Take a ride down to South Street, bring an open-mind, and you’ll find an excellent training and insight right in your own backyard.
What: Temple of the Lotus is a small boutique yoga studio that offers classes based on Ayervedic principles, the ancient Indian art of healing.
Where: Located on the second level of an art deco building on South Street, Temple of the Lotus is a unique find. While there is no designated parking lot for the studio – it’s South Street after all – parking was abundant on Saturday morning and generally available at other times with a little looking.
The Owner: Lilavati, a devoted yogi since 1981 began her career as an aesthetician and massage therapist. She has a resume longer than many celebrity yogis that we willingly pay a week’s salary to spend time with, and her passion surrounds her. Trained in all aspects of Ayurveda, Chakras, Asana and various therapies, Lilavati is a book I could read over and over again. Learn more about Lilavati, click here.
Class Offerings: Their offerings are so distinctive that any yogi would be hard-pressed to find something similar in the Greater Philadelphia Area and beyond. What you won’t find at this South Street boutique studio is the push and sweat of the physically challenging practices that most of us have grown accustomed to. Classes are generally slower-paced and on the gentler side. Lilavati focuses on energy movement and balancing the three doshas (energetic forces)– Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. So you’ve heard these words many times – but what do they really mean? That’s exactly what classes at Temple of Lotus will help you understand.
The class that I attended was a “cooling” practice focusing on releasing the heat that our bodies build and store throughout the summer months. The unique practice and delivery captivated me as I wanted to soak in the expertise that Lilavati was sharing.
The Space: Cozy and warm. The plush carpet might not do well in a hot and sweaty practice, but at Temple of the Lotus it is comforting and welcome, as much of the class happens on the floor. The studio is decorated in deep tones and adorned with tapestries and detail that perfectly reflect Lilavati and the spirituality of the practice.
The Bonus: Lilavati is the creator of an exceptional line of Ayurvedic products. The Aromabliss product line includes skin care products, aromatherapy oils, as well as teas and spices. These specialty products are brewed in her tiny kitchen that is attached to the studio – and she offers a full-line of therapies utilizing her products. A real treat would be to schedule a session directly following one of her classes. She also uses her aromatherapy products regularly during class. Learn more about Aromabliss here: www.aromabliss.com.
Drawbacks? It’s different. It’s gentle. It’s foreign to many. But if you can keep an open-mind and are interested in bringing something new to your practice, this studio has so much value.
As a yoga teacher, I’ve heard many instructors say that they’ve never been taught the chakras or the spiritual aspects of yoga. In most trainings we learn to teach the asana and frankly, that’s all there’s time for. Visiting Temple of the Lotus on regular basis would be an excellent opportunity to add another level of understanding to your practice. You don’t need to take a week of vacation and spend thousands of dollars – just take a trip to South Street.
Please share with us.
nancy denenberg, 8 months ago
I am a student of Lilavati and have practiced with her for many years. This article could not be more spot on yet it only is a drop in the bucket of what yoga with Lilavati provides… lifting of the total being – body, mind, spirit. And her products are the best! It is wonderful to read that others “get” what she is up to and providing.
RaeAnn Banker, 8 months ago
Lilavati is a wonderful teacher, and I’m glad to see her unique offerings are being appreciated! The author makes an excellent point about going away to workshops (at great expense) when authentic, amazing teachings are available around the corner. Her products are the absolute best, too–they’re the only things I use on my skin.
Michaela H., 8 months ago
Lilavati and her studio are the best! The studio is beautiful and has a peaceful energy. Lilavati is a beautiful person who shares her wealth of knowledge with her students. Her classes are for people who want to calm their active minds and remove the stress from their bodies. I’ve been a student of hers for over a decade. There’s no one like her or her products. Temple of the Lotus is a must for anyone looking to quiet their mind and remove the stress from their lives!
Joy Stocke, 8 months ago
I too have been a student of Lilavati for many years. I have incorporated so many of her practices and products into my daily routine and attribute it to my generally excellent health in the face of a very grueling work schedule. The secret? Lilavati teaches us how to incorporate self-care into our lives with the gentleness, wisdom and discipline of her being.
Donna Knowles, 8 months ago
Lilavati and the Temple of the Lotus are absolutely amazing! I’ve been a dedicated student since my first visit a little over 4 years ago and can’t imagine how anyone gets through life without her teaching, nurturing and Aromabliss products. I came to Lilavati experiencing severe migraines and through her expert guidance and ayurvedic practices, they have now signficantly improved. Lilavati also guided me through some major life events helping me see the opportunity within the experience.
I highly recommend that you gift yourself with the Temple of the Lotus experience. No two classes are ever the same — it’s truly like each one is personalized just for you so that you blossum into your own unique beauty…just like a lotus flower!
Come without expectations and an open mind and you too will find bliss! Hope to see you there.
Donna Knowles, 8 months ago
And my review should have included 5 Stars….it would be 10 if it would allow!
Sharon Frenzel, 8 months ago
I am a fairly new student of Lilavati’s, but not a ‘young’ one. Lilavati’s respect and caring for each person’s ability and lack of ability is prevalent in all asana practice. The gentle approach to asana combined with scent of enticing aroma oils, and
beautiful sounds of mantra can escort one to a very deep state of meditation. The decor and atmosphere are beautiful and make a peaceful sanctuary for us to relax and rejuvenate our bodies and spirits. Lilavati has amazing knowledge, utmost abilties, and the generosity of caring and sharing.
Sally Miller, 8 months ago
Lilavati is an exceptional teacher, healer, and Ayurvedic Practitioner. It is an ABSOLUTE blessing that she offers classes and treatments in the heart of Philadelphia. I highly highly recommend the Abhyanga – warm oil massage, it is pure heaven! And Lilavati’s product line, Aromabliss, is made of all the best ingredients, and with so much love and attention. I can’t recommend her enough.