How to Choose the Right Yoga Studio

Perhaps the most common question I get from those new to yoga is "How do I choose a good yoga studio?" This question is very much like asking "How do I pick the right nose?" (By pick I mean, of course, choose... not, you know, pick.) The answer is to choose the one that fits your face. We've interviewed a number of great yoga teachers and studio owners in the Toronto area, so we wanted to share some of what we learned in this quick guide to choosing the right studio.

The first step is to ask yourself why you are interested in yoga and what you expect to get out of it. Everyone's motivations are different and, lucky for us, Toronto boasts a rich and diverse yoga community that caters to a wide breath of interests. Perhaps you want a new way to stay in shape, as an alternative to the gym. Some purists feel that doing yoga only for fitness is like going to university only for the parties: you may get what you want but miss out on the deeper, more fundamental benefits. Others say that it doesn't matter because the deeper benefits of yoga will reveal themselves as you get deeper into the practice, regardless of your original motives.

Your motives, however, factor significantly in determining where and with whom you practice. If you're in it for the workout, perhaps the yoga class at your local fitness center will get the job done. On the other hand, if you want to plumb the spiritual and philosophical depths of this 4000 year old tradition, you will want to find a truly devoted teacher with a strong background.

Yoga is relatively new and unregulated in the west. In the east, however, the yogic tradition is an institution much older than most of the world's religions, with well established schools and methods. In many cases, teachers here will go east to study, which doesn't mean that the best teachers have studied in India, but it is an indication of one's devotion to the craft.

There is also one particular, and perhaps overly simplistic, method of categorizing yoga classes that can help you find the right fit: those meant to thrill and those meant to chill. Some classes are designed to provide a vigorous and often detoxifying experience, which can provide excellent cardio and give you that satisfying "yoga buzz." This is often the case with studios that offer hot yoga and is indicative in some styles of yoga, such as Ashtanga.

A word of caution: I know two people who have complained about being pushed beyond their limits in some yoga classes. One resulted in a minor back injury and the other in a pulled leg muscle. Many studios will ask you to sign a release letter before entering a class to absolve them of legal liability. Put simply, a teacher should always encourage you to do better but never to the point where you hurt yourself. In the end, you are ultimately responsible for your own health. Here's a hint: pain is your friend - listen to your body first and your teacher second.

At the other end of the spectrum, there are classes intended to relax and rejuvenate the body, such as restorative yoga, which are great for those looking to de-stress, improve the body's alignment and quiet the mind. While more relaxing, these classes may also leave you a little wanting if you were looking for something more vigorous. Remember that there's no reason not to combine the two. For example, you may want to combine some Hatha and restorative with a little Ashtanga for a complete yoga experience.

Another consideration is the teacher/student relationship, which is critical to establishing a long and healthy yoga practice. Even the best teachers can't help if you just don't click with them. Approach each new teacher with an open mind, but don't be afraid to ask questions. A good teacher welcomes a curious student. In the end, you'll know in your heart when you've found the right teacher.

There are also a number of more mundane things to consider when choosing a yoga studio:

• Are the facilities clean and well kept?
• Is there a safe place to keep your belongings?
• Are the staff helpful and attentive?
• Are you made to feel welcome or do you feel like you just crashed a private party?
• Is the studio conveniently located to either your home or work?

If you're anything like me, location is a big factor. I could procrastinate my way out of my own funeral, so the studio better be close at hand or I'll come up with any number of excuses to stay on the couch. That said, choosing the right studio and teacher could be one of the best things you could do for yourself and those around you. Choose poorly and you may never touch a yoga mat again. Choose wisely and you may just embark on one of the most physically, mentally and spiritually satisfying adventures of your life.

Share your thoughts. Have an interesting story about finding the right studio? Have some advice to share with others? Login and leave a comment, but please keep it positive - no names or horror stories.

In the end, the old saying is true: You will get out of yoga what you put into it. So make a choice, pick a studio and dive in with all your heart.

And for the love of God stop picking your nose! :)