California Yoga Center

A No-Frills Gem in the Heart of Palo Alto

In today’s modern yoga scene, it can be pretty challenging to walk into a yoga studio without getting caught up in the material trappings—Eastern accessories, special-weave yoga mats, or the latest fashionable yoga wear.

Don’t get me wrong, I love a good yoga mat as much as the next person, but this past December, I stumbled upon a studio that stripped away all the extras. Enter: The California Yoga Center in Palo Alto.

The Studio with a Story

Tucked away in downtown Palo Alto, just off University Avenue, sits one of the oldest yoga studios on the San Francisco Peninsula: The California Yoga Center.

Originally founded in 1974, back when it was called the Yoga Center of Palo Alto, it was the only yoga studio within 30 miles. Talk about an OG of the yoga community.

First Impressions: Simplicity at Its Finest

As soon as I walked in, I was greeted by beautiful, intricate photographs of nature lining the hallway.

Turns out, the photographer is none other than Larry Hatlett, a senior Iyengar instructor at the studio who owned and helped manage it for most of its life.

The studio itself is refreshingly simple—no front desk, no computer, no hustle and bustle. Just students chatting casually and getting ready for class.

The natural light fills the room with a soft, buttery glow, and yoga props are neatly stacked in one corner. Everything about this place whispers, “Relax, you’re here now.”

The BackCare Class with Elise Miller

My first class was “BackCare” with Elise Miller, a senior Iyengar instructor and the founder of The California Yoga Center.

Elise specializes in helping people with back challenges, and she runs the class in the most down-to-earth way possible.

There were no distractions—just Elise’s soothing voice, the focus on the practice, and that calming vibe of the studio.

It’s amazing what a difference an uncluttered environment can make for your yoga practice.

Round Two: Closing the Year with Karl Duffy

A week later, I found myself back for the last class of the year, this time taught by Karl Duffy. He’s also a long-time Iyengar teacher, and I instantly felt at ease thanks to his warm smile and easygoing approach.

Oh, and finding street parking was a breeze—no need to stress about the parking structure behind the studio. In class, Karl encouraged us to use the hardwood floor for our standing poses rather than our mats.

I learned that these floors were designed with bare feet in mind—they’re slightly sticky, and it made me feel like I could plant myself into the earth just a little deeper.

Near the end of class, Karl guided us through viloma 2, a gentle breathing exercise that was the perfect way to wrap things up.

A Peaceful Escape in Downtown Palo Alto

In the midst of Palo Alto’s busy downtown, this studio is like a sanctuary for anyone wanting to focus purely on yoga. I’m sure I’m not the only one who loves how clean, simple, and downright peaceful it is.

According to Larry Hatlett, the goal has always been to create a student-oriented space where people can come to find peace of mind, guided by highly trained teachers.

Why You Should Roll Out Your Mat Here

If you’re searching for a studio that’s all about the yoga and less about the flash, The California Yoga Center in Palo Alto might just be your new favorite spot.

It’s got the history, the heart, and that good old-fashioned focus on what really matters—your practice. Come for the yoga, stay for the peace of mind.

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1776 Miramonte Ave, Mountain View, CA 94040, United States
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