Centre de Yoga Sivananda Paris operates from a dedicated centre on Boulevard de Sébastopol in the 2nd arrondissement, under the umbrella of the International Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centres founded by Swami Vishnudevananda in 1957. The Paris centre is one of dozens established worldwide and transmits the classical Sivananda five-point approach: proper exercise (asana), proper breathing (pranayama), proper relaxation (shavasana), proper diet (vegetarian), and positive thinking and meditation. Classes follow this integrated model rather than a purely physical format, making the centre distinct from the majority of commercial yoga studios in Paris. The teaching faculty are certified instructors trained in the Sivananda lineage, and classes are conducted in both French and English with a welcoming approach toward absolute beginners. Asana sequences are built around the twelve basic Sivananda postures, progressing through sun salutations, standing postures, and inversions. Pranayama practice opens and closes each session. The centre also hosts introductory courses for newcomers, weekend intensives, and occasional visiting teachers from other Sivananda ashrams in Europe and India. Facilities are purposefully modest compared to luxury studio operators: a clean, simply furnished practice room with wooden floors, a meditation altar, and a small community space for post-class gathering. The centre does not offer accommodation in Paris but can provide referrals to Sivananda ashrams in France and elsewhere for those seeking residential retreat. Drop-in classes cost approximately €18 and monthly memberships are available from €85, making the centre among the most accessible serious yoga options in central Paris. Bookings can be made online or by telephone.
| Price | Drop-in class €18 (~$19.60); monthly membership €85 (~$92.65) |
|---|---|
| Address | 123 Boulevard de Sébastopol, 75002 Paris, France |
Treatments
- Sivananda asana series (twelve basic postures)
- Pranayama breathing sessions
- Guided meditation
- Yoga Nidra deep relaxation
- Weekend intensive immersions
Location
123 Boulevard de Sébastopol, 75002 Paris, France
Highlights
- Classical Sivananda five-point yoga system taught by certified lineage instructors
- Classes in both French and English, actively welcoming to absolute beginners
- Drop-in classes from €18, among the most accessible serious yoga options in central Paris
- Weekend intensives and visiting teachers from European and Indian Sivananda ashrams
- Integrated philosophy covering asana, pranayama, meditation, and vegetarian diet
Tips for visiting
- New visitors should arrive 10 minutes early to speak with the instructor about their level and any physical limitations
- Comfortable non-restrictive clothing is sufficient; no specialist yoga wear is required and mats are available to borrow
- The introductory course — typically four consecutive sessions — is the most effective entry point for complete beginners
- Drop-in rates make it easy to attend a single class; a monthly membership becomes cost-effective after three visits
- The centre is vegetarian-oriented — post-class community time may include vegetarian snacks or tea
Frequently asked questions
Do I need prior yoga experience to attend?
No prior experience is needed. Sivananda classes are structured to accommodate mixed levels, and the centre actively welcomes beginners. Introductory courses designed for first-timers run regularly throughout the year.
Are classes in French or English?
Classes are conducted in both French and English within a single session. Most instructors are comfortably fluent in both languages and switch between them to accommodate the mix of students.
What is the Sivananda yoga method?
Sivananda yoga is a classical Indian system based on five principles: proper exercise (the twelve basic asanas), proper breathing (pranayama), proper relaxation, proper diet (vegetarian), and positive thinking and meditation. It differs from many modern styles in its philosophical and lifestyle integration.
Can the centre help arrange a residential retreat?
While the Paris centre does not offer accommodation, staff can provide information and referrals to Sivananda ashrams in France and elsewhere in Europe that offer residential retreat programmes.
How are classes booked?
Bookings can be made online at sivananda.org/paris or by calling +33 1 40 26 77 49. Drop-in attendance is also accepted for most regular classes, subject to space availability.