SAMA
faqs
What are "pay-what-you-can" classes?
All regular, drop-in classes are based on a sliding scale rather than a set price, because we believe that everyone should have access to wellbeing. Since our opening in 2011, we've trusted people to give what they can. Some contribute more, some less, and together we create a community where everyone has access to what they need. Please contribute the amount that feels right to you and that helps us sustain our mission of accessibility.
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Please note that workshops, trainings, and other special events do require a minimum donation, but are usually sliding-scale to keep them accessible.
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Sama is 100% community supported. We don't receive grants or other funds. We're able to operate this way thanks to our volunteer teachers. Read more about us here!
What level are your meditation classes?​​
You can read more about our individual meditation offerings here. All meditations are designed to be accessible to beginner practitioners and supportive of those with more experience.
Meditation classes are thirty minutes long and include an intro talk as well as time for shares and discussion after. Classes are recorded, so even if you can't be there live, you can register and receive the recording in your inbox to take at a time that works for you.
What do I need to bring to class?
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Wear loose, comfortable clothing. We have all the props you need and water for your water bottle. If you're coming from work, you can change in the restrooms. We have high quality Liforme yoga mats that are free to use, though some students prefer to bring their own. We have cubbies where you can leave your stuff -- please ensure that your phone is silenced and left in the lobby.
Is yoga a religion?
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Yoga and meditation have been helping human beings navigate life for thousands of years. We’re honored to study, practice, and share these time-tested teachings, and we offer our deepest gratitude to the generations of teachers and practitioners who have preserved this wisdom and carried it forward.
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Yoga has roots in the spiritual traditions of India and South Asia, so you may encounter references to deities, sacred texts, and traditional stories. Yoga is a system of practices designed to help us cultivate awareness, reduce suffering, and better understand ourselves and the world around us. People from many different religious backgrounds—or none at all—can practice yoga.
Where is the entrance to the studio?
We are located on the second floor in Suite #213 in the Arabi Plaza (7011 St Claude Ave, Arabi LA, 70032). The parking lot is behind the Kitchen Table Café patio. From here, you can enter through the exterior stairs.
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Please note that unfortunately there is no elevator access to the second floor.
We're only 4 miles from the French Quarter in the thriving, art-filled Old Arabi neighborhood.
How do I register for class?​
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Please sign up for your class here. We recommend showing up for class at least 10 minutes ahead of time to give you time to put up your things, get out your yoga mat and props, and be prepared for class.
Which class level is right for me?
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If you are completely new, we suggest taking a Yoga Basics class. This class focuses on the fundamentals of the poses and assumes no knowledge of asana. Other class types that are accessible to anyone new to the practice are Slow Flow, Mindful Alignment, and Restorative Yoga.
That said, all classes include a centering practice, modifications for various skill levels and capabilities, and the encouragement to connect to your own inner wisdom.
We use props, offer variations, and keep our pacing mindful so that students can listen to their own bodies and move with intention.
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