Best Yoga Instructor

Yoga has been the only consistency in my adult life. Of all the yoginis I’ve had the pleasure of practicing with, Ziggy Moon calls to me. She is open, patient, kind, wise, and nurturing. Big things are coming for this little yogini. Look for her at Bonnaroo next summer when you need some Zen time at the fest. less...

For too many people, yoga is seen as affluent white women wearing expensive pants indulging in pain-inducing poses. RUTU CHAUDHARI, however, is on a mission to change that perception. Through her All Life is Yoga studio, Chaudhari works to return the practice its self-referential roots by embracing mindfulness over athleticism. And by focusing on training a new generation of instructors via her nonprofit organization the Dharma Project — i.e., people color, folks from the LGBTQ community, of all shapes and sizes — she further challenges exclusionary notions and moves forward her philosophy that yoga is a way of life, not a luxury. 27 Waddell St., Suite D. 404-491-9027. www.alllifeisyoga.com.

photo by: Joeff Davis/ CL File

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Behind any serious yogi lies a beloved instructor, which makes picking the city’s best yoga instructor a little like picking best mom. That said, there’s something about Yoga Samadhi owner DOUG EIFRID that makes him stand out. At his sunny Inman Park studio, Eifrid inspires students to find harmony beyond their yoga practice. Just as important, though, is his attempt to make yoga more accessible by setting affordable prices and maintaining a low-key vibe. He and his 10 instructors teach 25 classes per week (including Eifrid’s packed all-levels class on Saturdays at noon), and they lead each class with humor and humility. Eifrid also hosts an annual yoga retreat in Tulum, Mexico, as well as the occasional couples yoga workshop, meditation class and free Friday-night kirtan, or chanting, session. Best of all, Eifrid’s workshops start at a mere $20, and he offers unlimited yoga for $98 per month. less...

If you’re looking to take up yoga then you should have no problem finding a class in this town because they’re popping up everywhere from 110-degree studios to church fellowship halls. But amid all of this yoga fever there seems to be one teacher who everyone is either talking about or has heard of, and that teacher is Johnny Colt at Stillwater Yoga Studios. Johnny is a no-nonsense kind of guy who helps his students explore their bodies and minds through yogic exercise and philosophy. Students who study with Johnny enjoy a safe and vigorous practice, gaining a clear understanding of the physiology involved in the discipline. Watching Johnny contort and twist his body during his warm-up beforehand can intimidate some, but when most students leave his class, they find themselves amazed and invigorated by their own accomplishments. less...