Pay-What-You-Can-Yoga Movement Growing in Minneapolis

Yoga Sol, the only donation-based yoga studio in Minneapolis, is growing. Entirely funded through student donations, the studio will expand to meet student demand and feature 25 teachers (previously nine) guiding 30 weekly classes (previously 13).

Yoga Sol, the only yoga studio of its kind in Minneapolis, is hosting an Open House to kick off their new winter schedule on December 7. The schedule features 25 teachers, guiding 30 weekly classes in styles varying from Vinyasa Flow to Yoga Sculpt. The Open House provides an opportunity to sample the studio with a complimentary class.

Yoga Sol opened its doors on May 1 with a mission to make yoga accessible to all. Though the studio is the first of its kind here in Minneapolis, it is connected to a larger movement of studios across the country that offer yoga on a pay-what-you-can basis. Yoga is a $27 billion a year industry, and with rates often as high as $20 per class, money can be a barrier. Yoga Sol aims to change this, and is funded entirely through student donations.

"I think a valid criticism of the westernization of yoga is that it has such an intensely commercial aspect to it. It can be exclusive and intimidating in an odd way," says yoga student and local musician, Brian Laidlaw. "It means a lot to me to be a part of a studio that tries to move away from that model and mentality."

Event Details

When: Friday, December 7, 2012 from 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.
Where: 21 5th Street NE, Minneapolis, MN 55413


Event Schedule

5:30 - 6:00 p.m. Meet & Greet
6:00 - 6:30 p.m. Complimentary Vinyasa Flow class
6:30 - 7:00 p.m. Complimentary Yoga Sculpt class
7:00 - 7:30 p.m. Mix & Mingle with traditional tea tasting


Photo and Interview Opportunities

Media is encouraged and welcome to attend. Yoga Sol teachers, students and volunteers will be available for interviews and video/photo opportunities.