Those who keep tabs on local yoga studios may have pondered the location of Spanda Yoga — it's the newest addition to an area that already has three studios nearby (Moksha near Chicago and Ruby Room on Division). But after your first class at Spanda, you'll understand why it's necessary.

First of all, Spanda isn't new. It was recently taken over by students (and certified instructors) of former owner/teacher Mary Samano and gives Ukie Village something that the larger studios can't: an intimate class experience.

This one room space has warm orange walls with lots of paper lanterns hanging from the ceiling. Classes are small (the studio can probably hold up to 10 participants), so if you're looking to really hone your practice with lots of teacher feedback, this is the place. You'll find mostly hatha and vinyasa classes from teachers who were certified through the Temple of Kriya Yoga in Logan Square; restorative and prenatal offerings are also available and as the Spanda student body expands, so may the class types.

The new Spanda is just getting started. Expect workshops and special events in 2009 and don't be surprised if you soon hear your yoga friends buzzing about the divine creative vibration (the translation of Spanda into English) they feel after an experience here.

Centerstage Reviewer: Maya Henderson