★ 1

I’ve been to this yoga studio a couple of times. I was nervous at first because as a person of South Asian and Hindu heritage, I wanted to see how they incorporated the fact that they use a Hindu goddess in their studio name and logo. Overall, after attending, I felt open-minded to how they were practicing it so I followed them on Instagram and would have happily gone back. It’s expensive for my budget but I liked the vibe. I’ve also invited a friend from nyc to meet here and overall had good in-studio experiences. It’s been months because I just had a baby, but it was on my list to get back into when my life cooled down. Til then, I was happy following them on Instagram for now.

Yesterday, I saw an Instagram post they made involving a few women laughing at their attempts to pronounce Sanskrit words relating to yoga. I understand it was likely intended to be lighthearted, but the post made me feel really bad. Many ppl of South Asian descent experience having their names and cultural words ridiculed and it feels especially awful to see women laughing at Sanskrit words at a studio that is using Indian culture and Hindu imagery in their marketing! I followed this studio on Instagram to feel affirmed and encouraged, not to see posts about Sanskrit words being laughed at.

I left a gentle comment about how it made me feel, and was internally hopeful they’d think more about how that post might be perceived by people of Hindu or South Asian heritage. I was optimistic they’d be able to separate their initial intention from the result of their action. If they’d addressed it directly, I’d have been happy to go back. There were lots of ways to respond with openness and understanding. It’s possible that some people with my shared heritage might not mind hearing Sanskrit laughed at like that… but many do mind! And owning your actions means owning the results, regardless of intent. In my opinion, yoga studios that derive their branding from Hinduism have a duty to understand people who may feel like me.

Anyway, I checked today and they appear to have deleted my comment and blocked me on Instagram as their response. I think that response says a lot about their internal values and regard for people like me. So unfortunately I cannot recommend this studio any longer.

I keep thinking “how are they going to respond” to this. I am just so disappointed. Perhaps they’ll say I don’t come enough to have an opinion, or that I am overreacting or didn’t write a clear enough Instagram comment. I’m not sure. Personally, I think the only appropriate response is to figure out on their end, where the gap is, that this post and subsequent response have happened. I’m just so disappointed. I liked the studio.

Source: Google

★ 1

Been going for years. Just called to cancel a reservation I made because I had a work commitment come up unexpectedly, and despite giving notice many hours in advance for a midday weekday class that was less than a third full, I was told I would lose a credit from my account. Terrible customer service, and a really bad policy. I was also told I could not speak with a manager.

Likely won’t go back after almost a decade as a customer. Unfortunate

Source: Google

★ 5

Ive practiced and taught yoga all over the world and truly have never loved a studio more that SYJ. The teachers are incredible, the people are warm and I feel like SYJ actually practices what they preach which is incredibly rare. So grateful this place exists, a true gem,

Source: Google

★ 5

Hands down the best. The best instructors, the best studio space, the best vibe and holistic culture.

Source: Google

★ 5

This studio is truly special—a warm, inviting space where you can step away from the outside world and immerse yourself in your practice. Each instructor brings their own unique style, creating a welcoming and supportive environment for all. As a new resident of Norwalk and a former New Yorker, I feel incredibly grateful to have found this studio—it beautifully combines the best elements of my favorite studios in the city. With abundant natural light and cozy heated floors, every session here is an uplifting and rejuvenating experience.

Source: Google

★ 2

SYJ used to be my hands-down favorite studio but the Owner refuses to separate leading a yoga class with preaching ideology. It has been extremely disappointing to look forward to a centering practice, only to be subjected to activism with increased frequency. This is no longer facilitating the centering or mindfulness we’re there to practice. It’s injecting outside issues that are inappropriate for the studio practice.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Great yoga practice for all level yogis. Always good vibes!!!

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

My first time here. We were celebrating our friend's birthday. Vicky Cook is super sweet and kind enough to play our special requests. Totally loved the vibe. Jenny our instructor was simply amazing. What an amazing experience. Definitely recommend this place! It is all things YOGA!

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Just had my first class today and it was fantastic! Vicky was a great teacher, I've been doing martial arts for almost 20 years and have been looking for something to counter the strain it puts on my joints and muscles, and even after one "beginner" class, I feel so good! One of the best ways I've seen to practice mindfulness and inner peace while getting a workout that makes you feel whole after!

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

This is my favorite yoga studio in Fairfield County. The staff are so friendly and welcoming, and the space is truly inviting. The studio and the quality of their classes far exceed any others I've been to in Fairfield and Westchester Counties.

Source: Google

★ 5

Amazing teachers, welcoming staff. A truly pleasant experience. Great place to start, continue, and excel at the practice.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 4

Yoga was good

Source: Google

★ 5

I absolutely love SYJ. Every teacher I've had has been outstanding and has led a class that challenges me both physically and mentally. From the moment I walk through the door, I can feel the positivity and welcoming spirit of the space. I highly recommend SYJ to any Yogi in the Fairfield County area! You won't be disappointed.

Source: Google

★ 5

I absolutely love this place!!! Every teacher is amazing, and I always walk out feeling so much better. Keep up the great work, and thank you for making this an oasis.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Saraswati Yoga SoNo is like walking into a yoga oasis. The same SYJ culture and spirit radiate the space - bright and airy yet you do not get lost.
As I use SYJ in SoNo prior to work, the showers and changing space are an extra bonus.
Thanks for continuing to spread the laughter and joy!

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 3

No injuries Please? Yoga is a healing art . Thats why Bikram Yoga is the best.

Source: Google

★ 5

The best! No better yoga studio in Norwalk or Fairfield County. Honest, down-to-earth, SMART yoga teachers.

Source: Google