Get Bendy at Yoga Tree

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Yoga Tree Studio in Fullerton is located a few blocks West of Downtown on Euclid Street and is slightly hard to find. However, there is a big sign on Euclid located out front.

The studio asks their customers to park in the back behind the studio, on Euclid or the surrounding streets. It appears to be in an apartment complex. Once you open the gate, it is easier to spot in the courtyard.

The studio is set in a calm, serene environment in a garden setting. Yoga is practiced barefoot, so they ask that you take your shoes and socks off at the door. It is also suggested to bring a towel, and a sticky mat. Wear comfortable clothing for the session. It is also requested that perfume and aftershave not be used prior to the start of the class. Eat lightly or not at all two hours before class. The studio also requests that participants please turn off all cell phones and pagers.

They offer all types of classes including pre-natal classes, Restorative, Level I, and Level I-II yoga.

The Level I class focuses on the basics of Yoga. It is perfect for new and continuing students trying to get back in the game. The Level I-II class is for ongoing students who want to work harder at the basic poses as well as learn more advanced poses. It is not suggested for new and beginning students.

The pre-natal class focuses on poses that are relaxing and are designed to enhance your pregnancy and prepare you for your delivery.

The Restorative class focuses on poses that support rest and relaxation for the mind and the body.

The director of the studio is Mariana Militatru. She teaches in the Anasura style as well as body awareness meditation.

Nina Knight also teaches in the Iyengar style of Yoga with detailed attention to correct alignment and action in each pose. Daniella Twigg, a registered Yoga teacher with the Yoga Alliance was introduced to Yoga two years ago.

"I knew immediately that I wanted to teach and share this gift," Twigg said.

There are two styles of Yoga offered at the Yoga Tree Studio. There is Iyengar Yoga and Anusara Yoga. The Iyengar style of Yoga places a strong emphasis on correct alignment. It is vigorous, yet is adaptable to all levels of ability. There are props used to get the greatest benefit from the postures. Anusara yoga is a newer form of hath yoga. Anasura was influenced by the techniques of Iyengar. His fun and playful practice of yoga combines the universal principles of alignment, the inner body awareness, and the celebration of the heart. Anusara means to be in the flow, to follow your heart.

"I believe that Yoga helps us reconnect our body, mind and self in a way that brings balance both in our yoga practice and our lives," said Carolyn Matsuda, Iyengar style Yoga teacher.

The class size is limited to 12. They ask that newcomers come 10 minutes early to sign in. Membership or pre-registration aren't required except for the pre-natal class, since it is a specialty class. Classes can be joined at anytime. They do ask that you commit to attend the class once you have signed up for a session or purchased a class series.

Classes are offered in the mornings and evenings on Tuesdays and Thursdays. They have classes in the evenings only on Mondays, and Wednesdays and classes on Saturday mornings. They are closed on Fridays and Sundays.

The cost varies depending on which series you have signed up for. To drop in on a single class costs $15. To have a monthly, unlimited pass is $120. A four class series costs $52 and is valid for two months. An eight class series is $88 and is valid for three months. A 16 class series is $144 and is valid for three months. Checks and cash are the only payment available. Credit cards are not accepted.

If Yoga is something that interests you, you may want to give the Yoga Tree Studio a try. Whether you have never tried Yoga before or have been doing it for years, Yoga Tree Studio has classes for everyone. Yoga Tree Studio is located at 129 N. Euclid St., Fullerton, CA, 92832. You can contact the studio at 714-871-5081, or at mariana@yogatreestudio.com