We recommend you sign up in advance to reserve your space. Since we are a small group studio with max attendance at 16 people for the yoga classes it is highly recommended you sign up in advance to ensure you can practice.
We have yoga mats at the studio. for a $3 rental contribution. If you have a package or membership with us, your mat rental is included. We also have a small number of yoga blocks to support your practice.
We offer packages and memberships to best support a steady and consistent practice. From our observation, we see the most growth in our yoga aspirants who practice consistently whether that is 1, 2, 3x per week. Package holders and members also receive special perks for our events, workshops and retreats.
We also offer single class reservations.
Currently, we offer:
For new students:
3-Class Intro Pacakge
1-Month Unlimited Bliss Pass
For Steady Yogi Practitioners:
5-Class Delightful Bliss Package
10-Class Package Shining Bliss Package
1-Month Unlimited Radiant Bliss Membership
To read about all of our packages and membership and their perks check out here.
We ask yogis to cancel their class reservation at least 4 hours before class begins. This releases their spot for another yogi to join the practice. For late cancellations and no shows there is a contribution fee depending on the type of reservation, package or membership you hold.
We know sometimes life is life-ing, we ask you to reach out to us when a life event occurs and we're happy to support you in these times. We also understand sometimes we have an oops moment and therefore we provide a first time exception to both our late cancellation and no-show policy.
Please contact us via text at 646 801 3215.
Yes, we will welcome you in even if you are late. Andrea's philosophy is we would rather you come to your practice late than miss your practice completely. We ask you arrive on time at least 5 minutes before class to settle in and start with the opening Om.
We ask that if you are late and we are Om-ing, kindly wait until we have finished the opening Om and then enter the class.
All of our classes are open level unless specifically mentioned. We are well-versed in modifying the poses to fit your level of practice whether you are brand new, beginner, intermediate or an advance yoga practitioner.
We believe in following nature's example that all of life is happening at the same time. For us, this translates into the yoga practice as well. We along with the students cultivate an environment of support and inspiration to each other. Every yoga aspirant has the opportunity to practice and advance based on where they are. We encourage each other to grow and face our preconceived limitations. Each time a yoga practitioner attempts a new pose or accomplishes a new pose, we celebrate each other and use this as inspiration for our own practice.
Andrea's philosophy is that if one person can do it, we all can!
This is exactly what yoga is for! You can start at any point in your life and your body and mind will benefit. Some of our teachers only practice yoga for their physical maintenance and they are both strong and flexible. Main key is to be consistent and committed to your practice.
And yes, you can practice with an injury or while pregnant.
Yes, you can practice with an injury or while pregnant in any of our classes. Our teachers are well-versed in modifications to support your practice. We ask you listen to your body and the instructions of the teachers.
Andrea, the founder of Ray of Bliss, is trained as a birth doula, Pre/Post Natal Yoga and Meditation for pregnant practitioners of all levels.
If you have any concerns you can call or text us at 646 801 3215
We do not offer hot or heated yoga. We do not believe in putting the body in extreme physical stress pushing against the inward purpose of yoga. We believe that practicing yoga in extreme artificial heat disturbs the nervous system's balance and reduces mental clarity.
We understand and respect there is a philosophy believing to recreate the heat of India. However, even in India under natural extreme heat conditions yoga practitioners practice either in completely open and ventilated spaces under a roof outdoors or in an indoor space with fans and open windows.
We mostly practice without music to allow your mind to be fully present with your breath and your body.
When we do play music in our classes, we play gentle bhajans or instrumental calming music to not disturb your mind or emotions.
Here's Why...
While we love music, traditionally it is believed that music can be a distraction to being present and provoke emotional disturbances during the practice. When music is playing it can overpower your mind's concentration making it challenging to be present with your internal world.
Another note on music in yoga practice. Depending on the type of music played it can also keep your nervous system on alert, even if you enjoy the music. Yoga is meant to activate your Parasympathetic Nervous System, the nervous system that keeps you calm.
And as New Yorkers we are constantly bombarded with sounds having a space to be in silence gives all of your senses and nervous system a much needed rest and reset.
Yes! Our youngest yogi at the studio is 18 months of age.
We invite practitioners of all ages to join us. Children absorb the calmness and fun of the room and bring a lightness to all of us. The younger a child witnesses the yoga practice, the more likely they will want to participate in yoga or some form of movement.
If you have a young child who does not need a yoga mat, it is not required to register them. For us though, we love creating them their very own account. This way they can track how many classes they have participated in before they even know how to count!
For young yogis who participate in the class usually around age 4+, we do require an account for them and for them to be registered in the class as they will have their own space to practice as much as they like.
We also provide periodic family classes where we intentionally tailor the class to be family friendly.
And VERY SOON! we will be offering a children's yoga and mindfulness program! We are aiming to start this program in 2027.
Yes, for first time visits only.
We know people love ClassPass as it gives you a chance to try out different studios and fitness/movement classes. And we love when people come to get to know us.
But the truth is that ClassPass pays studios about $9 per ClassPass student assuming they have a ClassPass membership. The studio does not receive any payment for ClassPass students on a free trial. Which is not sustainable for any studio. Something you also might not know, is that the studios do not have control over the class credit value you see on ClassPass. ClassPass assigns the credit value of the studio's classes.
This is why we ask for returning students to become a class package holder or a member. By doing so, you support the studio and the teachers in creating a sustainable community. Plus you receive exclusive perks that you would not receive as a ClassPass participant.
If you have many ClassPass credits leftover and want to be part of Ray of Bliss we do offer a custom transition package so you can use your credits while supporting the RoB community directly. Kindly contact us directly to discuss at 646 801 3215 or support@rayofbliss.org
We understand finances can be tight sometimes and we still want you to be part of Ray of Bliss.
We believe money should not be an obstacle to practice while being mindful about our own financial needs to sustain a yoga school.
If you are in a financial pinch, kindly contact us, we will work out a custom plan for you. Just email or call us at support@rayofbliss.org or 646 801 3215
We also have a Community Rate Program for college students, city civil servants and veterans. To participate in this program you will need to provide a valid, unexpired ID. Verification of your ID will be requested every 6 months.
Webpage coming soon. In the meantime, contact us at support@rayofbliss.org or 646 801 3215
Did we miss something? let us know!
text/call us
917 746 2726
We recommend you sign up in advance to reserve your space. Since we are a small group studio with max attendance at 16 people for the yoga classes it is highly recommended you sign up in advance to ensure you can practice.
Did we miss something? let us know!
646 801 3215
info@rayofbliss.org
We have yoga mats at the studio. for a $3 rental contribution. If you have a package or membership with us, your mat rental is included.
We also have a small number of yoga blocks to support your practice.
Did we miss something? let us know!
646 801 3215
info@rayofbliss.org
We offer packages and memberships to best support a steady and consistent practice. From our observation, we see the most growth in our yoga aspirants who practice consistently whether that is 1, 2, 3x per week. Package holders and members also receive special perks for our events, workshops and retreats.
Did we miss something? let us know!
646 801 3215
info@rayofbliss.org
We offer single class reservations.
Currently, we offer:
For new students:
3-Class Intro Package
1-Month Unlimited Bliss Pass
See here
Did we miss something? let us know!
646 801 3215
info@rayofbliss.org
For Steady Yogi Practitioners:
5-Class Delightful Bliss Package
10-Class Package Shining Bliss Package
1-Month Unlimited Radiant Bliss Membership
To read about our packages and membership and their perks check out here.
Did we miss something? let us know!
646 801 3215
info@rayofbliss.org
We ask yogis to cancel their class reservation at least 4 hours before class begins. This releases their spot for another yogi to join the practice. For late cancellations and no shows there is a contribution fee depending on the type of reservation, package or membership you hold.
Did we miss something? let us know!
646 801 3215
info@rayofbliss.org
We know sometimes life is life-ing, we ask you to reach out to us when a life event occurs and we're happy to support you in these times. We also understand sometimes we have an oops moment and therefore we provide a first time exception to both our late cancellation and no-show policy.
Did we miss something? let us know!
646 801 3215
info@rayofbliss.org
Please contact us via text at 646 801 3215.
This is the best way to get us when you need to communicate with us directly. If you message us via IG we may not see it until after the class and it will be considered a late notice.
Did we miss something? let us know!
646 801 3215
info@rayofbliss.org
Yes, we will welcome you in even if you are late. Andrea's philosophy is we would rather you come to your practice late than miss your practice completely. We ask you arrive on time at least 5 minutes before class to settle in and start with the opening Om.
Did we miss something? let us know!
646 801 3215
info@rayofbliss.org
We ask that if you are late and we are Om-ing, kindly wait until we have finished the opening Om and then enter the class.
Text us to let us know you're coming late 646 801 3215
Did we miss something? let us know!
646 801 3215
info@rayofbliss.org
All of our classes are open level unless specifically mentioned. We are well-versed in modifying the poses to fit your level of practice whether you are brand new, beginner, intermediate or an advance yoga practitioner.
Did we miss something? let us know!
646 801 3215
info@rayofbliss.org
We believe in following nature's example that all of life is happening at the same time. For us, this translates into the yoga practice as well. We along with the students cultivate an environment of support and inspiration to each other. Every yoga aspirant has the opportunity to practice and advance based on where they are.
Did we miss something? let us know!
646 801 3215
info@rayofbliss.org
We encourage each other to grow and face our preconceived limitations. Each time a yoga practitioner attempts a new pose or accomplishes a new pose, we celebrate each other and use this as inspiration for our own practice.
Andrea's philosophy is that if one person can do it, we all can!
Did we miss something? let us know!
646 801 3215
info@rayofbliss.org
This is exactly what yoga is for! You can start at any point in your life and your body and mind will benefit. Some of our teachers only practice yoga for their physical maintenance and they are both strong and flexible. Main key is to be consistent and committed to your practice.
And yes, you can practice with an injury or while pregnant.
Did we miss something? let us know!
646 801 3215
info@rayofbliss.org
Yes, you can practice with an injury or while pregnant in any of our classes. Our teachers are well-versed in modifications to support your practice. We ask you listen to your body and the instructions of the teachers.
Did we miss something? let us know!
646 801 3215
info@rayofbliss.org
Andrea, the founder of Ray of Bliss, is trained as a birth doula, Pre/Post Natal Yoga and Meditation for pregnant practitioners of all levels.
If you have any concerns you can call or text us at 646 801 3215 or set up private sessions with Andrea
Did we miss something? let us know!
646 801 3215
info@rayofbliss.org
We do not offer hot or heated yoga. We do not believe in putting the body in extreme physical stress pushing against the inward purpose of yoga. We believe that practicing yoga in extreme artificial heat disturbs the nervous system's balance and reduces mental clarity.
Did we miss something? let us know!
646 801 3215
info@rayofbliss.org
We understand and respect there is a philosophy believing to recreate the heat of India. However, even in India under natural extreme heat conditions yoga practitioners practice either in completely open and ventilated spaces under a roof outdoors or in an indoor space with fans and open windows.
Did we miss something? let us know!
646 801 3215
info@rayofbliss.org
We mostly practice without music to allow your mind to be fully present with your breath and your body.
When we do play music in our classes, we play gentle bhajans or instrumental calming music to not disturb your mind or emotions.
Did we miss something? let us know!
646 801 3215
info@rayofbliss.org
Here's Why...
While we love music, traditionally it is believed that music can be a distraction to being present and provoke emotional disturbances during the practice. When music is playing it can overpower your mind's concentration making it challenging to be present with your internal world.
Did we miss something? let us know!
646 801 3215
info@rayofbliss.org
Another note on music in yoga practice. Depending on the type of music played it can also keep your nervous system on alert, even if you enjoy the music. Yoga is meant to activate your Parasympathetic Nervous System, the nervous system that keeps you calm and the best way to do that is with full concentration and breath.
Did we miss something? let us know!
646 801 3215
info@rayofbliss.org
And as New Yorkers we are constantly bombarded with sounds having a space to be in silence gives all of your senses and nervous system a much needed rest and reset.
Did we miss something? let us know!
646 801 3215
info@rayofbliss.org
Yes! Our youngest yogi at the studio is 18 months of age.
We invite practitioners of all ages to join us. Children absorb the calmness and fun of the room and bring a lightness to all of us. The younger a child witnesses the yoga practice, the more likely they will want to participate in yoga or some form of movement.
Did we miss something? let us know!
646 801 3215
info@rayofbliss.org
If you have a young child who does not need a yoga mat, it is not required to register them. For us though, we love creating them their very own account. This way they can track how many classes they have participated in before they even know how to count!
Did we miss something? let us know!
646 801 3215
info@rayofbliss.org
For young yogis who participate in the class usually around age 4+, we do require an account for them and for them to be registered in the class as they will have their own space to practice as much as they like.
We also provide periodic family classes where we intentionally tailor the class to be family friendly.
Did we miss something? let us know!
646 801 3215
info@rayofbliss.org
And VERY SOON! we will be offering a children's yoga and mindfulness program! We are aiming to start this program in 2027.
Did we miss something? let us know!
646 801 3215
info@rayofbliss.org
Yes, for first time visits only.
We know people love ClassPass as it gives you a chance to try out different studios and fitness/movement classes. And we love when people come to get to know us through ClassPass.
Did we miss something? let us know!
646 801 3215
info@rayofbliss.org
But the truth is that ClassPass pays studios about $9 per ClassPass student assuming they have a ClassPass membership. The studio does not receive any payment for ClassPass students on a free trial. Which is not sustainable for any studio. Something you also might not know, is that the studios do not have control over the class credit value you see on ClassPass.
Did we miss something? let us know!
646 801 3215
info@rayofbliss.org
ClassPass assigns the credit value of the studio's classes.
This is why we ask for returning students to become a class package holder or a member. By doing so, you support the studio and the teachers in creating a sustainable community. Plus you receive exclusive perks that you would not receive as a ClassPass participant.
Did we miss something? let us know!
646 801 3215
info@rayofbliss.org
If you have many ClassPass credits leftover and want to be part of Ray of Bliss we do offer a custom transition package so you can use your credits while supporting the RoB community directly. Kindly contact us directly to discuss at 646 801 3215 or support@rayofbliss.org
Did we miss something? let us know!
646 801 3215
info@rayofbliss.org
We understand finances can be tight sometimes and we still want you to be part of Ray of Bliss.
We believe money should not be an obstacle to practice while being mindful about our own financial needs to sustain a yoga school.
Did we miss something? let us know!
646 801 3215
info@rayofbliss.org
If you are in a financial pinch, kindly contact us, we will work out a custom plan for you. Just email or call us at support@rayofbliss.org or 646 801 3215
We also have a Community Rate Program for college students, city civil servants, retired adults and veterans.
Did we miss something? let us know!
646 801 3215
info@rayofbliss.org
To participate in this program you will need to provide a valid, unexpired ID. Verification of your ID will be requested every 6 months.
Webpage coming soon. In the meantime, contact us at support@rayofbliss.org or 646 801 3215
Did we miss something? let us know!
646 801 3215
info@rayofbliss.org
Yes. Depending on the conditions you have the ceremonial dose will be adjusted.
Diabetic? Yes, you can have cacao, our cacao does not have sugar.
Pregnant? Yes, your ceremonial dose will be adjusted. Maya women drink cacao throughout their pregnancy and even up to the moment of childbirth to ease birth.
Gall Bladder? Yes, due to the high fat content it is recommended to consume a lower dose than ceremonial.
High or Low Blood Pressure? Yes, for those with high blood pressure it is most beneficial as it can naturally lower blood pressure. For those with low blood pressure or those taking blood pressure medications or heart medications your dose will be modified.
Ulcers? Yes, you can drink cacao, your ceremonial dose will be modified. However, if you are taking antacids or have recently finished treatment you can attend the circle or ceremony without consuming cacao.
Taking SSRIs? Yes, your ceremonial dose will be adjusted.
On Antibiotics? Depending the antibiotics you are taking will determine if you are able to consume cacao.
We recommend you always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before consuming cacao. You can always join the gatherings and not drink cacao. You will gain the benefits of the collective prayer.
Cacao is not a psychedelic, psychoactive or hallucinogenic. It is a grounding sacred beverage to bring clarity, contemplation and calmness.
Yes, cacao contains caffeine, but in relatively small amounts compared to coffee. In ceremonial cacao there is 45g per 6-ounce serving, whereas a standard cup of coffee has around 95 mg-150mg.
Cacao has theobromine is a vasodilator (widens blood vessels) increasing circulation and heart stimulant, offering a calmer energy boost without the spike-and-crash of caffeine.
Yes. This is pure cacao, el puro cacao. Our ceremonial cacao we only add hot water just like the Maya ancestors always did.
FOOD OF THE GODS
Cacao contains the alkaloid theobromine, which translates literally into “Food of the Gods” – theos, meaning "god" or "divine", and broma, meaning "food"
Similar to caffeine in terms of energetic impact but impacting the cardiovascular system rather than the nervous system. Theobromine increases energy and focus without the anxious “buzz” one gets from ingesting caffeine. Cacao is a fabulous alternative to caffeine!
ANTIOXIDANT
Cacao in its purest form rates #1 on the USDA antioxidant food scale at 55,653 ORAC ahead of blueberries, goji berries, and pomegranates. It also contains the highest amount of naturally occurring magnesium
BRAIN POWER
Cacao increases blood flow to the brain by 10-15%, creating higher levels of mental agility, and improving awareness and focus
NUTRIENTS
Calcium - Bone problems, circulation, vericose veins
Potassium - Helps with nerve function and helps muscles contract.
Magnesium - Highest plant based source known
Regulating muscle and nerve function, blood sugar levels, blood circulation
Cacao contains potassium, phosphorous, copper, chromium, zinc, iron and high levels of magnesium which contribute to cardiovascular health.
Cacao is the highest plant-based source of iron known, with 13.9 mg per 100g, which is more than beef (2.5 mg) and spinach (3.6 mg). However, cacao contains non-heme iron, which is not as easily absorbed by the body as heme iron found in animal proteins. To maximize the benefits of cacao's iron, you can consume it with vitamin C.
BLISS
Cacao contains Anandamide or the “Bliss Molecule.” Anandamide is an endocrine liquid that your body produces when you feel a workout “high”. It is a natural pleasure molecule located in the cells of the nervous system.
Anandamide, the bliss molecule and other components in cacao actually inhibit the breakdown of the body’s own cannabinoids, meaning that cacao helps to keep your stress-relief system regulated for longer and with better results. CBD supplements act similarly by attaching to endocannibinoid receptors in the body, rather than the brain. The result? A full-body calm.
Endocannibinoid receptors - They act like traffic cops to control the levels and activity of most of the other neurotransmitters in our brain.This is how they regulate things: by immediate feedback, turning up or down the activity of whichever system needs to be adjusted, whether that is hunger, temperature, or alertness. The ECS regulates and controls many of our most critical bodily functions such as learning and memory, emotional processing, sleep, temperature control, pain control, inflammatory and immune responses, and eating.
To stimulate these receptors, our bodies produce molecules called endocannabinoids, which have a structural similarity to molecules in the cannabis plant. The first endocannabinoid that was discovered was named anandamide after the Sanskrit word ananda for bliss.
MOOD ENHANCER
Cacao is natural mood enhancer releasing serotonin and dopamine which can help with easing depression and releasing negativity
Serotonin
Neurotransmitter responsible for Serotonin release in our gut.
Associated with happiness, focus, and calmness, serotonin can create a long-lasting feeling of well-being. It also helps regulate digestive functions, body temperature, and appetite, and can help with sleep maintenance. This neurotransmitter is vital for feelings of contentment and love, and has been explained by some to be the reason that eating chocolate is so pleasurable.
Many antidepressants (SSRIs) work by blocking the re-uptake of serotonin, but cacao may naturally help boost the body’s serotonin production to yield antidepressant effects without the need for prescription drugs.
Dopamine
Associated with motivation and reward, dopamine can create a feeling of pleasure when released in the brain. It also controls body movements and coordination, and can help with wakefulness.
Phenylethylamine (PEA)
Cacao is an aphrodisiac as it releases our “love” molecule PEA
Linked to both the feeling of falling in love and the “runner’s high”
Hormone-like substance produced at the early stages of attraction that provokes the dizzy sensation some people feel when they're falling in love.
Triggers the release of norepinephrine, which helps the body respond to stress, dopamine
And other chemicals that play a role in depression and other mental health disorders.
People who don't make enough phenethylamine naturally may therefore be helped to prevent mood disorders by taking it as a supplement.
People use phenethylamine for athletic performance, depression, obesity, and other conditions
MINERALS
Raw cacao has more than 300 phytochemicals and nearly four times the antioxidant power of regular dark chocolate, and contains protein, calcium, carotene, thiamine, riboflavin, magnesium, and sulfur.
truly a cup of bliss
In honoring the Maya Tz'utujil traditions and guidance (the lineage Ray of Bliss follows) a cacao circle is a gathering with the community to align our intentions, prayer and reflection with the Cholq'ij calendar.
A ceremony is when there is a sacred fire in which offerings are given connected to the Maya Cosmsovision and the Cholq'ij calendar. Ceremonies are led by Ajq'ijs (spiritual guides) and fire keepers for healing, opening paths, clarity and support in life situations.
* We recommend that participants wear comfortable clothing of their choosing or preference. In consideration for the elders, we kindly ask for your clothing to cover the belly button, shoulders, and knees during the circles or ceremonies. Ceremonial clothes welcomed and encouraged.
* Avoid coffee, matcha and other caffeinated beverages at least 3-4 hours before our gathering. Best to avoid all day, if you can.
* Do not consume alcohol, cigarettes, marijuana, vape, tobacco or any other plant medicine or mind altering substance before or during the circle. We kindly, ask to be present to the medicine of cacao.
* Have your meal at least 3-4 hours before our gathering.
What to Bring
* In following ancestral tradition, each participant is strongly encouraged to bring flowers to contribute to the community flower altar.
Recommended
* Fruits, vegetarian snacks to have blessed and shared in community.
* Sacred items to have blessed on the alter during the circle.
We would love for you to join us and we know life sometimes brings us challenges. One way to join us is to volunteer your time. Help us with setting up, creating content (photography or videography), and breakdown and clean up. We will let you know which volunteer options are available.