Let’s face it, even for those of us who live in Tuscany, one of the most beautiful places in the world there is stress – and sometimes we all need to relax and reset our mind and body. One of the best ways to let out all the tension and clean the mind is yoga – and no matter which discipline of yoga you want to practice you will find it here.

We are passionate followers of yoga, and are looking to profile a few of our favorite spots in Tuscany. Luckily for newbies or seasoned experts, there are plenty of options for those looking to stretch it out and tone up with this ancient practice that has grown wildly in popularity from its Eastern roots. The trick with yoga is consistency and time, this isn’t a fast track to slimming down, yet a spiritual and physical challenge from within your body.

Along the cobble-stoned streets in the cradle of Renaissance, Italy It’s Yoga Firenze is located in the center of Florence, not even five minute from the Ponte Vecchio on the historical via de bardi street. It’s Yoga was founded by a fascinating American, the late Larry Schultz, who in the mid 90’s was employed by the iconic band, The Grateful Dead as Jerry Garcia’s personal yoga teacher. At the airy, beautiful studio, they are the only Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga school registered with Yoga Alliance in Florence and have a loyal following of regulars who come to their studio weekly.

Artwork By Katia Giuliani

The beginning of It’s Yoga actually stems from San Francisco, before yoga was cool and university campuses were filled with young coeds carrying yoga mats at every corner. Larry Shultz is the original founder and has traveled back and forth from India and practiced yoga for over 30 years. Using the tools he garnished from traditional yoga methods, he created his own set of more advanced poses (called ‘rocket™’) that can be done by anyone interested. In addition to yoga classes, ‘It’s Yoga’ is also well-known for their teacher training program which has educated thousands of graduates, and opened up many affiliates around the world. Keep in mind that Asthanga is an off-set and more challenging branch of Hatha yoga.

What better place to practice Ashtanga than in a 600 year-old historical building with high-frescoed ceilings and plenty of space. With soft candles lit at night, the vibe is relaxed and comfortable, with changing rooms and a comfortable lounge for guest use. Tea and fruit are often offered in the warm, friendly ambiance. We say climb into some comfortable clothes, and get ready for an experience than is designed to make you feel better, even after the first class. We recommend doing a trial session, to see which version is right for you and to see if ‘the shoe fits.’

What is offered?

From beginners to those who are more advanced, here there is something for everyone.  Classes are taught in English and Italian and range from Beginners Ashtanga / Modified Primary MPS, Rocket1™ / Mixed Levels Ashtanga, Rocket2™. Additionally there is also a ‘happy hour’ class which is a high paced class with more complex poses.

How much?

Student membership:  1 month 65 euros, 3 months,  170 euros

Non-Student Membership:  1 month 80 euros, 3 months 200 euros

10 Class Pass – 90 Euros + CSEN if greater than 10 day stay

5 Class Pass – 50 Euros + CSEN if greater than 10 day stay

LOFT Private 60 Euros/hour or 500 euros for a 10 class pass

More Info

It’s Yoga, via dei Serragli 24r, Florence, Italy. Phone: +39 345 397 4722, website. There are two locations, the original space on via de bardi and a special ‘loft’ for privates or small groups.