Yoga Union, Portland

As its name attests, Yoga Union is all about togetherness, valuing the strength and support of its student community over the athleticism of its members. Although this community is made up of people from all over the city, its roots are firmly planted in the surrounding Mount Tabor neighborhood; many of the highly trained teachers come primarily from the surrounding homes speckled across the scenic countryside. In fact, residents Annie Adamson and Todd Vogt—who would eventually become co-owners of the studio—fell in love with each other as students at Yoga Union, a testament to the close-knit, supportive atmosphere of the studio.

During the nonjudgmental classes, natural light spills in from the windows onto open flooring, illuminating a space where bodies of all builds and experience levels stretch, breathe, and hone their "Om" yodeling skills in rhythm.