When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
The People's Yoga
Why The People's Yoga is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The People's Yoga is an inviting yoga studio that serves as a vibrant hub for wellness and social connection, ideal for meeting up with friends and engaging in a collective practice of mind-body harmony. With a stellar rating of 4.9 from its 110 reviews, the studio has earned a reputation for its inclusive and accessible approach to yoga that welcomes practitioners of all levels and backgrounds. The location features two distinct studio spaces: a large studio that hosts most group classes and workshops, and a smaller studio designed for private sessions and intimate classes, ensuring both community engagement and personalized attention. Highlights include a diverse class offering that balances alignment-based flow and therapeutic yoga to meet various physical and mental health needs, guided by experienced instructors like founder Misty Belous. Private sessions allow deeper, individualized exploration, while Yoga Alliance-certified teacher training programs empower individuals to deepen their practice or step into teaching roles. The studio fosters a supportive atmosphere with thoughtful policies on health, hygiene, and community care, including air purification and flexible cancellation options. This makes The People's Yoga not only a place for mindful movement but also a welcoming community space where friends can connect and grow together in wellness.
Here's what people think of The People's Yoga
As of recent, The People's Yoga holds a 4.9-star rating based on 110 reviews.
User reviews consistently praise The People's Yoga for its warm, inclusive environment and the expertise of its teachers, particularly founder Misty Belous. Many highlight the studio's ability to cater to varying skill levels, with positive feedback on the balance of alignment-focused and therapeutic classes that help with stress relief, healing, and physical conditioning. Positive reviews also mention the thoughtful class sizes, the cleanliness and safety measures in the studio, and the strong sense of community that encourages both personal growth and social connections. The availability of private sessions and teacher training is appreciated for offering deeper, personalized engagement. On the other hand, some negative reviews note occasional scheduling challenges and the high demand for private lessons, which can make booking difficult. A few users mention that drop-in rates may be considered higher than average, which could be a consideration for some visitors. Despite these minor critiques, the overall consensus remains highly favorable, with many reviewers considering The People's Yoga a cornerstone of their wellness routine and a reliable, nurturing space to practice yoga and meet like-minded individuals. The studio's consistent dedication to accessibility and community well-being is reflected in its outstanding 4.9 rating, confirming its appeal and quality as a place to meet up with friends and foster a healthy lifestyle.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
M
Nice, large neighborhood studio, and I loved the beautiful plants throughout. The weekend class I attended was packed. I will say I was surprised at the poor quality of the loaner mats (which cost an additional $2). Beginners, travelers, and people without much money are more likely to need a loaner mat, and offering them a slippery, worn-out mat that wasn't designed for yoga isn't very inclusive :(
Jamie Jefferson
2024: Holy Snake with Veronika - 1 star "don't drink water." "don't go into child's pose." "you don't need blocks; go deeper." "get into the position even if you're not doing it right." "my yoga teacher would pull the mat right out from under you if you wouldn't move." "someone in here is doing it wrong." this instructor is militant and aims to shame. you should have a lot of confidence before trying this class so you don't hurt yourself. class ended a half hour late with no notice. 2023: Loved the restorative yoga class I attended. Instructor helped students with prop placement and read a poem at the end of the practice. Lots of blankets, blocks, etc to borrow on site.
Mandi McD
Do not recommend. They don't stand behind their online registration platform. I registered for two of us, which their platform let me do, and paid for two registration fees. When we showed up to class, they were full and said, "Our system doesn't work that way." Ah, so they know it but don't have any system in place to take care of customers who use the process in place. They could even see on my registration that I had paid before the class was closed. Too bad. They don't care. They obviously don't need new clients with all these 5-star reviews, and I don't need to take yoga in a toxic environment like that.
Ashley
Linnea is hands down the best yin teacher I’ve been to 🙌🏼. I always feel so relaxed and at ease after class.
mimi ing
I enjoy several classes and instructors at this location. Clean, organized, and welcoming. Membership is a good value and there are lits of different yoga practices offered.
How to reach The People's Yoga
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Why The People's Yoga may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at The People's Yoga with your friends?
Gathering with friends or family at The People's Yoga is an ideal way to connect both physically and emotionally while nurturing your well-being together. This welcoming, inclusive studio breaks down barriers often associated with yoga by emphasizing accessibility—yoga is truly for everyone, regardless of background, beliefs, or prior experience. The warm atmosphere fosters a supportive community where all participants feel comfortable expressing themselves and moving at their own pace. With a remarkable rating of 4.9 from over a hundred reviews, the studio’s reputation for excellent instruction and positive energy makes it a trustworthy place to host your next group meetup. Sharing a yoga session here not only promotes health and mindfulness but also deepens bonds through shared experiences of discovery and growth. When your group wants a meaningful yet fun outing away from the usual social locales, The People’s Yoga offers a refreshing change that combines physical activity, community spirit, and relaxation under one roof. This environment of acceptance and kindness naturally cultivates a joyful, uplifting group dynamic, making every meetup memorable.
What kinds of yoga classes and activities can groups enjoy at The People’s Yoga?
At The People’s Yoga, groups can explore a wide variety of yoga styles tailored to all levels, ensuring everyone can participate and feel confident. The studio offers classes such as Vinyasa Flow, known for its invigorating, fluid sequences that synchronize breath with movement, providing a dynamic workout that’s both challenging and adaptable. Those seeking relaxation and restoration can opt for Gentle Hatha or Restorative classes, ideal for unwinding and loosening tight muscles in a calming setting. Another unique offering is Dharma Yoga, which combines physical poses with mindful philosophy, connecting body and mind on a deeper level. The presence of experienced instructors like Sadie Leigh and Kris Olson means classes are well-guided, with options to scale poses to suit each participant’s ability, making group practice inclusive and enjoyable. Beyond regular classes, The People’s Yoga often hosts community events and workshops, promising engaging activities that strengthen group cohesion through shared learning and personal growth.
How does The People’s Yoga create a safe and comfortable environment for groups?
The People’s Yoga prioritizes safety and cleanliness, critical factors that enhance comfort when bringing a group to practice together. The studio maintains rigorous hygiene standards, with regular updates on safety guidelines to ensure a healthy environment for all attendees. In response to recent health concerns, mask-wearing is optional but welcomed, allowing participants to choose what suits them best. Furthermore, the facility features a modern ventilation system that constantly exchanges indoor air with fresh outdoor air while using UV filtration to reduce airborne viruses, enhancing air quality significantly. The spacious and clean studios provide plenty of room for social distancing without compromising the intimate, connected feel of a group class. Friendly staff and instructors are attentive to individual needs, promoting a culture of respect and support where everyone’s boundaries are honored. This careful attention to detail assures groups that their well-being is a top priority during their visit.
Why is The People’s Yoga a perfect location for hosting group meetups?
Hosting a group meetup at The People’s Yoga means not just gathering socially but engaging in a meaningful shared experience that fosters wellness and community spirit. The studio’s inclusive philosophy invites diverse groups, whether friends, families, coworkers, or special interest clubs, to come together in a supportive space where everyone is encouraged to be themselves. With two convenient locations in Portland—NE Killingsworth and SE Hawthorne—ample street parking is available, making arrival and departure hassle-free for groups. The welcoming vibe is enhanced by little touches such as the presence of a studio mascot Chihuahua, adding a homely and joyful atmosphere that guests remember fondly. Additionally, the studio’s community-driven model means every visit contributes to yoga scholarships for those in need, allowing your group meetup to have a positive ripple effect beyond your immediate circle. This combination of thoughtful amenities, strong community values, and expert instruction ensures that your gathering is both enriching and enjoyable.
What makes the instructors and teaching style at The People’s Yoga stand out for groups?
The People’s Yoga boasts a diverse roster of highly skilled instructors, each bringing unique strengths and teaching styles that cater to a variety of preferences and needs. Teachers like Sadie Leigh and Kris Olson are frequently praised for their ability to challenge students while providing clear, accessible modifications, making classes both rewarding and attainable. The emphasis on scaling poses empowers all group members, from beginners to more experienced practitioners, to participate fully without feeling intimidated. Instructors cultivate an atmosphere of encouragement and mindfulness, helping students tune into their bodies and breath, which enhances group synergy and connection. Along with traditional yoga practice, some classes integrate philosophical insights and restorative practices that appeal to various learning styles and interests within your group. This thoughtful instruction maximizes the value of your group meetup by facilitating personal growth and collective harmony.
How does The People’s Yoga support inclusivity and community engagement for groups?
At its core, The People’s Yoga is committed to accessibility and inclusivity, values that resonate deeply in the way it engages with individuals and groups alike. The studio’s business model includes funding yoga scholarships, meaning your group’s participation contributes directly to making yoga available to community members who might otherwise face barriers. This act of giving back enriches the group experience by connecting attendees to a larger purpose beyond personal well-being. The welcoming environment ensures that people of all ages, sizes, fitness levels, and backgrounds feel respected and embraced, which is key to building a cohesive group dynamic. Community events and workshops hosted by the studio provide further opportunities for groups to bond while exploring yoga’s many dimensions together. This holistic approach to community and inclusion encourages groups to forge meaningful connections that extend well past the yoga mat.
Can the studio accommodate special group needs and private events?
Yes, The People’s Yoga’s flexible space and staff services make it a great choice for hosting private group events or tailored meetups. Whether your group is interested in booking a private class, celebrating a special occasion, or organizing a corporate wellness session, the studio can accommodate various needs with personalized attention. The instructors are adept at customizing sessions to fit the group’s goals, whether that means focusing on gentle stretching, vigorous flow, stress relief, or team-building activities. The calm, inviting ambiance also lends itself well to hybrid events that combine yoga with social time or even light refreshments afterward. Ample parking and two well-located studios further facilitate ease of access for guests. This ability to adapt and personalize experiences ensures that no matter the nature or size of your group, your event at The People’s Yoga will be seamless and enjoyable.
What should groups know before visiting The People’s Yoga?
Groups planning a meetup at The People’s Yoga should know that while the studio welcomes participants of all levels, it encourages attendees to arrive with an open mind and a readiness to explore yoga at their own pace. It's helpful to check the class schedule online in advance to coordinate sessions that best fit the group’s interests and availability. The studio provides necessary props such as mats and blocks, though bringing your own is also welcomed. Dressing in comfortable attire suitable for movement is recommended to maximize comfort. Also, the studio’s focus on fostering a calm, respectful atmosphere means that groups are encouraged to maintain mindfulness about space and noise to preserve the serene environment for all occupants. By preparing thoughtfully, groups will ensure a positive and harmonious experience that will strengthen their connections to each other and to the practice.
How does The People’s Yoga differentiate itself from other yoga studios for group meetups?
The People’s Yoga stands out for its unwavering commitment to affordability, inclusivity, and community-building, setting it apart as a uniquely welcoming destination that truly democratizes yoga. Unlike studios that might cater primarily to experienced practitioners or niche audiences, The People’s Yoga openly embraces beginners and seasoned yogis alike, celebrating diversity in every form. Its two convenient locations with ample amenities, combined with a high user rating and glowing reviews praising the exceptional instruction and ambiance, reinforce its status as a reliable option for groups. The studio’s active investment in community scholarships demonstrates a socially conscious approach that transforms each visit into a meaningful contribution. This, together with the friendly staff, thoughtful class offerings, and clean, safe environment, makes The People’s Yoga not just a place to exercise but a vibrant community hub where groups can thrive and create lasting memories. Hosting your gathering here assures an experience infused with warmth, energy, and shared purpose.