Studio 1831 is a yoga, fitness, and dance studio located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania owned by Valerie Rushmere. She is an experienced yoga, fitness, and dance teacher who promotes yoga, dance and fitness as ways to achieve health and well-being and explore creative possibilities. Voted "Best Philly Yoga Studio" by CityPaper, we take pride in transforming the lives of those in Philadelphia in a beautiful, clean and relaxing atmosphere.
We hold daily and weekly classes and our full studio is also available for rent. Contact us to discuss a fitness schedule or browse our class schedule online to learn how Studio 1831 can enhance your life and your health. Whether you're looking for an energetic dance workout, a technique-based class, or a fun night of dancing, Jeni's new belly dance classes and events at Studio 1831 are sure to please.
We hold daily and weekly classes and our full studio is also available for rent. Contact us to discuss a fitness schedule or browse our class schedule online to learn how Studio 1831 can enhance your life and your health. Whether you're looking for an energetic dance workout, a technique-based class, or a fun night of dancing, Jeni's new belly dance classes and events at Studio 1831 are sure to please.
Services
Yoga at Studio 1831 is not just some class; it is also an all-encompassing life transformation. The lives of Valerie's students- young and old alike-have been positively turned upside down. From the novice to the expert, there are always new things to learn, and Valerie is ready to show you! Embrace heart, embrace health, embrace Hatha.
Interested in learning the mystery and sensuous beauty of an age-old performance art? Belly dance, which is also known as danse orientale, danse du ventre, and raqs sharqi, is not only a way to improve one's health, it is also the perfect way to reconnect with the intimacies of the soul. Visit the Class Schedule page for available classes.
Most classes are held on an ongoing basis (unless noted), so there is no start date or session period. There's also no need to pre-register. Our doors are open to you 5 to 10 minutes prior to each class. Other classes are likely to be scheduled before yours so you may have to wait a few minutes until the earlier class lets out.
This group is for people who love kirtan, meditation, yoga, or for anyone who is curious to experience this heart-opening practice. Kirtan is the ancient practice of call and response singing in the spirit of joy that energizes your prana, opens your heart, expands awareness and promotes healing. Belonging to the path of Bhakti Yoga (Yoga of Devotion), it is also called Devotional Singing.
Studio 1831, located in the heart of the Art Museum neighborhood of Philadelphia, is an intimate performance and presentation space, available for rent for special events such as classes, lectures, workshops, performances, small concerts, and rehearsals. We encourage other people and groups in the Philadelphia and South Jersey areas to utilize the space at Studio 1831.
Reviews (20)
Christian Lars Martinson
Nov 14, 2020
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Stacey B.
Dec 10, 2019
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Val is absolutely the best. She teaches yoga with form that will totally make you stronger and stretchier, with no risk of injury. The flow is incredibly smooth, whether it's an intense class or a chill one (a question, btw, which is usually decided by the mood/desire of the students). She's also just a super nice, relaxed person. Only caveat is that you should like cats--she will remove Batman and Bella from the room upon request, but it's more fun to have them around. Oh, and it's useful to know that class always starts and runs late.
Sonya M.
Nov 30, 2016
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I stayed at Valerie's AirBnB and was pleased to find out she was having a class at her downstairs studio. After my run earlier that morning, I dropped into the class. Valerie was a very good teacher. You can tell she's very knowledgeable about poses and alignment. I also adored the comfy atmosphere. Stop by if you're ever around the Art Museum area!
Nataly N.
Sep 22, 2016
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The instructors are nice and the studio space is comfortable and well-equipped. A huge plus for me that it's only a block away from my residence! I've taken yoga classes here and they were great: they were very relaxing, I learned a lot, and my body felt a lot better after them. Classes are not overcrowded, which makes for more relaxing yoga sessions.
However, a word of caution to those with cat allergies - they do have two cats that sometimes roam freely on the studio floor. While they are adorable, they sometimes show up unexpectedly next to you, and there are few things within a
However, a word of caution to those with cat allergies - they do have two cats that sometimes roam freely on the studio floor. While they are adorable, they sometimes show up unexpectedly next to you, and there are few things within a
Sindhu R.
Aug 31, 2016
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It's an absolute bliss to be at this place! It's calm and soothing and so much positive energy around!! The exercise doesn't drain you out and makes you strong from inside!! And Valerie is such a great person, her individual attention gives so much motivation. I loved being a part of this studio, all thanks to Valerie.
Sari Marissa G.
Mar 09, 2015
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We absolutely LOVE Valerie! We first hired her for our eclectic, ethnic themed wedding 5 years ago. She was perfection. She worked the entire room. She entertained everyone and taught my girls and I some moves. She danced with my husband in the most innocent, non threatening way and I loved it. He did too. So incredibly fun! A perfect unexpected addition for our guests and a match for the vibe we were going for.
I then started taking belly dancing classes at her studio in the art museum area. She pays attention to everyone's level and strengths and weaknesses.
The studio is very inviting
I then started taking belly dancing classes at her studio in the art museum area. She pays attention to everyone's level and strengths and weaknesses.
The studio is very inviting
Michelle P.
Nov 30, 2014
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It has taken me a very long time to write this review, but I think it was necessary for me to experience yoga elsewhere so I can really reflect on my experiences.
My second yoga class ever was at Studio 1831 so I really started here as a newbie.
Valerie is a great yoga instructor who really focuses on form. She is thorough and takes the time to explain and demonstrate the correct stance for each pose. She is patient with each student and truly encourages doing things the right way. For a student with practically no yoga experience, this was the perfect place to start.
However, taking the time
My second yoga class ever was at Studio 1831 so I really started here as a newbie.
Valerie is a great yoga instructor who really focuses on form. She is thorough and takes the time to explain and demonstrate the correct stance for each pose. She is patient with each student and truly encourages doing things the right way. For a student with practically no yoga experience, this was the perfect place to start.
However, taking the time
Cookie M.
Jan 24, 2014
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I have been going to studio 1831 for over 7 years now and finally decided to crack down and write a review.
Val is an amazing teacher (she is also the studio owner), who takes pride is not only healing her students but also teaching them to to heal themselves.
If you want to do hard core fitness yoga this place is not for you. However, if you want to learn how to do yoga right - this is the place!
Having played professional tennis and playing for a d1 school at #1 for 4 years killed my back and shoulder. After 2 years of practicing with val my health issues were gone - magic! Val has taught
Val is an amazing teacher (she is also the studio owner), who takes pride is not only healing her students but also teaching them to to heal themselves.
If you want to do hard core fitness yoga this place is not for you. However, if you want to learn how to do yoga right - this is the place!
Having played professional tennis and playing for a d1 school at #1 for 4 years killed my back and shoulder. After 2 years of practicing with val my health issues were gone - magic! Val has taught
Maura C.
Aug 29, 2013
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Valerie Rushmere's yoga classes are the best I've ever been to. Studio 1831 is a relaxing and soothing oasis in the Fairmount section of Philly where I lived for many years. Today, I'll travel from my home in the suburbs to take Val's great classes. She has everything that makes a yoga teacher wonderful: expert technique, a soothing voice, and a very deep knowledge of poses. Her kinesthetic knowledge lets her see instantly how you can adjust your pose to be correct and more effective. I'd highly recommend her for beginners and experts alike.
Casey R.
Apr 04, 2013
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I really like the yoga classes I have taken at this studio. The classes are small so you can get a lot of hands on attention from the instructor and they aren't as intense as a lot of others I have experienced. I enjoy taking classes here on weekends and leave feeling fully relaxed. It is also the only place that doesn't make me feel like a I'm in competition with the others for who can stretch the farthest. They have a few studio cats that will come do stretches during the classes sometimes too which is the cutest thing I have ever seen.
Laura D.
Jan 11, 2013
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Love this studio for happy hour yoga (Fridays at 6:15). It's a great way to end the week - Vinasa, but a little more relaxed with some "fun" moves thrown in. The class is usually small (~3-8 students when I've been there), making it more intimate. It's a fairly small studio too.
I haven't tried any of the other classes, but one of these days I should try belly dancing!
I haven't tried any of the other classes, but one of these days I should try belly dancing!
Meghan W.
Jan 06, 2013
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Noam Szwergold
Dec 15, 2012
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Mark Lassiter
Dec 03, 2012
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The yoga classes at Studio 1831 are phenomenal! The instructors really pay close attention to proper form and alignment so you feel like you’re getting your own personal trainer when you go. The studio is well-equipped with lots of props like yoga mats, straps, blankets, chairs, and balls, and they know how to use them to help you do all of the poses correctly even if you’re not naturally super flexible. My favorite class is the Restorative Yoga class because it’s soooo relaxing!
Sue Frank
Aug 18, 2012
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I have been going to Studio 1831 since Valerie opened it more than thirteen years ago. It has been my go-to home for superb instruction in Middle Eastern dance, drum circle fun, and friendship. There are two beautiful mirrored studios for classes. Valerie herself offers her peerless expertise in yoga, dance and fitness in a number of classes. Other teachers add their specialties to the roster of offerings. Check it out:-)
Jennifer F.
Dec 20, 2011
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Emily S.
Oct 06, 2011
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This studio is by far the best yoga I've been to in Philly. Full disclosure - I help the owner Val out around the studio, but this has only increased my love of Studio 1831. Because of my passion for her style of teaching, I asked if there was anything I could do to get involved.
Val's philosophy is designed around alignment. She comes around to check your posture and adjust you into the right position in seated, standing, and balance poses. This is not the place to go if you want to be dripping sweat when you leave. But that doesn't mean you won't work hard. What this yoga
Val's philosophy is designed around alignment. She comes around to check your posture and adjust you into the right position in seated, standing, and balance poses. This is not the place to go if you want to be dripping sweat when you leave. But that doesn't mean you won't work hard. What this yoga
Nicey J.
May 15, 2010
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Can I get a hell yeah? I'm not into belly dancing,,, probably bc my dance background is rigid ( ballet) but I love all types of dance and trying something new at a place where its like a giant family is awesome. def a good place to go,,, they offer other thiings too but I've only experienced the belly dancing portion.
Caitlin D.
Mar 13, 2010
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I was excited to try the classes at this studio because I live only a few blocks away. It's been my experience at other studios that it's a good idea to show up early the first time so you have time to register and settle in before class starts. However, the instructor made feel extremely uncomfortable that I arrived early. I ended up being the only person that showed up for the class. It was neat to get a one-on-one session, but I was still turned off by the cold reception I received at the beginning.
A couple weeks later I showed up for another class. I made sure to get there exactly
A couple weeks later I showed up for another class. I made sure to get there exactly
Sara P.
Mar 11, 2010
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I can't believe that no one has reviewed this place!!! I will only be reviewing the belly dance classes, as I have not participated in the variety of other classes offered (including: different yogas, tribal belly dance, zumba, salsa, body conditioning, pilates, cardio kickboxing, and drumming.). Oh, and they also offer a multitude of messages, which I hope to be testing out soon!
This studio is beyond compare! I've taken dance classes since I was three years old (at prestigious schools such as Point Park), and the belly dance classes I have taken here rival any and all in my experience
This studio is beyond compare! I've taken dance classes since I was three years old (at prestigious schools such as Point Park), and the belly dance classes I have taken here rival any and all in my experience
