Can you believe another year has gone by?

We've survived another winter and it's finally time for my personal favorite time of the year! (cue "It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year" -- Andy Williams version, of course!)

It's time for us to unroll our yoga mats and beach blankets and practice yoga on the beach with the gorgeous sounds of the ocean serving as our soundtrack.

2021 marks my fifth year of "Beach Yoga." What started as a dream -- a place where anyone who wanted to practice yoga could regardless of your age, size, shape or bank account has grown into something so special and beautiful! It is always such a pleasure to welcome so many of you back and I truly can't wait to welcome all of our new beach yogis this year. As I always say, we're only strangers for five minutes.

I've met so many wonderful yogis over the years, but I have to give a very special shout out to Laura, Lori, Nick and Jenn -- the "Core Four" who have been practicing with me on the beach since the very beginning! 

Over the last five years, I've been asked several questions which I decided to put together for you here. 

Please take a moment to read through the FAQ's. If you have any other questions, please don't hesitate to reach out.  

Let's have a great season!

1. Do I need to pay for parking at Robert Moses State Park?

Yes. Parking fees are collected starting at 7am on weekends and holidays and 8am during the week. You can purchase the New York State Empire pass here.

2. Where are classes held? Where do we meet?

Classes are held at Field 2 by the shoreline. If you go to the snack shack and restrooms and walk straight down to the ocean you will see us in front of the Lifeguard Hut and next to the lifeguard stand.

Please remember that we are practicing on the beach, not in a studio. If you are running late, don't worry -- no doors will be locked. Just find a spot and join us when you're settled.

3. How much is the class?

"Beach Yoga" is how I started my yoga teaching career and I am so grateful for the opportunity to do something I love. Originally, this started as a donation-based practice ($5) and as my thank you to the community for giving me my start, I'm happy to say this class remains at $5 per person per class in order to remain consistent with my vision of providing a safe space where a consistent yoga practice can be available to anyone.

Payment for classes can be made at the beach or you can pre-pay for your class when your register. Pre-paid class cards can be purcahsed here. 

For your convenience, I accept cash, Venmo, PayPal and all major credit cards.

4. Do I need to pre-register for a class?

In order to maintain a safe space for all to practice, beginning this year, pre-registration is required for weekend classes and New and Full Moon beach classes only. You are encouraged to pre-register for weekday classes here.

Once registered, you will be able to cancel or move your registration and have the option to pre-pay for your class or classes.

Please be mindful of your registration. As class sizes increase as we get into the summer, there can be a waiting list. If you decide not to attend, please be considerate and cancel so the next person on the wait list can have your spot.

5. Why are the weekend classes so early?

I know! 7am on a weekend seems hard to do! But there is a completely different energy on the beach at that time. It's quiet with very few people and it allows you the opportunity to really unplug and just listen to the sounds of the ocean.

Also, it's a bit cooler at 7am!

6. Can I stay for both classes on Saturdays and Sundays?

Of course! Each class is different. Many beach yogis come to the 7am for a nice stretch before taking the 8:15 class which is more of a flow-based class. 

7. Do I use my mat on the sand?

This is a completely personal decision and like your own yoga practice, you may have to experiment a bit to find what works for you. 

Some people have a beach mat and a studio mat. Some people use a beach blanket or put their mat on top of the blanket. I use either a beach towel or sarong or sometimes just practice in the sand.

8. What happens if it rains? How do we know if class is cancelled?

Rain will definitely cancel classes. I also keep a close eye on the weather and if it looks as if the weather may be "iffy" I will cancel classes.

The best way to be notified of class cancellations and class changes is to pre-register for classes here. You will be notifed by email.

I will also send out a general email, text (if you have provided your cell number) and post on my social media pages.

VERY IMPORTANT: Your safety is my top priority. There are times when I have to cancel a class because of a storm that is out over the ocean, even though it is not raining on the beach. This is a safety precaution taken by the park which we must follow.

9. Do I need to wear a mask?

In keeping with New York State mandates, if you are fully vaccinated, you are not required to wear a mask while praciting on the beach. Of course, please continue to wear a mask if you feel more comfortable doing so.

9. Anything else I should know?

Please remember we are praciting on the beach, outside in the elements. Some days it will be a beautiful day with a light breeze. Some days it will be hot and humid. Sunglasses, sunblock and water are a must! I highly suggest wearing layers particularly at the beginning and end of the season. 

I'm looking forward to having a fun and safe Beach Yoga Season!

~Cyndy