canvas Dropcloth

By Joanne Schenker

Right in the middle of Woodbury’s little village, where the firehouse was recently renovated and the roads were re-paved and traffic was up the wazoo, is a beautiful bit of Nirvana. Yoga Oasis is a spiritual retreat that gives your body and soul everything it needs less the stress, daily “to-do” lists, and everyday worries of the world. Check it all at the door and strip down to the bare essentials because in this 110-degree room, you’re gonna sweat—for 90 solid minutes. But don’t worry, you’re not alone—you’ll be going through it with about 25 other people, who in no time will become your yogi friends. It’s Bikram Yoga, and it’s amazing, addictive, and life altering. Its benefits on the body are incredible—both inside and out.

Owner Mary Grace is a certified Bikram/Ashtanga instructor who will expertly guide you through the 26 postures with enlightening words of wisdom and gratitude. You’ll probably work harder than you ever have at any gym, but you won’t sweat in vain. Eventually you’ll become leaner, limber, and lighter in your mind (especially when the endomorphins kick in around 3 p.m.). The other instructors are excellent as well—if you’re lucky maybe you’ll catch James Onnikian teaching COGA (calisthenics/yoga), a high performance boot camp taught by this Golden Glove kickboxing champion. Don’t let the headstands and handstands intimate you. With time, you’ll be doing them, too.

In preparation for class, you’ll need a large towel (or two), a washcloth and a yoga mat. Don’t forget to bring at least two large bottles of water so you stay hydrated. The studio rents mats and sells water and other hydrating treats if you happen to forget yours. Dress as light as possible and drink lots of water before class, as well. Try to skip the caffeine before your practice, as it is dehydrating.

After the first class, you may feel tired. Very tired. That’s normal and part of the detoxing process. It may take a few classes, but you will eventually feel incredibly energized, and any aches and pains you might have had will probably melt away. It’s a moving meditation that will stretch your muscles, increase your range of motion, improve your circulation, and strengthen your core. Yoga Oasis offers a multitude of classes in Bikram, Ashtanga, and COGA. Teacher training, massages, and workshops are available as well. To get more information, please visit the website at www.yoga-oasis.com. For more information on the benefits of Bikram yoga, check out: www.bikramyoga.com.

Come share some sweat. You’ll be amazed at what your body can do. And your soul will thank you. Namaste.