About Us
The Black Yoga Room isn’t about ethnicity.
It’s a feeling. A vibe. A return to self.
Here, “Black” is a metaphor for stillness, depth, and the sacred unknown.
It’s the quiet space within where darkness holds wisdom, and light rises from the inside out.
Born from a journey of healing and reconnection, this sanctuary was created to offer rest, reflection, and renewal to all who enter.
Here, softness and strength meet.
The breath leads. The body is honored. Presence is enough.
Whether you’re new to the mat or returning after a long season, you are welcome here.
Rooted in lived experience and open to all, The Black Yoga Room is a space where community, safety, and self-discovery thrive. Come as you are, and stay as you grow.
Crystal
Creator, The Black Yoga Room
Crystal moves with intention—in fitness, in practice, and in life. A natural leader, she’s been at the front of the toughest PT sessions in the Army, owned the stage as a bodybuilding champion, and trained countless clients to become their strongest selves. But yoga taught her something different: how to slow down, listen in, and let breath lead the way.
Based in Huntsville, AL, Crystal is the founder of Puzzle Fit and co-owner of The Black Yoga Room. Her approach to wellness is rooted in balance, blending five essential elements: Nutrition, Strength, Cardio, Yoga, and Rest.
Drawn to the rhythm and discipline of Ashtanga, Crystal found a practice that softened her strength and deepened her connection with herself and her students. She brings that same grounded energy into every room she steps into, holding space for others to grow, breathe, and belong.
Meet the Teacher
CRYSTAL
Creator, The Black Yoga Room
Crystal moves with intention—in fitness, in practice, and in life. A natural leader, she’s been at the front of the toughest PT sessions in the Army, owned the stage as a bodybuilding champion, and trained countless clients to become their strongest selves. But yoga taught her something different: how to slow down, listen in, and let breath lead the way.
Based in Huntsville, AL, Crystal is the founder of Puzzle Fit and co-owner of The Black Yoga Room. Her approach to wellness is rooted in balance, blending five essential elements: Nutrition, Strength, Cardio, Yoga, and Rest.
Drawn to the rhythm and discipline of Ashtanga, Crystal found a practice that softened her strength and deepened her connection with herself and her students. She brings that same grounded energy into every room she steps into, holding space for others to grow, breathe, and belong.
Ashtanga Yoga Mantras
Book Your Class
- Crystal -
Schedule
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
(Private Sessions Only)
8:30–9:30 — Ashtanga Yoga
8:30–9:30 — Beginners Ashtanga
Available 11:00–2:00
6:00–7:00 — Ashtanga Yoga
6:00–7:00 — Ashtanga Inspired
Must book and prepay at least 24 hours in advance
Thursday
8:30–9:30 — Ashtanga Yoga
Friday
Closed
6:00–7:00 — Beginners Ashtanga
Saturday
9:00 – 9:45 — Express Ashtanga
10:00 – 10:30 — Strength
Sunday
9:00–10:15 — Ashtanga Yoga
Learn More About Each Class
Ashtanga Yoga
A modified Half Primary Series Ashtanga is a beginner-friendly, of the first part of the Ashtanga Primary Series which includes modifications to postures to make the practice more accessible for various levels of flexibility and strength. It features a shortened sequence, often focusing on the standing, seated, the seated sequence up to Navasana and closing asanas, and may incorporate easier variations of complex poses to accommodate beginners, those with injuries, or individuals with limited flexibility and time. Modified Postures: Instead of attempting the full, traditional Half Primary Series, this version offers variations of poses to ensure everyone can participate safely and effectively. Surya Namaskar: The practice typically begins with 5 Suryaa Namskar A & 3 Surya Namskar B These sequences can be modified to suit different levels. Reduced Sequence Length: The number of postures may be fewer than the full Half Primary, or the class may be shortened to about an hour or less to fit a tighter schedule.
Beginner Ashtanga
This is a great way for new yoga practitioners to experience Ashtanga without the intensity of the full series. Accessible for All Levels: It's also suitable for experienced practitioners who are returning to practice after a break, are recovering from an injury, or are simply seeking a gentler, more restorative practice. Emphasis on Core Elements: The focus remains on building strength, flexibility, and a connection to the breath, just like the full series, but in a more manageable format. Use of Props: Students are often encouraged to use props like yoga blocks to make postures more comfortable and accessible.
Express Ashtanga
An Ashtanga short form is a condensed, 45-minute version of the longer Ashtanga Primary Series, designed for busy days or beginners. It includes the foundational elements of the full sequence, such as chanting the opening and closing mantras, Surya Namskar A & B sanding, seated, and finishing postures, while maintaining Ujjayi breath and a focus on technique over the amount of work. Condensed sequence: It's an approximation of the full Primary Series, making it accessible for those with limited time. Focus on fundamentals: The core techniques, including the vinyasa (connecting breath to movement) and the rhythm of the breath, are central to the practice. Ujjayi breath: deep, steady breath with a soft, ocean-like sound is maintained throughout the practice to create a steady mind and body. Modifications: The practice offers modifications for different needs, emphasizing proper alignment over pushing too deep into postures. Comprehensive: Despite its length, it covers a range of postures, including Surya Namaskar A & B, standing poses, seated poses, and a closing sequence.
Yoga Strength: (private sessions available also)
A dynamic fusion class designed to elevate your practice and enhance your overall fitness! In this innovative session, we’ll combine traditional yoga principles with strength training techniques to create a comprehensive total body workout. In Yoga Strength, attendees will incorporate light to moderate weights into their routines, targeting all major muscle groups while still cultivating balance, flexibility, and mindfulness. Each class will begin with a grounding warm-up, followed by a total body trevrh with dumbbells session that will challenge your muscles and improve your endurance. Chaturanga Strengthening Drills: Master the foundation of this essential yoga pose with specific exercises designed to build the necessary strength and control. We’ll break down the mechanics of Chaturanga to ensure proper alignment and technique, helping you cultivate a stable and powerful foundation for all your yoga practices. Jump Forward and Back Fundamentals: Unlock the secrets of fluid and powerful transitions! We’ll explore drills that focus on jump-throughs and jump-backs, emphasizing coordination, core strength, and breath control. Our step-by-step approach will help you build confidence and ease in these challenging movements. Total Body Engagement: From lunges to squats, each segment of the class is designed to ensure that your whole body is engaged. Expect to challenge your strength and stamina while still honoring the mindfulness and intentionality of yoga. Join us for a transformative experience that not only strengthens your body but also deepens your connection between movement and breath. Whether you’re a seasoned yogi or new to the mat, this class welcomes individuals of all levels looking to elevate their practice and build strength. Bring your weights, an open mind, and a sense of adventure!
Handstand training: (private sessions)
Handstand Training for Beginners and Intermediates Join us for a dynamic and supportive 45-minute Handstand Training class designed for both beginners and intermediate practitioners! This class is the perfect introduction to the world of handstands, offering a comprehensive approach to mastering this impressive skill. We will begin with essential hand placement techniques to set a strong foundation. Following that, we'll focus on aligning the wrists, elbows, and shoulders, key elements to ensure both safety and success as you take your practice upside down. Understanding proper shoulder positioning is critical for handstands, and we will cover how to achieve the optimal alignment for your body. Additionally, we’ll discuss important stretches to lengthen the shoulders and alleviate restrictions that may hinder your handstand progress. To build strength and confidence, we will engage in targeted drills and exercises, including Chaturanga and Crow Pose. These foundational moves will help you develop the strength needed for kicking up into a handstand safely, while also getting comfortable with the sensation of being upside down. Throughout the class, we will emphasize the importance of self-trust and body awareness, which are crucial when transitioning into the inverted position. Whether you're looking to learn how to float forward or back in your handstand, this class is tailored to help you cultivate the necessary skills with confidence and ease. Join us for an empowering practice that will elevate your handstand journey and leave you feeling strong, capable, and inspired!
Be Part Of The Story
At our Yoga studio, we believe in creating a peaceful and welcoming space where people of all backgrounds can come together to learn, grow, and heal through the practice of yoga. Your generous donations directly support our mission by helping us maintain our studio, provide quality equipment, offer affordable classes, and create community programs that make yoga accessible to everyone.
Every contribution, no matter the size, helps us take another step toward expanding our reach and improving our facilities. With your support, we can host more classes, introduce new programs, and continue fostering an environment where health, mindfulness, and community thrive. Your kindness not only sustains our studio—it helps us touch more lives through the transformative power of yoga.
