The yoga room at Studio 206 is enormous, with mirrors, floor to ceiling soft white curtains, and abundant natural light. I go here for Hillary’s class, and even though I don’t live in Cville anymore, whenever Im back in town I look up her teaching schedule and always make time for a class. She is a truly gifted yoga teacher and practitioner known for her soothing voice and seemingly effortless movement. I feel lighter in body and soul after a class with her.
Kate S.
Place rating: 5 College Park, MD
Studio 206 saved my life! It sounds dramatic, but I really think it did. I was going through a rough patch and discovered Hilary’s vinyasa yoga classes at Studio 206. Her classes truly gave me the strength to get through tough times, and the beautifully lit studio loft became a safe haven for me for a few years. I loved ascending those stairs, slipping off my shoes into the little cubbies, and looking at the little inspirational artwork framed in the bathrooms. The prices at Studio 206 are reasonable, and I think they have even lowered their rates lately(which is unheard of!). They have different levels of plans, so you can get a monthly plan, or just do drop-ins, or really whatever suits you, and there is a student rate. They are constantly adding new classes: expanding their yoga offerings and really diversifying their dance classes. If you’re intimidated before your first class, whatever it is, your nerves will quickly dissipate. Beginners are always welcome and the teachers are skilled at making them feel at ease, while still keeping the class challenging for more advanced students. All of the teachers at Studio 206 deserve an A+(and Hilary gets an A++). They’re extremely knowledgeable and welcoming and have just the right attitude. It’s not like gym yoga, where they just push you to the limit without any concern for your emotional well-being. The Nia classes are so much fun, and every instructor has her/his own unique style and approach. It was uncomfortable at first, and I was very self-conscious, but it got better and better the more I tried it. But I only took Nia from time to time – my real reason for being at Studio 206 was the yoga. They offer all kinds of styles, from slower more restorative yoga to faster more dynamic(and sweaty!) yoga. I loved Hilary’s Vinyasa and, back in the day, Joy’s Saturday morning Power Yoga. I don’t live in Charlottesville anymore, but Studio 206 is probably what I miss most. I’ve taken a lot from that place and incorporated it into my own life. Props to Chris Friedman for creating such a wonderful place, where one learns to be healthy and fit while always being kind to oneself and accepting oneself completely.
