Assume the position
Shaping up for bikini season, bypass the traditional salad-and-gym routine in favor of an ancient excersise that disciplines both mind and body. Whether Ashtanga, Ayengar or scary Bikram — life is short and there’s many a yoga party to crash.
It is natural that as the temperature rises, we begin to shed our clothing the way the attractive employees at Moscow’s finer nightlife establishments do. It’s only normal that during the course of winter we’ve packed on some extra weight, like the teenagers at a Star Trek convention. Exercise is the obvious answer, but if treadmills and Stairmasters bore you there’s another option you may not have considered, and no experience is required.The ancient practice of yoga has made it’s way into town, and is beginning to emerge as the exercise of choice among local fitness buffs. Yoga involves synchronizing the breath with a series of progressive postures, known as asanas, and is performed on a nifty rubber mat. It’s easy to begin, as you don’t need any special gadgets, toys, or fancy shoes.
Whether or not you’re a newcomer to the sport, if you head over to NYM Yoga and Spa, you’ll find the mecca of Ashtanga yoga. The owner, Katya Kushner, is a New Yorker of Russian heritage who has returned to her roots here in Moscow. Familiar with the pressures of city life around the globe, she has created an environment that is prepared to help you deal with living in an urban jungle. Located conveniently on the Sadovoye Koltso, this intimate studio offers lessons six days a week for every possible type of student. The particular type of yoga that’s taught here is often known as “power yoga,” commonly studied by athletes who want to build strength and improve muscle tone. The studio itself employs seven instructors who are extremely well versed in the art of Ashtanga, and are very patient with those who aren’t. Improving your balance is particularly crucial after a hard night of drinking, and this tranquil spot in the center of the city is exactly what you’ll need for the morning after. Yoga sessions are known to bring on state of relaxed bliss, without the aid of expensive narcotics. Classes are available in both English and Russian, and they also offer yoga for women who are pre-and post-natal. Can’t find a babysitter? Sign your child up next Saturday, and it’s sure to build a lifelong respect for flexibility. One session is 800 rubles, but encourage yourself to get back into shape with a package of ten (6,600 rubles), or an unlimited monthly deal (8,000 rubles).
If you’re not sure what to bring, just bring yourself- everything you’ll need is available here, from bath towels and yoga mats (120 and 1,800 rubles, respectively) to comfy American Apparel clothing for both men and women (prices vary). Spend a few minutes in their cozy tea room, and let your problems melt away for awhile. The studio features one main exercise room, two smaller spaces with cockatiels chirping quietly in the background for private lessons, and a comfortable massage room toward the rear. The importance of ambience is not forgotten here, with scented candles, dark woods floors and Nepalese furniture enhancing the mood. Aside from the physical health benefits, yoga is form of meditation and an excellent way to relieve stress. It’s impossible not to feel relaxed in this space, but it can be a little intimidating to try something new. If you’re nervous, sign up for an individual lesson (4,500 rubles), or just wear a lot of baggy clothing. To complete their image of an urban oasis, NYM also offers various massage and facial treatments. Begin your morning with a traditional Thai massage, and you won’t even notice the rush hour traffic.
PHOTO GEORGY IVANOV/TEXT ALESIA GEORGIOU