Frequently Asked Questions
Below you’ll find a list of frequently asked questions. If you still have questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out!
General
Do I have to pre-register for class?
Students are strongly encouraged to preregister for class at least 15 mins before class time by booking on our website or through the MindBody app; walk-ins cannot be guaranteed space. Please note: online booking becomes unavailable 15 minutes prior to class start time.
How do I cancel or change my class reservation?
Students are responsible for changing and canceling their own class registration. All registration changes can be made within your MindBody account. Please note our cancellation policy — No-shows and late cancellations (within 30 mins of class start time) will still be charged for class: for class pass holders, a class will be removed from your card and unlimited members will be charged a $5 fee.
Do class passes expire?
Yes, class passes expire 12 months after the purchase date. However, please note that sales and discounted class passes typically have 6 month expiration periods.
Does my class pass/membership work at both studios?
Yes! The only membership that does not transfer between the two studios is the $49 BTV New Student Special (valid only at the BTV studio). All other memberships and class passes are transferable between the two studios.
I’m running late - can I still come?
Late admittance cannot be guaranteed, as the doors lock at class start time and we strive to begin promptly. We suggest calling the studio if you are running a few minutes behind and we will do our best to accommodate you, but please know that teachers are managing their own check-ins in addition to leading the group class; Again, late admittance cannot be guaranteed.
If you are going to arrive more than five minutes after class begins, we ask that you not come because it is disruptive to the class.
Can I rent a mat, mat towel, and/or props?
We strongly encourage you to bring your own mat, towels, water bottle, and props whenever possible. We do have yoga mats you can borrow, as well as mats for purchase. Mat-length sweat towels are available for rent ($5), as well as smaller hand towels ($2). Yoga blocks and straps are available to use at the studio free of charge. Blankets and bolsters are available on a limited basis.
How hot is the studio?
The studio is heated between 85 and 90 degrees. Our infrared-heated studios are like a gentle warm hug that your body quickly acclimates to — relaxing muscles, easing pain and stiffness, and promoting energy. Rather than heating the air, our infrared panels warm your body from within, making it much easier to breathe, more therapeutic, and cleaner than traditional forced air heating systems.
Are Power Flow classes only for advanced yoga practitioners?
No! Variations are offered throughout and practitioners of all levels are welcome. Expect to be challenged, while pacing yourself as you see fit, resting as needed, and staying hydrated throughout.
What’s the difference between Power Flow and Vinyasa Flow?
Both classes are flow or Vinyasa-style classes, meaning there is a focused connection between the breath and bodily movements. Power Flow classes are typically quicker-paced with some stronger postures and longer holds, however variations are offered throughout and practitioners of all levels are welcome. Vinyasa classes are considered more moderate. Both classes are suitable for all-levels, and you’re encouraged to go at your own pace and rest as needed. Each teacher has their own style, and each class is unique.
Is my class in Essex or Burlington?
Classes labeled with (EX) are held in the Essex studio, and classes labeled with (BTV) are at the Burlington studio. You can find the address in the confirmation email, too.
How do I park?
The Essex studio has a parking lot. For the Burlington studio, you will have to find parking downtown. There are plenty of parking garages and street parking nearby. We suggest you download the ParkMobile app so you can pay easily for parking. The average parking cost for an hour-long class is around $3. And parking downtown is free on Sundays and select holidays!
Is there an age requirement?
You must be at least 12 years old to practice in the studio, unless attending a specialized Kids Yoga workshop/series. Please note that parents/guardians are required to sign a waiver and accompany students ages 12-15 to class; students age 16 and 17 can practice without a parent present, but their parent/guardian will still need to sign a waiver.
How do online classes work?
Online classes will be listed on the schedule.Class will be held online via Zoom, and the link will be emailed to you upon registration. If you are unable to join the meeting and practice along with the livestream, a class recording will be emailed to you within 12 hours (no need to email SoulShine requesting it). The class recording will be valid for 48 hours. Not receiving confirmation emails with the Zoom link? Check your communication preferences in MindBody and make sure you are opted-in to receiving automated MindBody emails.
What is MindBody?
MindBody is the online system we (and many other studios) use for class scheduling, preregistration, class passes, and memberships. You will have to create a profile for SoulShine in order to register for classes. MindBody can also store your payment and purchase information, keep track of pass usage and past visits, and send you reminders. We highly recommend that you download the free app and take advantage of all it has to offer.
What is your return policy?
Workshops
Workshop purchases will not be refunded. Cancellations made up to 24hr before workshop will be issued as an account credit to be put towards future purchases; No shows, late arrivals, and cancellations made within 24hrs of class start are not eligible for an account credit.
Class Passes
Class Passes are not refundable, but they are transferable and shareable.
Memberships
Memberships are not shareable and are not transferable. Pre-paid memberships cannot be canceled or returned. A Sustaining Membership ($99/mo) can be frozen for up to 30 days once per calendar year, and may be canceled after 6 months of use – both of those options require 30 days written notice in an email sent to [email protected]. If a Sustaining Membership is canceled within 6 months of the initiation date, the cancellation will be subject to a $50 charge.
Retail
May be returned for studio credit only (no refunds) within 14 days of purchase. Product must be in its original condition, unworn/unused in its original packaging.
Do I have to pre-register for class?
Students are strongly encouraged to preregister for class at least 15 mins before class time by booking on our website or through the MindBody app; walk-ins cannot be guaranteed space. Please note: online booking becomes unavailable 15 minutes prior to class start time.
New Students
What is the difference between the $59 New Student Special and the $49 BTV New Student Special?
The $59 New Student Special works at both studio locations. The $49 BTV New Student Special is valid only at the Burlington Studio. If you’re interested in trying both studios, try the $59 New Student Special!
I’ve never practiced yoga before. Where should I begin?
We enthusiastically welcome beginners! Our studio is a non-judgmental and supportive environment. We recommend beginning with a Gentle class so that you can move at a slower pace and ease into the yoga practice. Also keep an eye on our workshops, because we regularly offer Beginners Yoga series that are designed as a thoughtful introduction to yoga.
If you prefer to jump right in, you can absolutely take a Vinyasa or Power style class. Expect to be challenged, while pacing yourself as you see fit, resting as needed, and staying hydrated throughout. It can be uncomfortable being ‘new’ at something, but try not to take yourself too seriously and trust that you’ll catch on quickly.
We suggest letting your teacher know before class if you are new to yoga … they might be able to offer you some tips before or after class!
What should I expect? What should I wear?
Arrive 10-15 mins early to check-in and fill out a studio waiver, and so we can show you around the studio. If you’re comfortable, let your instructor know you are new to yoga so they can offer you some tips before or after class. Wear comfortable clothing that you can move freely and sweat in. Bring a water bottle and yoga mat if you have one (if not, we have some you can borrow at first). You’ll practice barefoot, so don’t worry about footwear.
The primary emphasis of the class is connecting with your breath and finding a breath-body connection that you can sustain throughout the practice. Classes typically begin with a few moments of breathing/grounding, followed by a gradual rise in intensity as you move through postures with your breath. Know that you can always pace yourself, rest, or ‘do you own thing’ as necessary, and without judgment! Class will wind down into what is called savasana — a Sanskrit word meaning corpse pose. Savasana is at the end of practice where you completely relax and let go of all effort. Expect to feel grounded, relaxed, and strong after class.
You’ll get the hang of it quicker than you might expect!
Ready to Make a Change?
Become a member of the SoulShine Community and get started with your yoga practice.
LOCATIONS
SoulShine Essex
1 Market Pl #16
Essex Junction, VT 05452
SoulShine Downtown Burlington
100 Church Street, 3rd Floor
Burlington, VT 05401