Best Meditation Instructor Ann Arbor Near Me

Analía Lessenberry Valdez: When one has certain difficulties in life, or perhaps, feels lost, it can be really hard to take advice from people who have not gone through what you have gone through.I am choosing to be very candid in my review, in hope that it might help or encourage someone else who is in the place that I once occupied.I came to Ema a little over 12 years ago. Only 19 at the time I wanted to learn more about yoga, one of the only things that made me "feel better". I had a very high score of "Adverse Childhood Effects". This manifests itself in many ways in those who have suffered trauma, but in me it manifested itself in: depression, anxiety, insomnia, emotional, physical and other types of imbalances in my mind and body. Simply put I had never seen what it was like to have a good, happy, balanced life. Many things about society had me questioning. Why were my instincts so different than what society told me they had to be? Couldn't I just be myself? First I had to meet my "self" and that is where Ema came in.At the time I was studying the 500hr Yoga and Meditation Teacher Training, but now as an adult I realize I was really receiving a sophisticated form of Yoga Therapy. Learning the techniques that Ema taught me, helped to save me what would likely have been thousands of hours in talk therapy and even more money in medication. I am so grateful I found a natural way to bring about harmony and balance in my life. Not to mention grateful that I was exposed to "real yoga" which encompasses a wide scope of topics well beyond just physical postures. I notice friends and acquaintances who have completed yoga teacher trainings elsewhere often have no clue of certain topics I bring up to them that are integral to my personal practice.During that period I was able to enjoy around 3 yoga retreats with her in amazing locations around Michigan. The Lake Michigan retreat really stands out to me and I look forward to returning this summer.Now at 32 years old I have begun studying with Ema again. I was going through another transition period in my life and wanted to learn deeper forms of meditation. Ema was right there for me as if no time had even passed. Since I live on the East Coast now she was willing to do private virtual lessons with me. I felt like that experience would not be the same as in person classes. To my surprise, even over the internet, Ema is able to transmit a special energy. It is hard to describe but with some simple instructions, meditation feels easy and natural with her.Without her guidance and the acquisition of a yogic lifestyle I would have never been able to be at the point I am at now. I have a good full time job, many fulfilling artistic hobbies, as well as meaningful friendships and relationships. When I started studying yoga with Ema over 12 years ago I never could have even conceived of viewing life in the way I do now. The world is no longer a horrible place where everyone was out to hurt me. I am able to be happy, but without the manic ups and downs. Younger me still cannot believe what I have been able to accomplish.Ema showed me how to be a "balanced" creative person and follow my natural intuition. This has given me unspeakable opportunities and experiences.Thank you Ema! I am eternally grateful for you and for the grace of yoga! I look forward to doing Continuing Education courses towards my Teaching Certification with her.

Pugal Janakiraman: Awesome teacher with really deep knowledge who have transformed my life in less than 5 sessions.

Karen Stevens: Hello! I went to the Retreat at SW Lake Michigan, last weekend (July 29-31/2022) and I have to say it was one of the most touching experiences I have had in my life, the place is so peaceful, special, it's magic!! However that was nothing compare to Ema, she is such an amazing woman, she has a lot of knowledge and his energy is very special. Words can't describe very well what I experienced. But if you made it to this comment, just go!! You won't regret it!Thank you Ema!!

Cass Donakey: Ema is really knowledgeable at her craft. Her training is admirable.

Brandon R. Lewandowski-Scott: To say that I enjoyed my experience and that I am glad I did it, is an understatement; this experience is difficult to put into words. Ema is extremely knowledgeable and it is apparent how she has dedicated her life to learning and teaching. I admire Ema and strive to be like Ema in the way that she operates from heart and passion only! I intend to return again someday and hope to experience other adventures offered by Ema, along the way, as well.

Judy Bradford: My weekend retreat with Ema was soooo relaxing and informative. She is very sensitive to each individual's needs, and won't move on to the next exercise (whether yoga or mediation) until she is confident everyone "gets it" and is ready to move on. I learned so many new ways to get into a meditative state, and I will continue to use these methods to reduce anxiety and help with my sleep.

Emmy Schwab: Ema guided me through very specific yogic exercises that brought me consciousness-based experiences of a singular, universal insight. This insight in their moments gave me a novel sense of clarity and purpose and love, the power of which I’d never before experienced. Before we departed, Ema gave me the resources I’d need to continue down the path.

Kyle Kleeberger: I attended a 3 day retreat back in April of 2021. The instruction was genuine, thorough and positive overall. I look forward to my next encounter with Ema Stefanova!

wesenf peterson: Positive:QualityEma is a great instructor. I have known her for more than 22 years and really enjoy her classes.

Jasper Z: I am new to yoga and have worked with Ema for only a month and a half... and the results are immediately visible. I have a Fitbit watch and it has shown a dramatic decrease in my resting heart rate that visibly correlates to the start date of my yoga lessons. I usually have liver and hip issues around this time of the year from season changes and doing yoga with her has significantly helped me cope with those things... and I'm just starting. Her instructions are very well geared towards addressing my immediate issues and are tremendously helpful for everyday life. I would highly recommend her.

Chris Traugott: Positive:Communication,Professionalism,Quality

Jennifer Toothnanny: Positive:Communication,Professionalism,QualityFor the best yoga experiences, look no further. Ema provides her students with excellent classes for yoga and meditation. The retreat experiences were incredible. Ema is a professional with years of experience and the yoga is very traditional and authentic. This center will help your mind and body!

Russell Quillin: Ema Stefanova is a knowledgable and skilled yoga instructor. She is competent in working with students with a variety of experience and skill levels in yoga and meditation.

Tanya DesJardins: Ema is a very knowledgeable Yoga and Meditation teacher. She is patient and caring and has a great approach. Ema takes time to get to know her students, she make everybody feel welcome and is very encouraging. I highly recommend her to anyone looking for a traditional approach to yoga or meditation.

Nick Szpond: Ema is very passionate, patient, and willing to teach. Being a beginner student, I learned a lot about meditation and yoga and was able to use some of the techniques at home as well. I highly recommend Ema whether you are experienced or new to meditation.

Eric Ederer: I took the 500 hour Yoga Teacher course. The course empowered me to make authentic, safe, and personalize Yoga routines with postures, breath, and meditations for overall health and well-being. It is a good course for committed students.

Rho Ostrowski: Ema taught me a great foundation of yoga years ago. During my yoga practice, I often find myself remembering the foundation and structure both energetically and physically that Ema instilled into me. Her depth of Yoga knowledge is refreshing. I would highly recommend anyone looking to get in touch with their body and inner self to take a class with Ema.Thank You Ema! :)

Tina Green: Ema is a very knowledgeable yoga and mediation instructor. Her teaching is not your typical westernized yoga classes. She is true to the practice. The retreat atmosphere that she offers is perfect for self reflection. The balance between group practice and self practice was perfect. I love her guided Yoga Nidra. I opted to take my yoga teacher training from Ema after researching all the available trainings in the area. I believe that her training is extremely comprehensive and much more in depth than others that I reviewed. I know I will be a successful teacher because of her guidance.

Doug Wathen: Ema's teaching style is very personal; what works for you. This is not trendy yoga but traditional with high quality instruction. Like many of her students, I have been studying with her for years.

Emmak9: Amazing knowledge and insight on traditional yoga and meditation, improved my practice and general out look. Definitely recommend.

Steve: Great atmosphere for meditating and reflection. Promotes peace and comfortable cushions...

Elise Wheelock: This studio has changed my life. The teachers are beyond incredible and their individual personalities shine in their classes. You can find whatever you’re looking for: motivation and hype or calming and restoration. The teachers pour themselves into everything they do and have helped me become someone to whom fitness is a passion when it’s never been before.I’d like to specifically shout out Lauren, Emily, Sandra, and Pavel for helping me grow, feel safe and supported when I make mistakes, and take me from someone who didn’t know what a warrior pose was to someone who cares about yoga. I truly started from the very beginning and will always find more ways to grow.

David Van Dijcke: Class was insanely packed to a point that seemed hardly legal, let alone comfortable. Teacher taught maybe half of the time and the rest was "free flow". The flows she did teach were chaotic and made no sense, as if she'd taken a bunch of random poses and stitched them together like a Frankenstein monster. Loud random "feel-good" music playing over the hardly audible teacher. Avoid at all costs if you are looking for actual yoga. Hands down worst class I've ever attended.

Reanna Orzechowski: I LOVE Red yoga studio. The studio is hot with dim lights and a welcoming environment. The teachers are super nice!! I love their flow classes. The flows are very creative and I enjoy the fun music playing! I also really like the spirituality that each teacher adds in. I would highly recommend this ann arbor studio. My only one warning is that sometimes the classes go a little bit overtime so you have to be aware of that when you schedule your time.

Tanya Osorio-Cruz: I love this place so much. I’m getting back into yoga since taking around 5 years off and I’ve fallen in love all over again. Definitely check out the class descriptions because they’re not all great for beginners, but every single teacher I’ve talked to so far is so sweet and open and willing to help. I also love the sense of community at this studio.Updated review: Just moved back to Ann Arbor and was ready to head back to my favorite studio but it seems like there’s been a lot of changes under new ownership. No more XXX, Yinyasa, free meditation or late night classes, drop in price went up and now there’s a cycling class?! No thanks 😩 So annoyed I have to find a new studio in Ann Arbor!

Kinda May: My first experience was wonderful! The energy is spot on! Love the flow!

Michelle Ouimet: Great and clean studio with both changing areas and a shower!Red hot 26 is a spin on bikram 26 and 2, for those of you missing the hot room definitely come check out Red Yoga!Instructor is great and accommodating! This class is great for ALL levels, from beginners to advanced!

Elizabeth Henderson: Pavel is a wonderful guide.The studio is welcoming, clean, and warm ☀️I love it here. Feels like home Away from home

Shelley Raymond: I appreciate that RED has a variety of classes and a variety of top notch teachers. Some fast paced, some meditative. There is something for everyone. After 6 years of practicing with Pavel, I can say that sometimes his classes feel fairly easy and sometimes they are difficult. Even after the easy classes, I am amazed at how thoroughly every muscle group has been worked and how great I feel. I’m also amazed that no matter how difficult the class, being guided through effective warm-ups means that I rarely (if ever) experience sore muscles afterwards. Pavel is great at explaining the poses, the reason for the poses and where one should feel the stretch.

Kelly McGuckin: Unfortunately I wasn't very impressed with my class and the facility itself. Most people end up just changing in front because of inadequate space, which is awkward since the front windows face Liberty. They didn't know the password to their Wifi, and were unprepared when I asked to connect to it. The Hot 26 class wasn't really a workout at all, and the instructor gave little to no tips or assistance. The class also was not as described, and the room was barely warm.

David Johnson: I did a 70 mile bike ride about a week ago, a distance I've not been able to do for about the last two decades due to neck and back pain. But after three months of Red Yoga I can ride pain free. Prior to yoga, I was in pain with a ride only 5-10 miles long.Thanks for making a real difference in my life with your fantastic studio, teachers, and community. I find the energy and music super helpful in keeping me motivated. And, as a beginner it's nice feeling so welcome.

Carina Böttcher: I joined this Yoga Studio in autum last year. Ever since they are doing an outstanding job in keeping you safe while enjoying in studio hot yoga classes (wear masks, own cubicle style yoga places separated by clear plastic foils, etc.).The diversity and quality of the classes is great. I think everyone can find their preferred way of yoga here and also all of the instructors are very nice, friendly and provide detailed instructions which are easy to follow during the yoga flows.every once in a while the owner plays a gong for end if class meditation. This was a really unique experience for me and I highly recommend you check this out. Its great!

Y.F. Mei: It’s more like a fitness studio more than a yoga studio...can’t imagine that one of the teachers use hip hop music during the class...and air is not circulate at all...not my type for yoga

Aljoharah Alfayez: I'm a regular at this studio and took the teacher training this winter, it's the best yoga studio and teacher training, I highly recommend it. The instructors are the best, the community is incredible and the heated room makes such a positive difference too.

Alex Fauer: Overall vibe feels very competitive instead of being mindful and welcoming to all. If you are new to yoga or don't attend regularly it may be difficult because there is not a lot of explanation of poses or alignments. Can be difficult to keep up when it's hard to see the rest of the room (infrared light). $4 rental fee for mats when many other studios offer them for free.-

Nour Bissada: CFY AA closed down and I was looking for a similar studio to practice at. I love this studio, best place to practice hot vinyasa in AA.

Ian Stirton: Great studio. The people there make a real effort to build a community. Varying levels of difficulty depending on the teacher or the class type. Seems like the teachers really bring it when they teach. Great place to stretch your hammies and turn your brain off and tune into your inner world. 5 stars.

Nicole: YTT 200 hour at Red Yoga was an amazing experience. I have been practicing yoga for well over 10 years and have practiced at several studios; following my first hot vinyasa class, I was hooked. I chose Red for their community atmosphere, challenging vinyasa classes, and their commitment to exploring the philosophy and roots of yoga as more than just a "work out." Most teachers at the studio have some role in teaching the students, giving us a wide range of knowledge to take with us on our journey. If you chose Red for your 200 hour YTT, just know that it's more than just the physical yoga poses - it's about building a foundation of mindfulness, meditation, community and way of life.

Mikako Martin: I initially signed up for teacher training at Red to simply learn more about Yoga however the experience involved so much more than just that. Teacher training taught me to really embrace all aspects of yoga, not just the physical. It really is ‘life training’ in a way because all the lessons I learned in YTT were so applicable in my everyday life as well as on my mat. I was able to strengthen many relationships in my life, including the one I have with myself. Also, I could have never anticipated finding such a beautiful and warm community that is RED! By having such incredible teachers lead the group I always felt like I was in amazing hands and had someone I could comfortably go to when I needed help. Each teacher was so different which gave me a plethora of perspectives on each topic we covered. Most importantly, I felt pushed out of my comfort zone yet heavily supported every single step of the way. One of the best decisions I have ever made - I would recommend YTT to anyone who is interested because it’s for everyone.

sydney goodwin: I am completely in love with this place, I have been struggling with anxiety for so long and this is my safe haven. The teachers are amazing there is so much energy all around. Heidi and Kelli are amazing they really get you to let go of whatever you are holding onto. I also did the Yoga teacher training there as well and it helped me with not only to have a better practice but I ended up reflecting on myself, such an amazing journey. This community is so welcoming and one of a kind. I truly don't know what I would do without them.

Jaclynn Spryshak: Incredible. As a regular here and recent Red YTT graduate, I can say that I was pushed beyond what I thought I could ever do in each class and throughout the training. Each teacher here is encouraged to be an individual in their careers and their classes, and that really shows in the quality of instruction here. The YTT was fast and furious - I would *highly* recommend the Intensive as a second training, but if you're coming in without prior experience (as with any intensive), know that it moves very fast and you will need to commit a lot of time to mastering the material. However, I saw each trainee grow significantly during our month together, and it was a powerful, enriching experience for all of us. You will redefine what "possible" means for you.Beautiful teachers here of every walk of life, willing to meet you where you're at and push you (with love!) to where you want to go. Amazing community of students, from UM and of all ages and levels, who show up ready to grow alongside you. Also, there are free mints at the front desk so you really can't lose :D