exercise Archives - Anali's Next Amendment

Starting a Home Yoga Practice

July 30, 2020March 26, 2020 by Lisa Johnson

Most of us in the United States are home now in some sort of self-quarantine or self-isolation due to COVID-19. If we go out, we are practicing social distancing. All of this in order to flatten the curve and not overwhelm the health system.

Right now, things are quite dire in New York and cases of coronavirus illness and related deaths are growing all over the country. It’s one of the scariest times that many of us have ever experienced.

Most brick and mortar businesses are currently closed. Yoga studios have gone virtual in order to continue teaching students. Following along with online yoga classes is a great way to continue your yoga practice. During this uncertain moment in time, we especially need to find ways to practice self-care.

Yoga has been shown to help fight stress, so if you’ve never practiced before, this is a great time to try. If you normally attend yoga classes, continuing your practice at home may be helpful. If you haven’t been active at all recently, before starting a new exercise regimen, take due care and you may want to consult a doctor.

So once you decide to start a home yoga practice, how do you actually do it? I emailed and spoke with six Boston area yoga instructors to give us some tips. Hopefully you can takeaway a few of these suggestions and put them to good use!

+ + +

Ali Singer, Founder: Yoga Hub (Boston, MA)

Make sure you’re doing something that you want to do. That it’s not a chore.

Pick a time of day that you can commit to so you won’t skip it.

Do the exact same postures or sequences every time. It gives you a framework for measurement. Otherwise you have no means of measuring yourself on a day to day basis. This way you can see how you change. Ashtanga yoga is the same series of poses over and over. Some people stay on this same series their whole life.

You can use a mirror to see that you’re stacking your joints correctly, but it can become a distraction if you’re looking for validation. It’s better to use video, so you can see if you are where you think you are in space.

Don’t hesitate to ask for help. Connect with yoga teachers that you may follow online. If you notice something on their social media feed and have a question, reach out and comment.

+ + +
For more yoga pointers from Ali, check out her free online course, which will be happening soon and will be updated here.

Ginette Mayas Samwel (Framingham, MA)

Clear space, clear mind. You need to project clarity in your thoughts, actions and space. It doesn’t have to be a big space at all, just clear.

Margie Kirstein, Founder: Yoga For The Spine (Dedham, MA)

I think people still need personal attention when starting a home yoga practice. One recommendation is to reach out to the studio where they were practicing to find out what style of yoga they were doing, if they want to keep doing that style. They could ask for suggestions if they want to try something different.

Also consider asking a yoga teacher to make up a sequence for them, taking into account their preferences. I sent my students a Yoga for the Spine home sequence that would be familiar and not too challenging. I also included links to yoga pose dictionaries.

Yogic Way of Life Yoga Asanas

Pocket Yoga Poses

Yoga Journal Pose Finder

Finally, if they can have a yoga buddy, that’s so helpful.

Malaika Bonafide of Ms. Bonafide Creations & Yoga with Malaika (Cambridge, MA)

Some of the tools I find helpful in my home practice are yoga blocks, which offer support. Think of the blocks as an extension of your reach. They can be used in downward facing dog under your hands or feet to bring the ground closer to you.

I also use a yoga strap, but an old tie will do the trick as well. You can use the tie in a seated forward fold as an extension of your hands as you reach for your feet/foot. Lasso the strap around your feet/foot pulling you closer.

Two face cloths or hand towels are helpful for padding under your knees if you tend to have knee pain or discomfort in your knees.

Be sure to listen to your body and know that everyday is different. And most importantly that yoga is a practice and most helpful if you practice as often as possible.

If you’re able to dedicate a space in your home to your practice, that’s awesome. If not, make sure that whatever space you do end up using for that moment is clean and free of clutter and work related items.

Turn off or silence distractions. Really dedicate this time to your self and your practice.

Meghan “Meg” Gaucher, Founder: Sweet Squeeze Events (Boston, MA)

There IS a home practice for everyone. Routine is important. The time you get on your mat matters. It will set you up for a good behavior to find your mat.

The space you set up is important. Find a quiet place where you can roll out your mat. Nothing fancy — just quiet and big enough to move up, down and around on your mat.

Susan Lovett, Founder: Hands To Heart Center (Boston, MA)

Don’t feel as if you have to do a daily 75-minute yoga class.

Maybe you’ll find 30 minutes or 20 or even 10 to move your body and breathe intentionally. Even a few minutes a day makes a difference, especially if you’re currently doing a lot of sitting or lying down. Sometimes, you’ll find that, once you start, you have more energy than you initially thought and you’ll want to keep going. Or not, Just do what you can.

Forget about setting up a perfect home yoga studio.

If you can clear a place on the floor and stand on something that’s not slippery, you’re good to go. It’s also a possibility to do some chair yoga. So, instead of stressing about having an immaculate, lovely setting, just get started. Of course, you’ll want to make sure that you’re not bumping into any furniture – or anyone else’s body – but if you have some room to move, you’ll be fine.

Find an online teacher who’s a good fit for you.

There’s so much free, online yoga right now that you’ll have a lot of choices. If you start with one teacher and don’t feel inspired, you can choose someone else. You might not find your perfect match, but you’re likely to find someone whose voice and teaching style are appealing to you. I like Yoga with Adrienne and she has free online classes!

You can be your own teacher.

You might start seated with some breathing and grounding. Then, you could choose any ways to move your body that are useful and/or interesting to you. Don’t worry if you’re not doing “classical yoga poses” or seamless sequences. The essence of yoga is breath, movement and stillness, focused attention and deep rest. Be curious about what sensations you may feel in your body. Know that it doesn’t matter what your yoga looks like and focus, instead, on what you’re able to notice.

Don’t judge yourself.

In a home practice, you may feel less self-conscious than you might in a studio. Take advantage of making any sounds that would feel right to you. Give yourself permission to be goofy awkward, messy. Wear your most comfortable pajamas, if that’s your mood. It’s YOUR yoga, do what works for you.

Quincy’s Bike-Sharing Survivor Game

July 30, 2020August 11, 2018 by Lisa Johnson

Competition between bike-sharing companies is heating up in Quincy. Back in late May, early June, I first started seeing beautiful bright yellow Ofo bikes popping up everywhere.

Soon after, I downloaded the app and looked forward to trying it out. A free week was even offered. I proceeded to never try it. Finding the bikes was very random and the timing never worked out.

Recently, I started noticing pretty lime green and yellow bikes around the city. Then I received an email from Ofo stating that they were leaving Quincy. That was quick!

An article on Quartz, states that Ofo, which is based in China, laid off many employees in North America and is dramatically scaling back its US operation.

Ofo told team members on a call today that it is “going into sleep mode” in North America. Chris Taylor, a former Uber employee hired by Ofo to lead its North American operations in October 2017, announced his departure from the company a few weeks ago.

Ofo confirmed the layoffs to Quartz. The company said it is not vacating the US, but is reorienting to focus on markets that will help it become profitable. Ofo plans to maintain operations in US cities including Seattle, San Diego, and New York, where it recently was selected to participate in a dockless bike-share pilot in the Bronx.

Well, no need to worry, because Lime is here in Quincy now. According to their website, they also have electric scooters and electric assist bikes.

We’ll see how long Lime survives here. Bike-sharing companies are all the rage now in the Boston area and all over the country in general. Hopefully, I’ll get a chance to ride a bike soon. I loved riding my bike as a kid and miss it.

Will Lime survive into the next season? Who knows? But if Lime leaves along with the falling leaves, there seem to be plenty of other bike-sharing companies ready to take its place.

Summer 2017: Free Yoga Boston

July 30, 2020August 12, 2017 by Lisa Johnson

While the listing of free yoga classes is year-round now, updating for the seasons, this is the 5th Annual listing of free yoga classes for the summer. Thank you to those who have taken the Free Yoga Boston Survey!

INTRODUCTION

Remember there are Meetups in the area to try out. Hands To Heart Center Yoga – Yoga for the People provides free yoga classes for people living with poverty and trauma in Boston. Check out their website and Twitter for class schedules.

Boston Medical Center has a list of affordable yoga classes around Boston. Make sure to look for community classes offered by yoga studios in your area. Many are offered at discounted rates. A growing trend is libraries offering free yoga classes. Just one more reason to frequent your local library!

+ + +

Here are some general suggestions for those of you who may be new to taking free yoga classes that are outdoors. Classes listed here are free or donation based.

Sometimes mats and props might be available to you, but don’t count on it. If they are available, there may not be enough for everyone. So bringing your own mat, water, towel, etc., is the general rule.

Double check if the weather is bad. Usually the organization’s Twitter, Facebook page and/or website will give an update if the class will be cancelled. Sometimes classes are brought indoors instead.

Most outdoor summer classes are over by the end of September or sooner. Based on my sources, most classes take place on the days listed, but there can be gaps in the schedule for certain weeks, so you may want to double check first before you go. Also, most classes last for an hour, but when I am not sure, I do not put an end time.

+ + +

The Free Yoga Boston Community on Facebook is updated most everyday and 1,400+ have “Liked” the page. Check each day for all sorts of yoga news in addition to free yoga classes in Boston and beyond.

Sign up for the Free Yoga Boston email list! When you are on the email list, you’ll be one of the first to know about changes and updates to this schedule. More than 350 have signed up so far!

Every once in a while, when I learn about one-off special yoga classes and/or related events that might interest you, I will send an email to keep you in the know!

If you know of other free or donation based classes in the Boston area that are missing from this list or are on the list, but need correction, please let me know.

This “Big List” is always a work in progress and will be updating for the fall. There will be updates, so if you have not signed up for the email list, keep checking back. Namaste!

+ + +

MONDAY

P.O. Fitness Classes ~ Yoga with Christine
Norman B. Leventhal Park (Financial District, Boston)
5:30pm – 6:30pm

This all levels class will strengthen the body, unwind the mind and uplift the spirit. Join us to breathe, move, stretch and relax in the sunshine. Start your week off with self-care to feel balanced and refreshed. Check the Facebook page for updates and cancellations.

Yoga
McGann Playground (Hyde Park)
6:30pm

Free yoga classes are offered all over Boston as part of the Boston Public Health Commission’s Summer Fitness Series. Classes end August 31st.

TUESDAY

Yoga
Medal of Honor Park (M Street, South Boston)
6:30am

Free yoga classes are offered all over Boston as part of the Boston Public Health Commission’s Summer Fitness Series. Classes end August 31st.

Sunrise Yoga on the Dock
Community Boating Docks (21 David G. Mugar Way, Boston)
6:30am – 7:30am

Anne Marie Costantino will help you begin your day with a supportive, gentle vinyasa flow that focuses on building postures from the ground up and exploring modifications. Anne Marie teaches an alignment-focused, slow flow style of yoga. With a focus on the breath, she guides students step-by-step into a pose and offers many modifications, making it a safe environment for practitioners of every level. These free yoga classes in Boston are offered in partnership with Athleta on Newbury Street through August. Class location is between MGH T stop and the Hatch Shell on the Esplanade and no parking is available. Please bring your own mat. For cancellations and updates, check their Twitter.

Yoga in the Park
Fitness in Cushman Park (Cushman Park, Green Street, Fairhaven)
8:30am – 9:30am

The South Coast community is keeping fit and staying healthy with free yoga classes through August 24th. Bring a mat and classes are weather permitting. See the Facebook page for updates.

Chair Yoga
Symphony Park (The Fenway)
10am

Free yoga classes are offered all over Boston as part of the Boston Public Health Commission’s Summer Fitness Series. Classes end August 31st.

Yoga
Franklin Square (South End)
6pm

Free yoga classes are offered all over Boston as part of the Boston Public Health Commission’s Summer Fitness Series. Classes end August 31st.

Yoga Classes at Boston Medical Center
Moakley Building (830 Harrison Avenue, Boston)
6pm – 7:15pm

These yoga classes are not just during the summer and are held indoors as part of the Program for Integrative Medicine & Health Care Disparities. Take the elevator or stairs down to the basement. The listing for this class has changed since I last updated this list. Before community members were welcome in addition to BMC patients and staff. Will try and confirm if still open to the community.

WEDNESDAY

P.O. Fitness Classes ~ Yoga Bootcamp with Emily
Norman B. Leventhal Park (Financial District, Boston)
7:15am – 8:15am

Kick off your mornings by burning a ton of calories, getting stronger, and having fun! The class includes a variety of exercises including body-weight strength training, bursts of cardio and endurance, and HIIT to really boost your workout. Come to break a sweat, but leave feeling relaxed and centered. Check the Facebook page for updates and cancellations.

Summer Yoga
Slocum’s River Reserve (Horseneck Rd., Dartmouth)
8:30am – 9:30am

Jeff Costa teaches yoga for the 5th consecutive Summer of healthy lifestyle programming in nature ~ thanks to Dartmouth Natural Resources Trust – DNRT and Hawthorn Medical Associates. There is a $5.00 donation and classes take place through August 16th.

Prenatal Yoga
Whittier Wellness & Fitness Club (1290 Tremont Street, Roxbury)
9:30am – 10:30am

Connect with your unborn baby at these prenatal classes, which are open to the public. You don’t have to be a club member to attend. From what I can tell, classes are held indoors and will be year-round.

Sunset Yoga
The Esplanade (Fiedler Field – Arthur Fiedler Memorial Head, Boston)
6pm

Challenge your mind and body while enjoying beautiful river views with class instructor Sara Divello. Pre-registration is strongly encouraged and please bring your own mat. Classes go through early September.

Seaport Sweat
Yoga with Jenna Hill (85 Northern Avenue, Boston)
6pm – 7pm

The Seaport District offers classes on Seaport Green through October. Sweat and flow with beautiful views of the city and ocean along to music provided by DJ Sprino. Bring your own mat and water and register for classes before attending.

THURSDAY

P.O. Fitness Classes ~ Yoga with Emily
Norman B. Leventhal Park (Financial District, Boston)
7:15am – 8:15am

Come flow into your weekend. This class will get your body moving and heart rate up first thing in the morning. Then enjoy a deep stretch and period of relaxation before starting your day. Check the Facebook page for updates and cancellations.

Yoga
Almont Park(Mattapan)
10am

Free yoga classes are offered all over Boston as part of the Boston Public Health Commission’s Summer Fitness Series. Classes end August 31st.

Yoga Classes at Boston Medical Center
Moakley Building (830 Harrison Avenue, Boston)
4:30pm – 6pm

FREE Summer Yoga
Boston Common Frog Pond (Downtown Boston)
6pm – 7:15pm

Power vinyasa flow classes will take place through August 31st and is for students of all levels. Challenge yourself. Release stress. Expand energy and tap into the beauty of trees, grass, and water at Boston’s most historic park. Sessions are held on the lawn adjacent to the Frog Pond Carousel. Weather related cancellations will be posted on the Frog Pond Facebook page.

FRIDAY

Lunchtime Yoga
Boston Harbor Islands Welcome Center (Rose F. Kennedy Greenway, Boston)
12pm – 1pm

Now through September 2nd, enjoy all-levels free yoga class in Boston with South Boston Yoga. Change up your lunch hour with a 45-minute yoga class. Bring your own mat and practice right on the grassy lawn. Space is limited, so get there early!

Seaport Sweat
Yoga with Jenna Hill (85 Northern Avenue, Boston)
12pm – 1pm

SATURDAY

Sunrise Yoga
Anthem Entertainment (Charles River Bistro, Boston)
8am – 9am

Master your downward facing dog this summer with Smooth Vinyasa instructor, Mike Massey! The group will meet at the Charles River Bistro, located directly across from the DCR Hatch Shell at 8am and walk to Fiedler Field as a group. Please bring your own yoga mat. Participants will receive 50% off of Jazz Brunch at The Charles River Bistro following class. Classes go through August.

Riverfront Yoga
Baxter Riverfront Park Amphitheater (100 Great River Road, Somerville)
9am – 10am

Relax and restore along the Mystic River with free yoga classes offered to you by Assembly Row. Advance registration is required. Day of registration will be available only if space permits. If it rains, the class is moved to 521 Assembly Row, next to DAVID’s Tea. Also check the Facebook page for updates.

Yoga in Franklin Park
Schoolmaster Hill (Roxbury/Dorchester, Boston)
9:15am – 10:15am

Breathe, enjoy, activate your body and mind with an all levels yoga. Classes organized by Linda the Wellness Warrior, who will teach with guest yoga instructors throughout September 17th. Look for signs directing you from the main park road. Parking in the small gravel lot across from the Schoolmaster Hill path and the golf course. If it rains, class will be cancelled, so check her Facebook page for updates. Classes are free, but $5 is a suggested donation to support Yoga For The People. The class location will change to the Valley Gates Parking Lot for September classes.

Family Yoga
Almont Park(Mattapan)
10am

Free yoga classes are offered all over Boston as part of the Boston Public Health Commission’s Summer Fitness Series. Classes end August 31st.

Saturday Seasonal Yoga
The Liberty Hotel (Charles Street, Beacon Hill, Boston)
10am

Back in 2009, The Liberty was one of the first hotels in Boston, or anyplace in the area for that matter, to start offering free yoga classes in the summer. They set the trend and still offer free classes in collaboration with Equinox. Guests of the hotel and members of the community are welcome to take the class for free. Classes are year round. In the summer, classes are outside in the courtyard. In the cooler months, they are indoors. Check with the concierge to find the exact class location, since it appears to change.

Island Yoga
Boston Harbor Islands (Spectacle Island, Boston)
10:15am – 11:45am

Now through September 3rd, enjoy all-levels free yoga class with South Boston Yoga on Spectacle Island. Unless you have your own boat, you will be taking a ferry. The 9:30 ferry is recommended, then meet at the Spectacle Island Visitor Center. You might want to make a day of it and go swimming or have a picnic. Just 15 minutes from downtown Boston, Spectacle Island is the highest point in the harbor, with spectacular views of the city and other islands. While the classes are free, you will have to pay to take the ferry.

SUNDAY

Vinyasa Yoga
Winthrop Square/Minot Rose Garden (St. Paul St. and Freeman St., Brookline)
8am – 9am

Classes take place through August 27th. Coolidge Corner Yoga and The Brookline Departments of Health and Parks and Open Space will be co-hosting a free all-levels Vinyasa flow in front of the rose garden. Sign up for classes on the yoga studio website and get updates on their Facebook page.

Donation Hatha Yoga
Arnold Arboretum near Dawson Pond (Jamaica Plain, Boston)
9am – 10am

Classes are provided by Branching Out Yoga, which is the brainchild of Jennifer Maniates. She offers these free yoga classes in Boston on the first and third Sundays of the month. Check the Facebook page for updates.

Free Yoga Medford
Medford Condon Shell Park (Medford)
10am – 11am

Lauren Farenga firmly believes yoga should be for All People and All bodies! That’s why she is offering free yoga every week to her community!

Island Yoga
Boston Harbor Islands (Grape Island, Boston)
11:30am – 12:30pm

Now through August 16th, enjoy all-levels free yoga class with Open Doors Yoga Studios on Grape Island. This style of yoga provides a space for all to challenge themselves, release stress, expand energy, and tap into the beauty of the Boston Harbor.

Yoga
Pinebank Promontory (Jamaica Pond, Jamaica Plain)
2pm

Free yoga classes are offered all over Boston as part of the Boston Public Health Commission’s Summer Fitness Series. Classes end August 31st.

Yoga For Runners
Boston Marathon adidas Runbase (855 Boylston Street, Boston)
6:30pm

These free yoga classes in Boston are vinyasa flow, and are on select Sundays are customized to bring balance to overworked muscles used when running. All levels of yoga experience are welcome, but you may need to register each week.

Winter 2016 – 2017: Free Yoga Classes in Boston

July 30, 2020December 4, 2016 by Lisa Johnson

This list has been updated a number of times and is current for Spring.

There are also free yoga classes being offered by a new group called Breathe Boston. They offer individual or group yoga and meditation classes. You can sign up for classes at their location or have them come to you for a private class in your own home.

+ + +

The Free Yoga Boston Community on Facebook is updated several times a week and more than 1,300 have “Liked” the page. Thank you! Check for all sorts of yoga news!

Sign up for the Free Yoga Boston email list! When you are on the email list, you will be the first to know about changes and updates to this schedule.

Every once in a while, when I learn about one-off special yoga classes and/or related events that might interest you, I will send an email to keep you in the know!

+ + +

If you know of other free or donation based classes in the Boston area that are missing from this list or are on the list, but need correction, please let me know.

This “Big List” is always a work in progress. There will be updates, so if you have not signed up for the email list, keep checking back. Namaste!

+ + +

MONDAY

Gentle Yoga
ABCD (North End, Boston)
10am

As part of the Coca-Cola Troops for Fitness program, the Boston Parks and Recreation Department is offering a variety of free yoga classes on different days and locations year-round. Most classes last an hour and schedules change every couple of months. For updates and cancellations, check Twitter and Facebook.

TUESDAY

Laughter Yoga
West Bridgewater Library (80 Howard Street, West Bridgewater)
10:30am – 11am

This is a seated chair practice, free and open to all. Even if you don’t live in West Bridgewater. According to a Wicked Local article, the yoga part of the class is the breathing. The class started on September 13th and was scheduled to last for eight weeks. However, according to the website, classes appear to continue indefinitely.

Yoga Classes at Boston Medical Center
Moakley Building (830 Harrison Avenue, Boston)
6pm – 7:15pm

These yoga classes are not just during the summer and are open to community members in addition to BMC patients and staff. They are held indoors and part of the Program for Integrative Medicine & Health Care Disparities. Take the elevator or stairs down to the basement. The classes are free, but there is a suggested donation of $5.00. Currently there is a flyer online [click here], but it is old. If the online flyer is updated, I will link to it here.

Free Beginner Yoga
Sonas Wellness (200 Weymouth Street, Rockland)
6:30pm – 7:30pm

Join Courtney Bell for a beginner Vinyasa class, where she uses her training to help students discover a piece of themselves previously thought unattainable. She works to strengthen the core and finding balance to help navigate life. It looks like this may be a new studio and classes are free for their first three months. Check with them to confirm.

Teen Yoga
Boys & Girls Club (Dorchester, Marr Clubhouse)
6:45pm

WEDNESDAY

Prenatal Yoga
Whittier Wellness & Fitness Club (1290 Tremont Street, Roxbury)
9:30am – 10:30am

Connect with your unborn baby at these prenatal classes, which are open to the public. You don’t have to be a club member to attend. Classes are indoors and year-round.

Gentle Yoga
ABCD (North End, Boston)
10am

Yoga For Men
Unitarian Universalist Urban Ministry (10 Putnam Street, Roxbury)
6pm – 7:30pm

Instructor Lucilda Dassardo-Cooper is a certified Iyengar beginning/intermediate teacher and a professional artist who has studied and taught yoga for more than 30 years. There is free parking and all levels are welcome. The class is donation based and free if you cannot pay. Questions: Lucildadcooper@gmail.com. 617-825-9760.

THURSDAY

Yoga Classes at Boston Medical Center
Moakley Building (830 Harrison Avenue, Boston)
4:30pm – 6pm

These yoga classes are not just during the summer and are open to community members in addition to BMC patients and staff. They are held indoors and part of the Program for Integrative Medicine & Health Care Disparities. Take the elevator or stairs down to the basement. The classes are free, but there is a suggested donation of $5.00. Currently there is a flyer online [click here], but it is old. The Thursday class starts at 4:30pm. If the online flyer is updated, I will link to it here.

Community Yoga
Unitarian Universalist Urban Ministry (10 Putnam Street, Roxbury)
6pm – 7:30pm

FRIDAY

Gentle Yoga
ABCD (North End, Boston)
10am

Relax and Renew Yoga
Harvard Ed Portal (224 Western Ave, Allston)
6pm – 7pm

Part of an ongoing series of classes presented by the Harvard Ed Portal and the Center for Wellness. Each class incorporates flowing, intentional vinyasa-style movements, stretches, and breathing practices. Modifications are offered to ensure the maximum benefit and healthy alignment. Classes are scheduled to start Friday, March 3rd and last through Friday, April 7th. Walk-ins are allowed, but advance registration is encouraged.

Mike Massey Yoga
Sustainability Guild (260 Washington Street, Dorchester)
7:30pm – 9pm

After being severely injured playing semi-pro football, Mike Massey required surgery. Trauma from the surgery resulted in depression. In order to beat his depression, he tried yoga. Now he teaches all over the Boston area. An enthusiastic student recommended his classes, so I have pieced together the information here. Check his Instagram for class updates. Double check the address of the class location.

SATURDAY

Complimentary Saturday Yoga
The Liberty Hotel (Charles Street, Beacon Hill, Boston)
10am

Hands to Heart Center Yoga
CityPOP Egleston (3195 Washington Street, Jamaica Plain)
11am – 12pm

Beginner level yoga classes for ages 16 and up take place through March. Classes are inclusive, accessible and inspiring. Yoga mats are provided.

Mike Massey Yoga
Sustainability Guild (260 Washington Street, Dorchester)
2:30pm – 4pm

Yoga Meditation
Thomas Crane Public Library (40 Washington Street, Quincy)
3pm – 4pm

Sahaja Yoga is a meditative yoga technique to help reduce stress and bring balance and well being to your life. This type of yoga focuses on meditation and is not a physical class, so you will not need a yoga mat. The classes take place take place each week through May. Sahaja Yoga sponsors free stress reduction and meditation workshops around the country as well as in over 90 nations around the world.

SUNDAY

Brewery Yoga
Night Shift Brewing (87 Santilli Highway, Everett)
11am – 12pm

These yoga classes take place at the brewery every so often. Take a look at their event calendar for confirmation and sign up! Kat O’Leary from CorePower Yoga teaches the vinyasa classes.

Yoga For Athletes
Boston Marathon adidas Runbase (855 Boylston Street, Boston)
6:30pm

These free vinyasa yoga classes on select Sundays are customized to bring balance to overworked muscles used when running. All levels of yoga experience are welcome, but you may need to register each week.

Save

Summer 2016: Free Yoga Classes in Boston

July 30, 2020July 17, 2016 by Lisa Johnson 2 Comments

Looking for free yoga classes in Boston? You’ve come to the right place.

Memorial Day weekend may be the the unofficial start of summer. The summer solstice is the official start of summer. But for me, once the 4th of July rolls around, then it’s truly summer. So here we are! In the heart of summer. Bring on the picnics, barbecues, trips to the beach and of course, lots of outdoor free yoga classes in Boston! This year class locations expand beyond the Boston area to the South Coast and includes Fairhaven.

While the listing of free yoga classes is year-round now, one for each season, this is the 5th Annual listing of free yoga classes for the summer. Remember there are Meetups in the area to try out. Hands To Heart Center Yoga – Yoga for the People provides free yoga classes for people living with poverty and trauma in Boston. Check out their website and Twitter for class schedules.

+ + +

Here are some general suggestions for those of you who may be new to taking free yoga classes in Boston that are outdoors. All classes listed here are free or donation based.

Double check if the weather is bad. Usually the Facebook page and/or website will give an update if the class will be cancelled. Sometimes classes are brought indoors instead.

Most outdoor summer classes start in June or July and are over by the end of September.

Based on my sources, most classes take place on the days listed, but there can be gaps in the schedule for certain weeks, so you may want to double check first before you go. Also, most classes last for an hour, but when I am not sure, I do not put an end time.

+ + +

The Free Yoga Boston Community on Facebook is updated most everyday and more than 1000 have “Liked” the page. Thank you! Check each day for all sorts of yoga news in addition to free yoga classes in Boston.

Sign up for the Free Yoga Boston email list! When you are on the email list, you will be the first to know about changes and updates to this schedule.

Every once in a while, when I learn about one-off special yoga classes and/or related events that might interest you, I will send an email to keep you in the know about free yoga classes in Boston.

If you know of other free or donation based classes in the Boston area that are missing from this list or are on the list, but need correction, please let me know.

This “Big List” is always a work in progress. There will be updates, so if you have not signed up for the email list, keep checking back. Namaste!

+ + +

MONDAY

P.O. Fitness Classes ~ Yoga Flow
Norman B. Leventhal Park (Financial District, Boston)
5:30pm – 6:30pm

TUESDAY

Sunrise Yoga on the Dock
Community Boating Docks (21 David G. Mugar Way, Boston)
6:30am – 7:30am

Yoga in the Park
Fitness in Cushman Park (Cushman Park, Green Street, Fairhaven)
8:30am – 9:30am

Kripalu certified yoga instructor Jeff Costa is helping the South Coast community keep fit and stay healthy with free yoga classes through August 23rd. Bring a mat and note that classes are weather permitting. See the Facebook page for updates.

Seaport Sweat
Yoga with Jenna Hill (85 Northern Avenue, Boston)
9:30am – 10:30am

The Seaport District recently added several types of fitness classes next to District Hall, including yoga. The classes started in August and go through October. You must register for the class before attending.

Yoga Classes at Boston Medical Center
Moakley Building (830 Harrison Avenue, Boston)
6pm – 7:15pm

Patagonia Practice
Patagonia (346 Newbury Street, Boston)
7:30pm – 8:30pm

Join Yoga Hub Founder Ali Singer, for an all-levels flow yoga class sponsored by Patagonia.

WEDNESDAY

Prenatal Yoga
Whittier Wellness & Fitness Club (1290 Tremont Street, Roxbury)
9:30am – 10:30am

Happy Hour Yoga
North End Park (corner of Cross and Hanover St, Boston)
5:30pm – 6:30pm

Join Yoga Hub Founder Ali Singer for a healthy way to celebrate the end of your work day with good-vibes and vinyasa yoga outdoors on the grass.

Sunset Yoga
The Esplanade (Fiedler Field – Arthur Fiedler Memorial Head, Boston)
6pm

Challenge your mind and body while enjoying beautiful river views. Registration is required. You can pre-register on the website (scroll down to the form) or register at the event. Class instructor is Sara Divello. Please bring a mat. Enjoy refreshments provided by Polar Beverages, CLIF and Stop & Shop. Classes are free, but donations are welcome! To receive up to date alerts for class cancellations or changes, text HFF15 to #51555. Classes go through early September.

FIT on the Garden *New*
Prudential Center (South Garden, Boston)
6pm – 7pm

MoveWith is the first teacher-centric fitness community that leverages the power of social sweat to get more people moving and loving it! Some of Boston’s best yoga and pilates instructors will be teaching classes through September 28th. You need to register before attending each class.

THURSDAY

Yoga Classes at Boston Medical Center
Moakley Building (830 Harrison Avenue, Boston)
4:30pm – 6pm

These yoga classes are not just during the summer and are open to community members in addition to BMC patients and staff. They are held indoors and part of the Program for Integrative Medicine & Health Care Disparities. Take the elevator or stairs down to the basement. The classes are free, but there is a suggested donation of $5.00. Currently there is a flyer online [click here], but it is old. The Thursday class starts at 4:30pm. If the online flyer is updated, I will link to it here.

FREE Summer Yoga
Boston Common Frog Pond (Downtown Boston)
6pm – 7:15pm

Power vinyasa flow classes will take place through September 1st (except for July 14th) and is for students of all levels. Challenge yourself. Release stress. Expand energy and tap into the beauty of trees, grass, and water at Boston’s most historic park. Sessions are held on the lawn adjacent to the Frog Pond Carousel. Weather related cancellations will be posted on the Frog Pond Facebook page by 4:30pm on the day of class.

P.O. Fitness Classes ~ Yoga Bootcamp
Norman B. Leventhal Park (Financial District, Boston)
5:30pm – 6:30pm

Yoga bootcamp will guide participants through a challenging vinyasa flow, building extra strength through bodyweight movements. Come to break a sweat, but leave feeling relaxed and centered. Check the Facebook page for updates and cancellations.

FRIDAY

Seaport Sweat
Yoga with Jenna Hill (85 Northern Avenue, Boston)
12pm – 1pm

Lunchtime Yoga
Boston Harbor Islands Welcome Center (Rose F. Kennedy Greenway, Boston)
12:15pm – 1pm

Now through September 2nd, enjoy all-levels free yoga classes in Boston with South Boston Yoga. Change up your lunch hour with a 45-minute yoga class. Bring your own mat and practice right on the grassy lawn. Space is limited, so get there early!

SATURDAY

Sunrise Yoga
Anthem Entertainment (Charles River Bistro, Boston)
8am – 9am

Riverfront Yoga
Baxter Riverfront Park Amphitheater (100 Great River Road, Somerville)
9am – 10am

Relax and restore along the Mystic River with free yoga classes offered to you by Assembly Row and Some.Yoga Studio. You must register each week for one of the 100 spots available. If the class fills up, wait list sign up begins at 8:30am on Saturday for any available spots. Anyone not checked in by 8:55am forfeits their spot and class starts promptly at 9am. Also check the Facebook page for updates.

Yoga in Franklin Park
Schoolmaster Hill (Roxbury/Dorchester, Boston)
9:15am – 10:15am

Breathe, enjoy, activate your body and mind with an all levels yoga. Classes organized by Linda the Wellness Warrior, who will teach with guest yoga instructors throughout September 17th. Look for signs directing you from the main park road. Parking in the small gravel lot across from the Schoolmaster Hill path and the golf course. If it rains, class will be cancelled, so check the Facebook page for updates. Classes are free, but $5 is a suggested donation to support Yoga For The People. The class location will change to the Valley Gates Parking Lot for September classes.

Summer Stretch
The Liberty Hotel (Charles Street, Beacon Hill, Boston)
10am

Island Yoga
Boston Harbor Islands (Spectacle Island, Boston)
10:15am – 11:45am

Join Ciara Clark for another summer of yoga and all-levels free yoga classes in Boston on Spectacle Island. Unless you have your own boat, you will be taking a ferry. The 9:30 ferry is recommended, then meet at the Spectacle Island Visitor Center. Space is limited, so advance registration is recommended. Even still, get there early! You might want to make a day of it and go swimming or have a picnic. Just 15 minutes from downtown Boston, Spectacle Island is the highest point in the harbor, with spectacular views of the city and other islands. While the classes are free, you will have to pay to take the ferry.

SUNDAY

Vinyasa Yoga
Winthrop Square/Minot Rose Garden (St. Paul St. and Freeman St., Brookline)
8am – 9am

Classes take place through August 28th. Coolidge Corner Yoga and The Brookline Departments of Health and Parks and Open Space will be co-hosting a free all-levels Vinyasa flow in front of the rose garden. Sign up for classes on the yoga studio website and get updates on their Facebook page.

Adult Yoga Program
Powderhouse Park (Next to the old mill, Somerville)
9am – 10am

Practice under the Somerville sun with yoga instructor Caity Colleen for an all levels fun Vinyasa yoga class. Sign up on the website. Reiki assists and invigorating essential oils will be provided during Savasana. Make sure to wear comfortable clothes. Classes take place through September 4th, except for July 31st. If there is bad weather, class will be cancelled, so check the Facebook page.

Donation Hatha Yoga
Arnold Arboretum near Dawson Pond (Jamaica Plain, Boston)
9am – 10am

Yoga on The Green
The Street (Chestnut Hill)
10am – 11am

All levels of experience are welcome at these classes offered by lululemon. Mats are available too!

Island Yoga
Boston Harbor Islands (Grape Island, Boston)
11:30am – 12:30am

Enjoy a gentle yoga class overlooking the Boston Harbor with classes taught by yoga instructors from Open Doors Studios through September 4th. Bring your own mat or towel and meet at the dock on Grape Island. Island yoga is first come, first serve. Bring your own yoga mat and towel. The 11am ferry from Hingham Shipyard will arrive at Grape Island right on time for the class. Walk-ups are available on a limited basis. Register to ensure your spot in the class!

Brewery Yoga
Night Shift Brewing (87 Santilli Highway, Everett)
11am – 12pm

These yoga classes take place at the brewery every so often. Take a look at their event calendar for confirmation and sign up! Kat O’Leary from CorePower Yoga teaches the vinyasa classes.

Yoga 101
Pop Allston (89 Brighton Ave., Boston)
1:30pm – 2:30pm

Join Yoga Hub Founder Ali Singer for this donation based class, so you can learn yoga fundamentals to start and grow your practice. Suggested cash donation is $10.00. Classes are now through August 21st.

Family Yoga
Pinebank Promontory (Jamaica Pond, Jamaica Plain)
2pm – 3pm

Join Yoga Hub Founder Ali Singer for an all-ages yoga flow. Beginners are welcome!

Free Yoga Class
North Point Park (Cambridge)
5pm – 6pm

As part of CRC’s Sunday Parkland Games, Karma Yoga Studio offers an hour long yoga class.

Yoga For Runners
Boston Marathon adidas Runbase (855 Boylston Street, Boston)
6:30pm

Save