Most yoga studios offer classes targeting yoga virgins, and any good instructor will offer alternative positions during class for those who don't feel ready to attempt particularly challenging or awkward poses. But Exhale's approach of pampering both the mind and body make it an ideal locale for nervous newbies.

The booming wooden doors at the studio entrance and the gong at the front of the room (which the instructor sounds at the end of class) introduce the tone of class at this combination spa/studio. The instructor emphasizes harmonizing your breathing with your movement and walks around throughout the class to push your stretch a touch further or readjust your positioning. You'll also find props like yoga blocks to help ease your body into a pose if your flexibility isn't what it quite up to speed. If you're lucky, the resident acupuncturist drops in during the last five minutes of class to offer those inclined the chance to experience one needle's worth of acupuncture and tuning forks.

Words of advice: Be sure to bring a change of clothes so that you can take advantage of the luxurious changing room. Not only will you find plush towels, you're also welcome to slip into a full-length robe and sandals after stepping into Exhale's steam room. The tile showers feature high-arching showerheads that stream like waterfalls and complimentary accoutrements of Exhale's signature green tea and seaweed hair care and body products.

Centerstage Reviewer: Jessica Herman