experienced. Their teaching knowledge is actually very basic and they repeat what little alignment instructions they know over and over. If you're looking for a convenient workout, sure, Moksha will give you that. If you're looking for a teacher training program that cranks out unskilled teachers, Moksha is right up your alley!
They will also offer you cockroaches in the change rooms and hand you towels that are not washed with soap, so they reek because of all the leftover bacteria from the multiple people who had it before you. Their fans are caked with dust and they just wipe the floor down after each class with a fabric mop-- no disinfectant.
Sweaty yoga that will give you a tight butt! Sure! Sign me up for $18 a class! Would you like vermin with that? -
Review from s t.
Toronto, ON
2/15/2012
I tried my first class at the Danforth Moksha Yoga Studio. I'm recovering from a injury and I was nervous about returning to any activities outside of physio. However my massage therapist and physiotherapist both suggested I try Amanda's Yin Yoga Class.
I arrived early and had a conversation with Amanda before class. During the entire class, I was careful moving from stretch to stretch, but also could feel that the instructor was aware of myself and everyone else in the class. She would come around and adjust or make suggestions when appropriate.
It felt safe, warm, and relaxing.
Even with lots of modifications, I left with that amazing yoga high. -
Review from Jennifer M.
Toronto, ON
11/15/2010 1 Check-in Here
I have been to Moksha Downtown, Midtown, Markham and now Danforth and I see some similarity between them of course, but also some huge differences.
My ongoing complaint that there isn't any music, I am beginning to realize that this is a Moksha thing, and this evening the teacher did minimal adjustments, which I am also beginning to realize is a Moksha thing. But since this is now the closest hot yoga to my new home, I may be looking at this studio with a deliberate and necessary optimism...
I attended this evening's Moksha Flow with Heather at 6:30. This studio definitely had a very different vibe than the other Moksha's I have been too. The front desk staff was the nicest of any studio I have visited in Toronto yet, and were overwhelmingly warm and welcoming. Seriously, I felt instantly at home. Some studios the front door staff is busy checking their email, busy on the phone, gossiping, etc. Here both girls were friendly, chatty and almost excited that I came (you know what I mean?) Definitely a huge plus for a first time visit. My friend was meeting me for class, and she was waiting on the benches in the main room overlooking Danforth. Lots of seating to wait which is nice. The studio itself is on the third floor.
Teeny Changeroom here, with cubbyholes and no Lockers (I guess this is also a Moksha thing..). A little more accessible than Moksha Midtown but small, and only has two showers. Luckily, the class (although full) holds less yogis than some of the other studios, so that even through it is busy you have less bodies to compete for space with. I didn't use the showers as I could walk home (hooray!) So I cannot comment on shampoo, conditioner soap etc.
The class itself was good, not really challenging enough, but to be fair there were TONNES of first time yogis for some reason, so I assume she adapted. It wasn't very hot, more like Warm.. I generally like it a bit hotter. The teacher was good, she explained the poses very well, was really warm and friendly. Noticeably different was the patrons. Wide Variety of ages, shapes and sizes, and everyone seemed more "chill" that other studios I've been too. Usually people are buzzing in after work, bouncing up to leave class the moment the teacher says Namaste. Here everyone chilled a minute, rested, got up slowly. No buzzing about, no hecticness, must be the neighborhood.
Bonus Points
- Really nice staff. (!!)
- Filtered Water
- Nice Ambiance and Overall Vibe
- FREE APPLES. an entire bushel. awesome. (!!!)
- Warm Teacher Good Class with lots of Vinyasa (!!)
- Good Variety of Weekend Classes
- I can go home filthy and gross because it is so close.(!!)
- Everything was very clean.
- THE most organized shoe/shoerack/boots situation ever.
- Good location for TTC, super close to Chester Station
- Lots of Bicycle Parking outside and close to Carrot Commons.
Minus Points
- Only Two Showers
- Tiny Changerooms
- No Lockers
- After work classes at 4:30 or 6:30 (I have to leave work early or stay late)
- No Music
- No Adjustments
- Not really hot enough for me I like Hot!
Dear Moksha Danforth, If you could get Julia from Downtown to come teach an evening class here, I'd be forever most appreciative. But in the meantime, I am looking forward to meeting some of your other instructors.Listed in: Leslieville, Riverdale &…, Yoga Studios
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Review from Jenny T.
3/28/2011
Came here on a Karma night and loved it so much I paid full price to come back for a regular class. This was my first time at hot yoga and prior to this I've only done regular yoga... I don't think I can go back, hot yoga kicks regular yoga's butt IMO. It's such a relaxing detox that makes me feel so refreshed, rejuvenated and new after. It also has helped with my problem of feeling bloated all the time.
The Karma class I tried was only $5, a little packed but the benefits are what makes it worth it. The other class I tried was their Moksha Flow class, which was more difficult and not as relaxing but provided more of a workout. Make sure to bring water, a full change of clothes and a yoga mat if you have one to save money on having to buy stuff when you get there.
I usually go home to shower when I go to the gym or workout but I definitely felt that a shower was necessary after hot yoga - and luckily they have dividers between their showers stalls, that are enclosed and private! -
Review from Charlotte S.
Toronto, ON
9/14/2010
I've visited the downtown and uptown locations as well and Moksha studios seem to be run similarly, which in their case is a good thing.
I'm reviewing Danforth because I live in that neighbourhood and because I visit this location most often. The class cards are well-priced and don't expire (despite the disclaimer on their website).
If you're a yogi, you'll enjoy it. If you're not, you'll still enjoy it. I'm primarily a runner who practises yoga occasionally to promote a loosening of the muscles and joints I stress and tense while running and teaching boot camp. Specifically, I like to sweat because it makes me feel like I've done something for my body. And sweating for 90 minutes without running is pretty cool.
As a fitness instructor myself, I appreciate their instructors. They cater to all fitness levels and all levels of yoga practise, including the super-advanced, gumby types.
The studio is also in a great neighbourhood, so when you leave and are inevitably thirsty and starving, you won't be staring at a McDonald's. Walk to the Big Carrot and grab a smoothie or a great sandwich instead.
The change rooms are small and this place fills up like the classes are free (they're not), there are also only two showers and they more or less ask you not to take a "real" shower, i.e. one involving hair washing. So, if you happen to be taking a morning weekday class and have to go directly to work afterwards, this may not be your best bet. Unless you like sweaty hair.
Finally, their class schedule is pretty broad, offering morning, afternoon and late night classes. Most every one can find a time to visit. -
Review from Samantha S.
North York, ON
5/22/2011
This first time I ever tried Hot Yoga was at this location. It seemed to be very daunting at first but it was an excellent experience. The staff were friendly and knowledgeable. I appreciated the environmentally friendly environment and their holistic (rather than superficial) approach to yoga.
The have complimentary hair pins and hair-ties in the change room -- a huge bonus for a forgetful person such as myself! -
Review from Roma M.
4/6/2010
Moksha Danforth is one of the first few studios I visited with my Passport to Prana card. The studio is located in one of those leisurely parts of Toronto that make summers tiringly fun, and lazy sundays even more enjoyable.
I third the sign issue that both Jennifer and Starr noticed. I went by the studio about 3-4 times until I noticed it. If one doesn't have the address handy, superman vision, or a smartphone in their back pocket, God help them.
The staff at the front desk is very helpful, and eager to get you started on your new relationship with yoga. Their space is although, not abnormaly large, clean, convient and easy to get around. The only complaint I have is the changeroom facility, which is very small and also questionably dark.
The practice room is very large, bright and spacious. My instructor was also very keen to make adjustments and explain the details behind the positions, which is very much appreciated. I find this studio comparable to some of the better Moksha branches throughout the GTA.Listed in: Yoga Fire!
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Review from Jennifer K.
Markham, ON
Updated - 3/30/2010 4 photos
I decided to come and visit Moksha Yoga Danforth on a nice Monday afternoon for their Community Class at 2:00 PM.
It is an Anusara Inspired Reduced heat yoga class and the cost is $5 for 90 minute. This is the first Anusara Inspired class I ever took, as I don't really know what to expect.
From the website "Anusara is an elegant practice based on Universal Principles of Alignment and following a heart-centered Tantric philosophy. Expect detailed instruction in the alignment of each pose and transition, within a class that holds the spiritual purposes of praticing yoga as paramount. Reduced heat. Suitable for all levels."
Hmmm does it sounded a little boring when they talk about spirtual, philosophy and this or that?? And it is suitable for all levels... will it be another those chanting class doing easy poses?? I was in for a surprise.
The instructor is one of the best I ever have in any Moksha studios!! She is so patient and encouraging giving instructions in a calm and soothing voices. The class was challenging with non stop flow...with no breaks!! Though it is a reduced heat class, I was dripping in sweat... drip drip drip on my mat!! The poses are more challenging than their usual Moksha series. A mixture of hand balancing poses and a lot of hip openers. And of course I did learn something about muscle energy VS organic energy and trying to get their balance.... ok ok no more blahing...
Though the practice room was a little runned down! But I definitely be back for another CC Anusura Yoga class!Listed in: Yoga Studios I visited in…, Passport To Prana 2010, Some like it HOT! Or They are…, A Day at Greek Town!
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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11/12/2009 First to Review
Another studio I used my passport to prana for my free class!
When I drove by the studio, I just… Read more »
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Review from Starr W.
Scarborough, ON
1/17/2010
Once again...my Passport to Prana brought me to this studio. I've decided that my kind of yoga is the detox kind, where it is physically demanding but also relaxing. And Moksha is the place to go!
I went to the Scarborough location and I'm not sure which location is better. I agree with Jennifer that the sign for the studio is not very large. It's actually just a small poster on a door (the studio is on the second and third level). Someone driving by would not be able to see it...However, once I entered, the staff were very friendly and talkative, asking me if I've done the hot yoga before and answering my questions. The atmosphere was warm and inviting. The changeroom was decent sized but we had a packed class so it was quite busy. The are two showers and one washroom, clean and modern. The practice room was also decent sized but slightly claustrophobic (what you get for going to a popular but low-ceilinged studio). I enjoyed the class because Michelle, the instructor, was very helpful and a natural at yoga.
In general, I would recommend this place to anyone who enjoys getting a workout while detoxifying your body. But, be warned that some classes may be quickly filled up so get to the studio early! -
Review from Karen S.
11/17/2010
I have to say that I'm absolutely bias towards this location. My first happy memories of hot yoga originates here. Prior to practicing at this studio, I had only ever been exposed to this most sweaty of athletic endeavours at one other place. The difference is like night and day! The neighbourhood is swell (what's not to love about Greektown? Grilled calamari at Astoria, shopping at cute neighbourhood stores and more eating galore). Public transportation is easily accessible (love that Chester Station is just around the corner - literally). Lots of street neighbourhood parking if you bother to treasure hunt for those most precious of parking spaces. After having now tried a plethora of yoga studios, I now realize that both the waiting area, change room and studio is a bit small, but I still really enjoy the space. The yoga colours, decor and vibrant vibe are just so very different from the grey, drab and dare I say it, icky, atmosphere from the first hot yoga studio I ever went to. The indescribable vibe and energy at this studio is just so positive and inexplicably different from other places I've been to.
The teacher today was amazing and very helpful. She made some adjustments when I was struggling with a pose, then I noticed she came back when it was time to work on the other side and helped me out enormously again.
The studio space is one floor above the change area. I always feel like I'm climbing into someone's attic, which oddly enough, I find extra special. What can I say? I'm bias! There are two shower stalls in the women's change room. Watch out for the soap dispenser! Maybe I'm just short... one time when I pumped the dispenser, it squirted into my eye! Ow!! I also find that unlike other studios, people don't really shower here. I think it might be because most of the students live in the area and like Jennifer M. simply go home to clean up, so no need to hurry to the shower after.Listed in: Keeping it active
