One of the greatest things I learned from my Yoga Under the Sky class was how many opportunities like it you can find around Miami. With a growing yoga culture in a large city there are endless opportunities for practice and many of them for cheap (if not free). Hilary was the one to share with me that she also taught for Green Monkey Yoga and that they sponsored a free class every Sunday at the Mondrian Hotel in South Beach. After experiencing an amazing class with Hilary of course I could not wait to get back out there so I checked the class out the very next week. Though it was not Hilary who taught this specific class, it was just as great and to my surprise the view was wonderful.

The class takes place on the mondrian’s large wooden deck with a spectacular view of Biscayne Bay and downtown Miami so it’s not very hard to feel like you are in paradise. I arrived at the hotel just a little before 10:00am – a great time for class since it’s easier to find parking the heat is not yet unbearable. Everyone at the hotel was very welcoming and led me straight to the deck to set up for class.

All I had to do was sign a waiver and I was set. I brought my own mat and water bottle but for those vacationing or who simply did not bring their own, the hotel provided both. Many times we can be easy to dismiss great opportunities because we are not prepared so in case the idea of this view didn’t convince you to take the leap, not having to buy your own mat definitely seems like a bonus. I was the first to arrive so I got to pick a prime spot right in the middle of the deck by the instructor just in time for everyone else to arrive. The deck filled up quickly as both guests of the hotel and locals began to arrive and in a couple minutes we were starting our sun salutations.

 
Focusing on my breathing and dedicating myself felt easy when my view was composed of endless hues of blue and white. The background noises – planes overhead, water splashing and children laughing – were just something faint that blended into my deep breaths. While the view certainly can’t compare the class was also challenging so I knew my mind and body alike were getting some much needed love. The instructor offered variations of moves for beginners and more advanced yogis so no matter what your level of expertise, there was something for everyone. By the end of the class I was begging to be in child’s pose, hugging my water bottle, feeling a shade or two tanner – this is what I’d call a successful class.

My favorite part about the classes is the enthusiasm and radiant attitude from all the instructors. I have now attended the class several times and no matter who is teaching I come out feeling invigorated, thankful and overall happier than when I first sat in my mat. All green monkey instructors seem happy to come to work and it is obvious they hope to enlighten their students if even a little bit so that they will come out from the class feeling as I do.