And the winner is...

City Pages annual BEST OF issue came out yesterday, and the St. Paul Yoga Center was named "best yoga." It isn't technically in Minneapolis or 612, but I have to give props where props are due. I like that City Pages gave the studio kudos for being a welcoming environment for all types to genuinely deepen their yoga practice. The St. Paul Yoga Center offers a variety of class types (Iyengar, pre-natal, Vinyasa, yoga philosophy, pranayama, etc.) and hosts many interesting workshops. I encourage you to check it out... the first class is free.

Great yoga spaces (in the Twin Cities)

TaraNa
Located at 37th Street and Grand in Minneapolis, TaraNa is a gem. It is clear that this space was thoughtfully put together. You are greeted by the door with matching wave posters from the Walker Art Center. At the front of the room is a beautiful wood alter, Shiva statue, and fountain with fresh flowers floating in it! Throughout the space, antique Thai furniture and accessories are thoughtfully placed against boldly painted walls to create a modern feel with ancient charm. And all of their yoga props are the best of the best- no cheapie, worn bolsters here. I think TaraNa is the crème de la crème of yoga spaces in town.

YogaCenter of Minneapolis – Downtown Minneapolis Big Studio
In many ways, this studio currently serves as the heart of Minneapolis’ yoga community. Ask anyone who has done yoga in Minneapolis and they know about this space. Set in Minneapolis’ warehouse district, this space boasts exposed brick walls (painted white), clean wood floors, and a wall of windows overlooking the festive Monte Carlo Restaurant sign and the skyline of Minneapolis. My favorite part of this space is the huge, half wheel windows on the lime green wall. Many a sun salutation has paid homage to that window.

CorePower Yoga – Downtown Minneapolis Studios
Yes, it’s a little corporate. But remember, corporations do their research about what people like. And this time they got it right. From the exposed brick wall behind the front desk, to the earthy yet energizing color palette, revolving art work from local artists, ladies’ locker room stocked with all the necessities, slightly bouncy bamboo studio floors, and unparalleled boutique offerings, CorePower got it very right in this space. It is easy to breeze in after work for a class and pleasant enough to linger in after. They really have created a yoga community center at the downtown studio.

(sorry... couldn't figure out how to get an image out of a flash presentation)