Business Details
Nashville's Certified Iyengar Yoga Experts
Chestnut Hill Yoga is Nashville's premier certified Iyengar Yoga studio, offering a welcoming environment for students of all levels. Our instructors maintain daily practice, study with senior Iyengar teachers, and have passed rigorous assessments to ensure exceptional instruction. With over 20 years of combined experience, our team specializes in foundational alignment, therapeutic applications, and progressive sequencing using props to accommodate diverse needs.We provide structured class levels from beginners to advanced practitioners, emphasizing safety, consistency, and personal growth. Our community-focused approach includes workshops, private instruction, and mentoring programs that foster deeper understanding of yoga's physical and philosophical dimensions.
Services
Iyengar Yoga Classes
Private Instruction
Teacher Mentoring
Workshops
Prenatal Yoga
Short-term Rental
Highlights and features
- Our instructors have passed rigorous Iyengar certification assessments
- Specialized therapeutic applications for injury recovery and chronic conditions
- Progressive class levels with structured sequencing for measurable improvement
- Expert use of props ensures accessibility for all physical abilities
- Community-focused environment with mentoring programs for yoga teachers
Associations and certifications
- Iyengar Yoga National Association of the United States
What people say
Exceptional therapeutic applications
Knowledgeable instructors
Welcoming community
Effective injury recovery
Structured progression
Services
Iyengar Yoga Classes
Our certified instructors provide progressive Iyengar yoga classes for all levels. Using precise alignment and props, we ensure safe practice that builds strength, flexibility, and body awareness. Classes follow structured sequencing to support measurable improvement over time. This method benefits both beginners and advanced practitioners seeking deeper understanding of yoga postures.
Private Instruction
Tailored one-on-one sessions address individual needs and goals. Instructors create customized sequences using props to accommodate injuries, chronic conditions, or specific objectives. Private lessons complement group classes by providing personalized attention and accelerated learning of proper alignment techniques for home practice.
Teacher Mentoring
Our mentoring programs develop both new and experienced teachers through structured study of Iyengar syllabi. Participants refine teaching skills while deepening their personal practice. The curriculum covers posture analysis, class sequencing, and effective demonstration techniques. This program supports ongoing professional development aligned with Iyengar Yoga's rigorous standards.
Workshops
Thematic workshops focus on specific aspects like inversions, therapeutic applications, or advanced postures. These intensive sessions provide deeper exploration of technical elements and philosophical principles. Participants gain practical tools to enhance their practice and understanding of yoga's holistic benefits through expert-led instruction and group interaction.
Prenatal Yoga
Gentle classes designed for expectant mothers emphasize safe postures and breathing techniques. Instructors modify sequences using props to accommodate changing needs throughout pregnancy. This practice promotes physical comfort, mental preparation for childbirth, and community connection among participants while maintaining alignment with Iyengar Yoga principles.
People
Aretha McKinney
Lead Instructor
Certified Iyengar instructor with decades of study in India and extensive teaching experience. Specializes in therapeutic applications and advanced postures. Leads workshops focusing on progression from foundational to complex asanas.
Paige Seals
Instructor
Experienced teacher known for creating calm, accessible classes. Provides individualized attention to help students develop proper alignment and deepen their practice through structured sequencing and prop usage.
Cassie O'Sullivan
Instructor
Specializes in therapeutic yoga for chronic pain relief. Teaches progressive modifications that help students overcome physical limitations. Has four years of experience guiding students through posture refinement and injury recovery.
Becky
Instructor
Gentle yoga specialist with expertise in adapting practice for older adults and those with physical challenges. Combines technical precision with approachable teaching style to create enjoyable, productive sessions.
Rachel
Instructor
Certified Iyengar teacher with extensive experience in foundational instruction. Focuses on building strong technical base for beginners while maintaining engaging, supportive classroom environment for long-term practitioners.
Questions
What yoga styles do you teach?
We specialize in Iyengar Yoga with certified instructors who emphasize precise alignment and prop usage across all class levels.
Are classes suitable for beginners?
Yes! Our beginner and gentle yoga classes provide foundational instruction with modifications for all physical abilities.
Do you offer private yoga sessions?
Yes, we provide personalized private instruction tailored to individual needs and goals using Iyengar techniques.
How do I know which class level to choose?
New students start with beginner/gentle classes. Experienced practitioners should begin with Level 1 to learn Iyengar-specific techniques before advancing.
What should I bring to class?
We provide mats and props. Wear comfortable clothing you can move in - no special gear required.
Do you have teacher training programs?
Yes, our mentoring programs develop both new and experienced instructors through structured study of Iyengar syllabi.
Reviews (5)
David Goldberg
Jun 23, 2022
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Teachers share their tenured knowledge of iyengar yoga and they communicate clearly about the body and physiology. They have a humble sense of self and are not at all judgemental. The space is great, it's a good setting for honoring one's body by doing the work.
Heather Deal
May 04, 2022
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1st time taking a yoga class & it was great! Aretha is very good at articulating each movement throughout the class. Definitely returning!
Sarah Arace
Oct 18, 2021
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Truly the ONLY yoga studio I will ever need. Aretha and her professional team are the perfect mix. However you LEARN or whatever YOU NEED TO WORK ON - she has the instructor/time of day for you. I would drive any distance (if this was further from my home) to get the knowledge, joy, and self care this studio provides me.
Cherrell Campbell-Street
Dec 03, 2020
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This place is transformational. Aretha and the other instructors are very knowledgeable and encouraging. I feel so empowered after I finish a class. Aretha is very detailed and has a great "eye" to help you meet your maximum level of accessibility. Using props is not viewed as a weakness but rather an extension of one's own body. Each class has been an awesome experience.
Holly Tashian
Jun 22, 2019
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I highly recommend The Iyengar Yoga Studio at 12 South. They have excellent teachers who are expertly trained and compassionate. My favorite teacher is Aretha McKinney; her classes are challenging, informative and always enlightening. She is the best teacher I have ever had the pleasure of working with. And she's got a wonderful sense of humor. I would give the center 10 stars, but this scale only goes to 5!