Get Zen At Element Natural Healing Arts

While many of us schedule an annual spring cleaning for our homes, it's equally as important to clear out toxic energies from the body and soul. Lucky for Carroll Gardens neighbors, there's a nearby resource for doing just that.

A full-service spa for 11 years, takes a holistic approach to wellness. The center renews, relaxes and refreshes its clientele with a dizzying array of treatments, such as massage, facials, reflexology and ear candling administered by board-certified acupuncturists, Chinese herbalists and massage therapists.

But what many don't realize is that a yoga studio exists just upstairs, accessed through a separate entrance, and offering a range of specialized classes at the decidedly low drop-in price of $12.

"We're definitely trying to fill the void of not being just another Vinyasa studio," said Dawn Phillips, Classes Coordinator for Element Natural Healing Arts. "We're known for healing and treatments, so the classes have been created as an extension of that."

For instance, Yoga for Fertility, which was developed by owner Christina Morris, who specializes in maternity reflexology. 

"This class is designed for people who are getting fertility treatments or thinking about having a baby," explained Phillips. "This way they can take a more active role. It's very specialized and that's basically our mentality."

Another class, Acu-Yoga, provides clients with information about what points are stimulated as you perform various postures and how to administer self-acupressure at home.

Other popular recent additions include Melt Method, which teaches self-care using foam rollers, Hypnobirthing, and a Wednesday "Wake Up and Stretch" morning class for just $10.

"We are also holding a free community yoga class, which is currently on Tuesday mornings," said Phillips. "We feel it's really important to give back to the community where we can."

In-the-know customers told Patch that part of the appeal of yoga classes at Element is the airy space itself.

"Yoga classes at Element are great because they're small, and thus the instructors can be very attentive to your needs," said Sharon Gordon, a client. "They can help you have a good session even if you're adapting to an injury or ailment." 

The upstairs studio fits a maximum of 12 people, but usually holds 8 to 10 clients, which is quite small compared to other area classes. 

The adjoining sun room, depending on the day, may be reserved for workshops or individual treatments. And when the weather gets really warm, an outdoor roofdeck becomes a sun-filled yoga classroom for reconnecting with the self.

Even if you're not a die-hard poser, it's easy to try out a beginners class: Mat rental is free, and tea tree oil and mat wipes are made available for all guests.

In addition to yoga classes, the second-floor space has played host to art shows, showers, and other catered events, as it includes a working kitchen.

"We're really open to anything and want to provide as many resources for our customers as possible," said Phillips. "Once people realize the space exists, they love it. I attend the yoga classes myself and I almost want to keep it a secret."

Discover Element Natural Healing Arts yoga classes and let Patch know what you think.