idterms are quickly approaching but when the going gets tough, the tough go to…yoga? Many Quakers lock themselves in the library come midterms season, but it’s important to take time for yourself to de–stress. Practicing yoga boosts your immune system, improves flexibility, balance, focus and strength, helps you sleep better, helps you breathe better and floods your body with endorphins. What’s that, exam stress? I can’t hear you over the sound of my Lion’s Breath.
What to Wear
Niyama Sol Endless Leggings
Niyama Sol Endless Leggings
Shimmer and shine against a sea of black yoga pants. Niyama Sol’s Endless Leggings ($88) are lightweight, stretchy and comfortable. The tummy–tucking, booty–lifting style is universally flattering. The bright patterns will make you the envy of your yoga class.
Zella High Waisted Leggings
Zella offers the same quality as Lululemon at a friendlier price point. Carried at Nordstrom’s, Zella’s High Waisted Leggings ($54–65) are fashionable, functional and perfect for your next sweat session.
Spiritual Gangster Yoga Inspired Clothing
Philadelphia is no California coastal town, but at least in Spiritual Gangster clothing you can pretend. Their tanks and tees are gorgeous, super–soft and perfect to slip into after yoga class.
How to Accessorize
S’well Water Bottle
These beautifully made water bottles ($35) keep drinks cold for 24 hours and hot for 12. The price point is a little high, but the great quality and amazing color scheme make it worth it.
Yogi Tea
When your yoga teacher references “yogi tea,” she’s not speaking metaphorically. Yogi tea is delicious, real and available for purchase at Frogro. Each tea bag comes with an inspirational yogic message like “The beauty of life is to experience yourself.”
Go Getter Bag from Lululemon
Your yoga mat, yoga strap, shoes and snacks have to go somewhere. Spring for this sleek black bag ($148) to carry to class. With compartments for your laptop, water bottle, phone and clothes, this bag has it all.
What to Listen To
Janelle Monae’s “Yoga”
Flirty and Fierce
With lyrics like “Flexin’ like a yogi/drop it down with your hands up,” no yoga playlist would be complete without Janelle Monae’s “Yoga”. Follow it up with DJ Dave and Barney Kook’s “Yoga Girl” and Hailee Steinfeld’s “Love Myself”.
Soft and Romantic
Love in the air? “Photograph” by Air, “Open” by Rhye and “Feel Real” by Deptford Goth will set the perfect mood for your practice.
Saturday Morning Vibes
Every morning can feel like a Saturday morning with the right playlist. Start your flow right with “Banana Pancakes” by Jack Johnson, “Shape of You” by Ed Sheeran and “Chicago” by Sufjan Stevens.
Where to Go
Studio 34
Studio 34 is a center for the creative and healing arts and offers a wide variety of yoga classes. Grab some friends and your yoga mat—at $12 for a drop–in class and $45 for a month of unlimited classes, the price is right. You’ll leave class looking hotter than 2012 Miley and feeling ready to open yourself up to the mysteries of the universe—or something.
Where: 4522 Baltimore Avenue
The Philadelphia Museum of Art
On Wednesdays from 6–7pm, yogis take over the PMA: flowing through sun salutations while admiring great art. These free classes let you get your zen on while becoming more cultured.
Where: 2600 Benjamin Franklin Parkway
Your Room
The next time you feel like running around campus like a deranged pitbull, don’t. Instead light some candles, play relaxing music and stretch it out. YouTube has all sorts of yoga tutorials so pretty sure you’ll be the flower child of your dreams.
Images Courtesy of Niyama Sol and Yoga Dork