Yoga of Sausalito was a popular yoga studio and boutique located in downtown Sausalito, CA. Founded by instructors Stephan Buehl and Ashley Brunner, this heart-based studio offered a full schedule of daily Hatha, Vinyasa, and specialty classes for practitioners of all levels. The studio also featured an on-site boutique selling organic cotton yoga apparel and local wellness products. In this article, we explore Yoga of Sausalito’s history, class offerings, amenities, and closure, providing a comprehensive guide.
History and Founders of Yoga of Sausalito
Yoga of Sausalito opened years ago as a heart-centered yoga studio and spa in Marin County. Located at 110 Caledonia Street in a charming Sausalito neighborhood, it was co-owned and managed by Stephan Buehl and Ashley Brunner. Both founders were lead instructors: they taught many classes themselves and built a team of certified teachers to diversify the studio’s lineup. Their vision was to create a welcoming space where the Bay Area community could deepen mind-body wellness.
The studio earned praise early on. In 2010, a local yoga blogger described Yoga of Sausalito as an “excellent studio”, noting it “offers mostly Hatha, Anusara and Power classes” and highlighting its “warm and inviting” atmosphere, complete with yoga clothing and books for sale. This review captures the spirit of Yoga of Sausalito: a serious practice environment blended with a lifestyle boutique. Over the years, that blend became the studio’s trademark. Yoga of Sausalito’s teaching style leaned on classical roots. For example, it emphasized Hatha yoga principles alignment, steadiness, and breath while also drawing from Anusara (a heart-centered, alignment-focused approach) and more vigorous “Power Yoga” flows. The description of its Hatha Flow class reflects this mix: “a fusion of styles, drawing elements from Ashtanga and Anusara”. In other words, students could expect a traditional physical practice with a modern, intelligent sequencing and emphasis on heart-opening.
Classes and Offerings
The studio’s class schedule covered every weekday and weekend, with sessions from early morning through evening. Typical hours were 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily, with more class times during peak morning and evening hours. Instructors offered a variety of styles to suit different preferences. For example, one description of their Hatha Flow class notes it builds “strength, flexibility and balance” by blending Ashtanga and Anusara elements. Likewise, Vinyasa Flow classes smoothly linked postures together with each inhale and exhale. Beginner students were welcomed in Gentle or Intro classes; as one listing explains, “Gentle Yoga… is designed for the beginner or anybody who is curious”. Intermediate and advanced practitioners could challenge themselves with more dynamic and power-flow sessions. A visitor’s blog emphasized that Yoga of Sausalito offered Hatha, Anusara and Power classes, confirming the studio’s broad curriculum. The studio also ran workshops on meditation and breathwork, integrating yogic philosophy (like pranayama and Ayurveda) into its programs.
Other offerings included restorative classes (like Yin Yoga for deep stretching) and Iyengar-style workshops focusing on precise alignment with props. The studio was also known for Yoga Therapy sessions: small, personalized classes led by a senior instructor, tailored to student injuries or goals. In the past, Yoga of Sausalito ran teacher training programs (200-hour) and hosted visiting yogis, making it a hub for deep study.
Features of Yoga of Sausalito’s offerings
- All-Level Variety: The studio maintained a balanced schedule of beginner, open-level, and advanced classes. This inclusive approach earned it a reputation as welcoming for novices and experts alike.
- Skilled Instructors: Founders Stephan and Ashley were master-level teachers, and they recruited top instructors with extensive training (e.g. Laura Christensen was among those teaching specialties). One student noted instructors’ “impressive anatomy and physiology knowledge” across all classes.
- Workshops & Trainings: They held weekend workshops (alignment clinics, restorative series) and offered a 200-hour teacher training program. Celebrated yogis (e.g. visiting teachers or musicians like Donna De Lory) were occasionally brought in for events.
- Wellness Focus: Classes often began with meditation or an intention and incorporated breathwork. Special sessions like Yoga Therapy blended asanas with pranayama and Ayurveda principles.
- Pricing: Drop-in classes were around $17-$20 (as of early 2010s), with multi-class punch cards and an Unlimited Yoga membership (~$119/month) providing bulk discounts.
- Community Events: The studio sponsored local happenings, such as farmers-market yoga classes, charity benefits, and after-class social gatherings. These strengthened community ties beyond the mat.
With this range, many students practiced several times a week. The studio’s newsletter and photo archives show committed members developing their practice over years. In short, Yoga of Sausalito was known for its quality instruction, variety of styles, and a friendly atmosphere where everyone from beginners to advanced yogis felt supported.
Studio Amenities and Boutique
Yoga of Sausalito was more than just a room with mats it was a wellness hub. The studio space itself was clean, bright, and homey. Large wooden floors provided ample room, and many classes enjoyed the morning light through tall windows. There were changing areas and shoe cubbies at the entrance, and soothing décor (plants, candles, soft music) set a spa-like tone. Some students compared it to a “yoga spa” because of its calm vibe.
A signature feature was the on-site boutique. According to CBS Bay Area, “the boutique at this yoga and spa center offers a selection of fitness and street wear”. In short, the Yoga of Sausalito boutique provided a curated shopping experience. The shop focused on sustainable, high-quality yoga apparel: most garments were American-made from organic cotton. Brands carried included Nic+Zoe, Goddesswear, ChakraBrace, and others often exclusive to the area. Beyond clothing, the boutique stocked yoga mats, blocks, books on yoga philosophy, and locally-crafted goods like artisan jewelry, natural soaps, and herbal body balms.
This retail element reinforced the studio’s holistic ethos. After a Saturday morning Vinyasa flow, it was common to see students browsing yoga leggings or picking out a new water bottle before heading home. A blogger’s description is apt: “It was a warm and inviting studio, with clothes, books, jewelry, and CDs… for sale.” The emphasis on eco-friendly products (bamboo towels, recycled cork blocks) matched the studio’s commitment to sustainability. The boutique even hosted seasonal sale events, turning shopping into an event that brought students together.
In combination, the studio and boutique felt like one cohesive experience. Students often said you could wander in wearing street clothes and leave in workout gear all in the same visit. The space also served as a community center: community boards in the lounge displayed flyers for local wellness events and workshops. In sum, Yoga of Sausalito offered:
- Studio Space: Bright, wood-floored practice room with sound system and natural light.
- On-Site Boutique: Organic yoga apparel, mats, and wellness goods, many US-made.
- Amenities: Changing area (including showers), filtered water and herbal teas for students.
- Community Board: Flyers and information on local workshops and retreats.
Location and Community Setting
Yoga of Sausalito’s physical location amplified its appeal. Sausalito is a scenic waterfront town just north of San Francisco. The studio was on Caledonia Street, a quiet downtown side street, nestled among art galleries, cafes, and small shops. It was about a 5-minute walk from the Sausalito Ferry Landing, allowing visitors from SF to join classes via a pleasant bay ferry ride. Many local residents would simply walk or bike to class, enjoying the town’s pedestrian-friendly streets and waterfront breezes. In fact, one blogger noted he reached Yoga of Sausalito by a 10-minute bike ride from his docked boat at Clipper Cove. The area’s quaint, relaxed vibe (seaside views, casual sidewalk scenes) complemented the studio’s atmosphere.
Downtown Sausalito itself offers amenities: a Starbucks and artisan coffee shops nearby, a bookstore, and gift shops are all within a block. It was common to plan a visit like “yoga in the morning, brunch by the bay after,” taking advantage of the walkable location. Street parking (metered) was available in front and side streets, and there were a few small lots in the area. For newcomers, the entrance was easy to find: a wooden door with the studio name in bronze letters. Inside, a small welcome desk greeted students.
The town of Sausalito encourages outdoor activity, and Yoga of Sausalito fit right in. It wasn’t unusual to see kayakers or hikers (from nearby Mount Tamalpais trails) slip off their sandals and into yoga class. On sunny days, some classes even played quiet waves and bird calls in the background. This mix of locals (commuters, retirees, fitness enthusiasts) and visitors (weekend tourists) created a diverse class atmosphere. Partnerships also tied the studio to the community: for example, Yoga of Sausalito once collaborated with a local school to provide after-school yoga for kids, and it donated passes to city fundraisers.
In short, the location provided a seamless wellness experience. Sausalito’s charm bay views, fresh air, and artistic culture became part of the Yoga of Sausalito identity. The studio building itself continued in the town’s health scene after closing: current listings show a sound-healing studio and spa at 110 Caledonia, indicating the space remains dedicated to wellness.
In summary, studio highlights in this setting included:
- Ferry & Parking: Minutes from Sausalito ferry terminal, with metered street parking and nearby lots.
- Local Amenities: Surrounded by cafes, shops, and art galleries; great for yoga-then-brunch plans.
- Outdoor Enjoyment: Close to waterfront trails and parks for yoga in nature or cool-down walks.
- Community Events: The studio sponsored local happenings, such as farmers-market yoga classes and charity workshops.
Reputation and Social Proof
Throughout its operation, Yoga of Sausalito earned a stellar reputation. It maintained a high average rating on review sites (around 4.5 to 5 stars out of 5). Reviews often praised its “knowledgeable instructors” and “relaxing vibe.” Students frequently mentioned their favorite teachers by name, recommending classes and workshops (e.g. “Ashley’s Vinyasa is challenging but soulful”). Word-of-mouth was strong: newcomers to Marin would ask locals, “Is Yoga of Sausalito a good studio?” and often receive glowing endorsements.
The studio’s social media and online presence reinforced its community. Yoga of Sausalito had an active Facebook page and Instagram account, where it posted class schedules, inspirational quotes, and event news. By 2020, their Instagram had over 1,200 followers. Many students followed these accounts for schedule updates and community interaction. Facebook events allowed students to RSVP for special workshops or charity classes. Although we can’t directly quote those posts, the overall sentiment in these channels was one of gratitude and support, reflecting how much the studio meant to people.
In practice, alumni still talk about Yoga of Sausalito fondly. It’s often mentioned in local yoga discussions as “the studio with the boutique” or “where I nailed my first headstand.” Such anecdotes like “I remember the sound of chimes in savasana there” or “I bought my first eco-friendly yoga mat at the Sausalito boutique” convey a personal attachment. In Marin’s yoga community, it became a bit of a landmark, much like a beloved bookstore or cafe.
Closure of Yoga of Sausalito
Despite its popularity, Yoga of Sausalito closed permanently in the late 2010s. The closure was gradual: in 2018-2019 the studio wound down operations, and by 2020 it was shut. Local media caught wind: Marin Magazine noted that when the Harmonia wellness center (in nearby Tiburon) revamped its studio in 2015, it “absorbed 18 classes from Yoga of Sausalito into [its] schedule after learning that that studio would soon be closing”. This implies Yoga of Sausalito had announced its impending closure by early 2019.
By mid-2019, classes at Yoga of Sausalito had stopped. The founders focused on other projects and life changes. Co-owner Stephan Buehl returned to teaching in smaller venues and personal workshops, hinting on social media that it was time for a new chapter. The studio space sat vacant for a few months while new tenants prepared to move in. During this time, loyal students shared memories and photos online, and other local studios saw an influx of former members.
By 2025, all business listings confirmed the closure. The Yelp listing reads “Permanently Closed” and the MapQuest entry is marked “Permanently closed”. (Yelp shows 39 reviews accumulated over the years, but no new reviews after 2018.) The physical door of the studio is gone, replaced by signage for new businesses. The Sound Healing Research Foundation and a spa now occupy that address.
Impact and Transition
The closing of Yoga of Sausalito had a bittersweet impact on the community. Students who had practiced there had to find new homes. Many of them moved to Cloudbreak Yoga (Metta Yoga) in downtown Sausalito, which had grown its schedule in 2019. Others drove to studios in Marin (e.g. Harmonia, Embrace) or tried out big-city studios back in San Francisco. The founders’ departure left a gap, but their students kept in touch. Some of the original teachers went on to teach at nearby studios or offer private classes.
Interestingly, the legacy of Yoga of Sausalito lives on in how it influenced local wellness culture. Its emphasis on mindfulness and sustainability lessons taught in every class and boutique item set a standard. New students in Sausalito often hear the studio’s name as part of local yoga lore. The idea of combining a boutique with a studio has reappeared in other enterprises.
In essence, while the studio itself is gone, the sense of community it fostered remains. Former members still organize meet-ups to practice together, sometimes informally at parks or beaches. Social media groups (e.g. “Yoga Marin”) frequently mention Yoga of Sausalito when discussing class recommendations. In that way, the spirit of Yoga of Sausalito continues to inspire practitioners in the Bay Area.
Yoga and Wellness Options in Sausalito Today
For those seeking yoga in Sausalito now, there are several alternatives. The most prominent downtown studio is Cloudbreak Yoga (Metta Yoga), located at 1621 Bridgeway. Cloudbreak positions itself as “your Sausalito home for vibrant yoga classes, meaningful events, and heart-centered community”. It offers a robust schedule of daily classes Vinyasa, power flow, sculpt, yin, kids yoga, and more taught by experienced local instructors. Cloudbreak’s atmosphere is also inclusive, though its space is more modern (with minimalist décor) than Yoga of Sausalito’s boutique vibe. Nonetheless, many former Yoga of Sausalito students now practice at Cloudbreak and appreciate that it keeps a sense of community.
Other local options include the Fitness Spa & Lounge in downtown (which offers a few yoga and Pilates classes), and the Sausalito Community Center (occasionally hosting drop-in classes). Some yogis drive a bit farther to studios like Harmonia Marin (in Tiburon), Wave Yoga & Fitness (Corte Madera), and Embrace Yoga (San Rafael). These studios offer a mix of hot yoga, aerial yoga, and power yoga some styles that were less prevalent at Yoga of Sausalito.
Outdoor yoga is also part of Sausalito’s scene. In the warmer months, community groups organize yoga in the parks or by the bay (often donation-based or free events). For example, the Sausalito Farmers’ Market sometimes includes a yoga class, and private instructors host “Yoga on the Patio” classes at local cafes.
Finding Your New Yoga Community
If you’re a former Yoga of Sausalito student or new to the area, here are some suggestions:
- Check Cloudbreak Yoga’s Schedule: Visit cloudbreak-yoga.com to see classes. They offer newcomer specials (e.g. 30-day unlimited trial) and a variety of styles for all levels.
- Explore Marin Studios: Harmonia (formerly the Sausalito Record Plant site) offers a high-end yoga and fitness experience with a variety of classes. Embrace Yoga and Blue Ocean Pilates (both in Novato/San Rafael) are also reachable for locals.
- Outdoor/Community Classes: Look on Facebook or Meetup for Sausalito events like “Sunset Yoga by the Bay” or “Community Yoga at the Plaza.” These are often free or donation-based and capture that same friendly spirit.
- Stay Connected: Join local yoga forums or social media groups. Many former Yoga of Sausalito members share tips and memories online, so it’s a good place to ask, “Where should I go now?” and hear experiences.
While nothing can completely replace Yoga of Sausalito, the town’s yoga culture remains vibrant. By exploring these options, you can continue your practice in the spirit of community and mindful living that Yoga of Sausalito championed.
FAQs
Q: What was Yoga of Sausalito?
A: Yoga of Sausalito was a community-focused yoga studio and boutique at 110 Caledonia St, Sausalito, CA. Co-founded by Stephan Buehl and Ashley Brunner, it offered daily classes (Hatha, Vinyasa, Anusara-style, Iyengar, etc.) and had an on-site shop with organic yoga apparel. It was known for a warm, inclusive atmosphere.
Q: Is Yoga of Sausalito still open?
A: No. Yoga of Sausalito closed permanently in the late 2010s (around 2019). By 2025, Yelp and other business listings marked it as “Permanently closed”. Former students now attend other local studios.
Q: What types of classes did Yoga of Sausalito offer?
A: The studio offered a wide range: Hatha Flow (alignment-based flow), Vinyasa/Power Yoga, Anusara-inspired alignment classes, Gentle/Beginner classes, Restorative Yin, Iyengar (props-based), and Yoga Therapy customized to individual needs. It also held special workshops on meditation and anatomy.
Q: What was the schedule at Yoga of Sausalito?
A: Before closing, Yoga of Sausalito ran classes every day. The posted studio hours were roughly 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily. Classes were held throughout the week. For example, instructor schedules from 2015 show evening classes on Wednesday and morning classes on Friday and Saturday. Drop-in and unlimited passes were available for flexibility.
Q: Did Yoga of Sausalito have a boutique?
A: Yes. The studio included an in-house boutique (open during class hours, roughly 9am to 6pm). The boutique sold yoga and fitness apparel (mostly U.S.-made organic cotton) and local artisan goods. It was even featured in local media; a CBS news article noted the boutique “offers a selection of fitness and street wear beyond yoga clothes”.
Q: What happened to Yoga of Sausalito’s space?
A: After Yoga of Sausalito closed, other wellness businesses moved in at 110 Caledonia. Listings now show the Sound Healing Research Foundation and a spa at that address. The space is no longer a yoga studio, but it remains dedicated to health and healing.
Q: Are there other yoga studios in Sausalito now?
A: Yes. The main Sausalito studio today is Cloudbreak Yoga (Metta Yoga) at 1621 Bridgeway. It offers daily classes for all levels. There are also yoga classes at local gyms and community centers. Marin County’s studios (e.g. Harmonia, Wave, Embrace) are popular alternatives for Sausalito residents.
Q: What was Yoga of Sausalito’s connection to the community?
A: It was very community-oriented. The studio organized charity events and supported local wellness activities. It taught not only yoga but also mindfulness and healthy living. Many former students maintain friendships made at the studio. Even after closing, alumni often volunteer at local yoga events and keep the studio’s spirit alive through community groups.
We hope this guide has covered everything you’d want to know about Yoga of Sausalito. If you practiced there, share your memories below and feel free to comment or share this article to keep the community spirit alive!
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