Overview
Dear Yoga Studio is a distinctive second-floor sanctuary in Portland’s inner Southeast neighborhood, celebrated for its abundant natural light, vaulted ceilings, and serene atmosphere that fosters mindfulness and self-discovery. The studio cultivates a warm, welcoming community where practitioners of all levels feel an immediate sense of belonging, thanks to the kind and curious ethos fostered by owner Aliyah. Instruction is a standout feature, with knowledgeable teachers like Aliyah and Giovanna guiding thoughtful, accessible flows that help students reconnect with their bodies in a supportive environment. The studio offers a diverse schedule of classes, complimentary props and tea, and special workshops like restorative new moon sessions, all included with memberships.
Yoga Format
Yoga Styles
Studio Amenities
Studio Business Hours
| Day | Status | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Monday | Open | 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Tuesday | Open | 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Wednesday | Open | 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Thursday | Open | 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Friday | Open | 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Saturday | Open | 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Sunday | Open | 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
Studio in Details
A Sanctuary of Light and Community in Inner Southeast Portland
Dear Yoga Studio occupies a distinctive second-floor space in Portland’s inner Southeast neighborhood, creating what visitors consistently describe as a beautiful, calming, and peaceful sanctuary. The studio’s defining feature is its abundant natural light, streaming through skylights set into vaulted ceilings. People note this creates an uplifting, airy, and serene atmosphere that feels like a refreshing change from the intensity of heated studios. The overall vibe, enhanced by a pleasant scent noticed upon entry, is one of immediate ease and relaxation. This is not just a room for exercise; visitors describe it as a space for mindfulness, movement, and self-discovery, where the environment itself feels nurturing. The studio’s location, just two blocks from the bustling Hawthorne district, offers easy access to cafes and transit, yet inside, a quiet, spacious, and clean retreat is maintained. Doors lock once class begins to preserve this peaceful environment for all.
The sense of community is palpable from the first visit. People frequently mention feeling an immediate sense of welcome, ease, and belonging. They describe the studio as a warm, welcoming space where the intention is to build connection both on and off the mat. This community feeling is rooted in what the studio describes as kindness and curiosity, a sentiment echoed by visitors who appreciate the lack of pretension. The owner, Aliyah, is noted by name for her sweetness, vision for community, and for creating this calm environment. The studio caters to a wide range of practitioners, explicitly welcoming seasoned yogis and those just starting their journey alike. Its central location in Portland, with plenty of free street parking and indoor bike racks, makes it accessible for locals and visitors in town briefly, who have found it to be a convenient and lovely place to drop in for a class.
Thoughtful Instruction and Diverse Class Offerings
The quality of instruction is a standout feature for those who practice here. Visitors describe the teachers as excellent, welcoming, friendly, and genuinely caring. Instructors like Aliyah and Giovanna are noted for being warm, kind, deeply knowledgeable, and centered. Their teaching styles are praised for creating welcoming environments, guiding lovely and awesome flows, and offering intelligent, thoughtful sequences. This attentive instruction has helped people who were nervous about returning to yoga after a long break feel stronger and more connected to their bodies within a month. The classes are designed to support every body and every season of life, whether one is seeking movement, stillness, or something in between.
While the specific styles of the regular weekly classes are not detailed by visitors, the studio’s schedule is described as having lots of different classes. The studio provides all necessary props—blocks, bolsters, blankets, and more—and offers complimentary tea after class, adding to the nurturing experience. The studio also hosts special workshops, such as a “New Moon: Rest & Renew” session that combines Restorative Yoga, Yoga Nidra, and aromatherapy. These workshops are open to all levels and are included with memberships and class packs, offering opportunities for deeper exploration. Visitors do not mention specific styles like Vinyasa, Hatha, or Yin in their feedback, focusing instead on the overall quality and feeling of the classes.
Accessible Practice with a Commitment to Equity
Dear Yoga Studio offers multiple ways to engage with its community, designed to provide flexibility and remove financial barriers. New students can take advantage of an introductory offer: a first month of unlimited yoga for a reduced rate, which visitors call a fantastic deal that makes it easy to try the studio. After that, options include a drop-in rate, 5-class and 10-class packs valid for three months, and two tiers of unlimited monthly memberships—one with no long-term commitment and an annual contract at a lower monthly rate. Memberships include perks like discounts on workshops and, for the annual plan, free mat rentals.
Perhaps most distinctive is the studio’s explicit equity pricing policy. Acknowledging that finances should not be a barrier to practice, the studio offers discount codes for drop-in classes at 20% to 50% off, with no questions asked. This policy underscores the studio’s goal of creating a space where everyone feels welcome and supported. For those needing to rent a mat, they are available for a small fee. The studio welcomes walk-ins, and doors open 15 minutes before class to allow time to arrive, find parking, and settle in. Visitors do not mention online or virtual class options, corporate programs, or teacher training, indicating the primary focus is on the in-studio, community-based group experience. The studio presents itself as more than just a place for yoga; it’s an invitation to practice often and belong.