This town was in serious need of a Yoga Studio. Luckily for us, Dani Owens, owner and founder of The Yoga Bar here in Waco, provided. Yoga as a practice helps to improve flexibility, balance, strength, better posture, better sleep and provides excellent relaxation. The Yoga Bar offers Hot Yoga and regular yoga at their adorable studio in downtown Waco, Texas.The Yoga Bar is a brand new Yoga Studio located on 8th and Webster in downtown Waco. As uncomfortable as it may be to try something different at a new environment, I promise The Yoga Bar is worth it. As soon as I walked in, I was delighted by the peaceful yet cheery decorations and knew this place would be right up my alley. I was greeted by Dani Owens herself who was so warm and friendly towards both me and my friend. I got the feeling that she really cares about her customer's experience. 

When I walked into the studio itself, I laid out my mat and started right into the class. As my hour long class continued, I found myself more and more relaxed and centered while still feeling like I was being challenged. The people in the class varied from sorority girls to Waco moms to business men. It was a completely non-competitive environment and everyone was able to go at their own pace. I didn't feel judged when I needed a break and rested in child's pose. The instructor had an emphasis on listening to your body and working at your own personal speed. Other studios I have visited in the past have not been so friendly. 

My favorite part of the class was at the end. We had a few minutes to simply lie down on the mat, close our eyes and relax. This is fairly standard of your typical yoga class, however what made the experience so special to me is while relaxing, the instructor came around and laid a cold towelette soaked in lavender water over your eyes. If that doesn't sound like heaven, I don't know what does! It was so calming and really allowed me to unwind. 

Dani Owens studied Apparel Merchandise at TCU, and was a member of Zeta Tau Alpha. When returning home after graduation, Owens said that she moved to Waco to pursue her dreams. Dani started practicing yoga in college and recommends that it's a great time to start. 

"Practicing in college is good because it focuses on getting yourself centered and keeps your stress manageable," Owens instructs. 

When asked what advice she has for people just starting out with yoga, she suggests, "remember that your body is your best guide. It is your practice. Focus on yourself and practice." Dani says her favorite yoga pose at the moment is the Tree pose because it helps balance and is grounding. 
Another great thing about The Yoga Bar is that the first class is free! You can sign up for a course online at theyogabar.org and set up the time that works best for your schedule. It's suggested that you bring your own mat (they are also available at the front desk for rental), water, clothes that are you are comfortable sweating in and has little restrictions to your body movement. 

I had an incredible first experience at The Yoga Bar and can't wait till my next class! For more information and to sign up for your first class visit theyogabar.org or call 254-224-6893.