Overview
Om Ananda Yoga has been a cornerstone of the Fort Collins community since 2007, operating from a beautiful downtown studio with a philosophy of radical inclusivity. It welcomes practitioners of all backgrounds, body types, and experience levels, fostering a genuine sense of belonging and connection rather than competition. The studio provides a diverse weekly schedule of room-temperature classes, including specialized offerings and outdoor sessions, alongside highly-regarded 200-hour and 300-hour teacher training programs. As a non-profit with sliding scale pricing, it prioritizes financial and social accessibility, making yoga available to a wider audience. Perfect for beginners and those seeking authentic practice in a supportive, community-oriented environment, Om Ananda Yoga is more than a studio—it’s a home for growth and connection.
Yoga Format
Yoga Styles
Studio Amenities
Studio Business Hours
| Day | Status | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Monday | Open | 6:15 AM – 8:30 PM |
| Tuesday | Open | 6:15 AM – 8:30 PM |
| Wednesday | Open | 7:00 AM – 8:30 PM |
| Thursday | Open | 6:15 AM – 8:30 PM |
| Friday | Open | 6:15 AM – 6:30 PM |
| Saturday | Open | 9:00 AM – 6:30 PM |
| Sunday | Open | 7:30 AM – 8:00 PM |
Studio in Details
A Welcoming Community in Downtown Fort Collins
Om Ananda Yoga has cultivated a distinct identity in Fort Collins since its founding in 2007, evolving from humble apartment-based sessions to its current studio in the heart of downtown. People describe it as a very easy going and welcoming studio with a beautiful sense of community. The founders, Sarada and Shivaji Erickson, are noted by long-time visitors for making the sharing of yoga knowledge and community building their life’s work. The studio’s stated philosophy is one of radical inclusivity, explicitly welcoming all skin colors, body types, genders, sexual identities, flexibility levels, ages, and sizes, a sentiment that visitors echo by describing the environment as inclusive and a place where they always feel welcome and at ease, even if they “can’t touch their toes.” The space itself, with beautiful windows overlooking Old Town trees and wide-open hardwood floors, contributes to what people call a beautiful yoga studio in a cute location right in the middle of town, offering plenty to do before and after class.
The overall vibe, as recounted by those who attend, is one of authenticity and connection. Visitors frequently use words like welcoming, friendly, kind-hearted, sincere, and authentic to describe the teachers and the atmosphere. One person’s simple statement, “I’m home,” captures the deep sense of belonging many express. This is not a studio focused on intense heat or athletic competition; instead, people highlight the real and authentic yoga and meditation practices, the opportunity for moving meditation, and the nurturing of sacred space for connection and growth. The community aspect is paramount, with people noting lasting connections formed through classes and teacher trainings.
Diverse Offerings for Practice and Education
The studio provides a broad and accommodating schedule that caters to various interests and commitment levels. Visitors consistently praise the good variety of classes and diversity of teachers. They note a full schedule with classes offered throughout the week to accommodate different schedules and levels, including specific mentions of a popular Wise Woman class on Tuesdays and a weekly outdoor park class on Thursdays. While the specific styles for every class are not detailed by visitors, they do explicitly mention experiencing Bhakti yoga, describing it as light-hearted, fun, and allowing one to move at their own pace. Classes are all held at room temperature, distinguishing it from hot yoga studios.
Beyond group classes, Om Ananda Yoga has a significant educational arm. The studio offers comprehensive teacher training programs, including a 200-hour and a 300-hour certification. Visitors who have participated describe these as high quality with knowledgeable instructors and high expectations, resulting in deep learning. The curriculum is noted for providing a solid knowledge of anatomy and an understanding of yogic philosophy. The trainings are also praised for their supportive, non-competitive environment where newcomers are immediately made to feel welcome. The studio also hosts workshops, as indicated on its website, and offers online yoga classes, which some visitors appreciate for the convenience of practicing from home. A retail boutique area on-site is also mentioned by people who have visited.
Accessibility, Practicalities, and Who It Suits
A defining characteristic of Om Ananda Yoga, frequently highlighted by visitors, is its conscious effort toward financial and social accessibility. The studio operates as a non-profit with sliding scale pricing, allowing individuals to choose a payment level based on their circumstances. People deeply appreciate this sincere effort to be accessible and affordable, noting it helps more folks access the benefits of yoga. Specific offers like a new member 30-day pass are called “can’t be beat.” The studio is described as reasonably priced. This financial model, combined with the inclusive philosophy, makes the studio particularly suited for those seeking a non-intimidating, community-oriented space rather than a purely fitness-focused environment. It appeals to beginners reassured by the welcoming vibe, practitioners interested in meditation and authentic philosophy, and those pursuing teacher training in a supportive setting.
Practically, the studio is located on the second floor of a building in downtown Fort Collins that does not have an elevator. Visitors mention there are restrooms and a water cooler, but no showers or locker rooms. Props are available for use, and mats can be rented or borrowed, though bringing your own is an option. Some visitors note that, post-2020, practices like hands-on adjustments and playing music during class may not be standard, which is a preference for some. The teachers are repeatedly described as funny, kind, knowledgeable, creative, and thoughtful, skilled at offering modifications for individual needs like injuries. For those in Fort Collins looking for a genuine, inclusive, and affordable yoga community with a strong emphasis on authentic practice and teacher education, Om Ananda Yoga presents a compelling and warmly recommended destination.