Jiva Health Wimbledon is one of my new favourite yoga studios. It’s small (maximum of 18-20 students per class) but really easy going and friendly. I’ve been going to different classes since September 2014 and slowly gravitated to the Iyengar classes. For anyone who is not familiar with Iyengar, it’s a style of yoga focusing on alignment and posture so is great for my scoliosis! The teacher training course I’m doing is also Iyengar based so the classes are really useful for me and a great mix of challenge and relaxation!
The Studio:
The studio is on the first floor and there is a lovely little reception area when you come in. You can buy yoga mats, props and books and get information on classes, workshops etc. There are obviously toilets and a small changing room which is only big enough for a couple of students so most people arrive in their yoga clothes.
There is one room for the yoga classes which as I mentioned is not huge, but it does have a lot of wall space which is important in Iyengar yoga so even if the class is full, everyone will find a bit of wall and can do their headstands and handstands without falling over each other!
As the studio is close to the station you can hear the trains and the noisy road so you won’t get the complete peace and quiet retreat experience but you will probably not get that in many yoga studios in London anyway!
There is also a small treatment room and they offer massages, acupuncture, Gait Therapy and Efficient Breathing – none of which I have tried so far but might do in the future!
Teachers & Classes:
There is quite a mix of teachers and classes from Restorative, Pre-Natal and Mum and Baby Yoga to Ashtanga, Vinyasa Flow and Iyengar Yoga to name a few. There is also a class on Saturdays which is called Dynamic Yoga & Philosophy which I’m really intrigued about but haven’t actually made it to it yet as it’s at lunch time so not a good time when you have kids…
My favourite teachers are Indira, Peter and Ives who teach the Iyengar classes. All of them have their own very unique style and are extremely experienced. They will definitely challenge you but can also cope with any level of yoga experience and any medical conditions at the same date.
Location:
Great location if you’re commuting as the studio is directly by the station between Greggs and Timpsons, opposite Waterstones.
Not so great for parking but great access for anyone using public transport. And the best thing is you can combine it with a little shopping trip at Centre Court Shopping Centre!!
