Born out of the need for a dedicated yoga studio on the Aviva Family and Children’s Services premises, Rajashree Choudhury–yoga teacher, motivational speaker, and advocate for youth and women’s causes—collaborated with the non-profit to create a peaceful practice space.
Prior to meeting Rajashree, Aviva High School (part of Aviva Family and Children’s Services) had been teaching yoga to at-risk Angeleno teen girls in a makeshift space, making it difficult for students to relax and focus. With the help of Rajashree’s daughter, Laju (also a yoga teacher), two former storage rooms were overhauled and converted into a serene setting. The color palette was chosen for its warmth and symbolism. As Laju explained, “Reds and oranges represent energy and the sun, which hold a symbolic meaning when practicing yoga. Sun salutations are traditionally done at the beginning of the class to bless and energize one’s practice until the very end.” She chose specific mandala artwork for the wall décor; they hang on acoustical panels that insulate the studio. Rajashree outfitted the space further with Flotex flooring, durable yoga mats, yoga blocks, and straps.
Completed in June, the Rajashree Choudhury Yoga Studio has been embraced by students and will continue to empower them with yoga’s positive health benefits.
Aviva Family and Children’s Services
7120 Franklin Ave
Los Angeles, CA
(323) 876-0550
By Marina Chetner, Writer and Managing Editor of Find Bliss Los Angeles. Linkedin.com/in/marinachetner Twitter: @mchetner
Marina Chetner is a Los Angeles-based Australian freelance writer.