KEVIN MAY
USC WATERPOLO CHAMPION

Invigorating, Revolutionary, Excruciating, Profound. There's yoga that you go to and then there is yoga that you can't stop going to. Aree's class is the latter.  When you choose to partake in the “Aree Method of Yoga” you’re deciding to do something that others shy away from; you’re making the decision to push your mind and body to their absolute limits. As someone who had recently given up competitive sport her class provided me with the competitive intensity and spirit of comradery that I did not even know that I was missing. Whether this is a result of her soul thumping playlists, her contagious energy. Aree is the best yoga instructor I have ever practiced under and provides an atmosphere that cannot be found anywhere else. When you join #areesarmy you aren't done practicing after an hour of sweating but continue to carry the energy and enthusiasm in your everyday life. Join the movement. We want you.

JANET S CROWN
OWNER / FOUNDER OF BURN60

I am not a yogi. I am impatient. I like to run and move fast. Less than 24 months ago, I thought Yoga was a slow, boring, painful stretching class for people who didn’t really like to work out. And then I took Aree’s class. In 60 minutes, Aree obliterated every preconceived notion that I ever had about Yoga. She offered an experience beyond the normal or physical level. Her classes have changed my body and my perspective. It sounds cliché, but this amazing instructor reaches every student (and her classes are sold out) and teaches them how to locate and liberate his or her greatest potential.

Aree doesn’t just teach a yoga class, she creates transcendence.  Each class takes you on a journey offering change, growth, discovery, movement, transformation, continuously expanding your vision of what is possible, stretching your soul, teaching you to see clearly and deeply. And the workout is so challenging. I have never seen better bodies.  Aree encourages you to listen to your intuition, take courageous challenges both physically and mentally throughout the entire class. It’s not just yoga- it’s an addiction and a lifestyle.  Being part of Aree’s Army is a privilege. She attracts dedicated fitness enthusiasts who want to improve their minds and their bodies on every level. And she does it with a huge authentic smile. You never know what to expect, but you always work harder, leave happier, healthier and inevitably have another great day.

BRIAN MATSUSHIMA
HR AT NBC UNIVERSAL

#AREESARMY is one of the few groups in LA that has brought the word community back to yoga. It started out as an idea, which turned into a phenomenon, that's become a way of life. It's equally challenging, fun, supportive, and invigorating; where something is said that resonates and changes you're outlook on life the second you walk out the door. Lead by a fierce badass yogini, #AREESARMY is a destination point for anyone looking to have a great time and continue developing their practice or internal goals.

KAI WEINGARTEN
ATTORNEY, MEDIATOR, OMBUDSPERSON

When my body started breaking down from decades of playing competitive contact sports like basketball and football, I began desperately searching out alternative forms of exercise.  It never occurred to me though that the practice of yoga could effectively fill this void.  However, experiencing Aree Khodai's class forever changed that. 

To classify Aree Khodai as a yoga instructor paints somewhat of an incomplete picture; in all actuality, she is a warrior of the light.  As such, Aree Khodai is a tenacious leader who empowers those around her to be more courageous and honest in their pursuit of love, equanimity, and grace.  These qualities, coupled with her fierce work ethic, her unwavering commitment to the struggle and uncertainty of the journey, and her unbridled enthusiasm and passion for diversity of thought and expression, all set Aree Khodai far and apart from the rest of the peers in her field.

For the reasons stated above, it is my distinct honor and privilege to call Aree Khodai my 'fitness conciliary' and I eagerly await the continued blossoming of her edifying yoga practice.

SUZIE BROWN
LEADERSHIP AND TRANSFORMATIONAL CHANGE EXPERT, EXECUTIVE AND ENTREPRENUER COACH

Looking to redefine my life, rekindle my passion, wellness, my mental and physical stability I began to practice yoga.  From the very first class I took with Aree I fell in love with moving my body on the mat.  Aree’s unique mix of power, integrity, uncompromising standards and passionate but gentle coaching and encouragement has helped me excel in my practice and grow as an individual.  Having always been a strong person I knew I could “power” through most everything.  It is just a matter of will.  But not in yoga, a pose can’t be forced.  Letting go of force and learning to “go with flow” has been a powerful lesson for me.  Aree helped me commit to my practice, learn patience and compassion for myself, for my efforts, for my progress, day in and day out.  She has encouraged me to focus on what I can do versus what I cannot do.  After every practice I have an amazing sense of accomplishment and each new breakthrough comes with deep satisfaction, exhilaration and a huge smile and a passionate “YES” from Aree! She has helped me let go, find my “soul” and surrender to my mat and in that I’ve experienced a new joy in life.  Aree’s teaching has helped me find success in and out of the yoga studio.

What’s the experience of AreesArmy?  Taking classes with friends, laughing at the common and ridiculous.  Rejoicing in finding balance and breath. Connecting to passion with music.  Wiping the enormous amount of sweat off; celebrating each other’s accomplishments.  Having the best coffee, mimosa, juice and lunch ever, being high on life after amazing times together on the mat. In the army, I have found a family of friends with big huge smiles, sweet greetings, encouragement and camaraderie.  No judgment only great passion for life, yoga and Namaste.

ALLAN FANUCCHI
ATTORNEY AT LAW

Throughout my week I practice with Aree as much as possible. Every class she teaches from yoga sculpt to power flow is truly a unique experience containing seductive playlists and metaphorical short stories to help set an intention. Aree’s work ethic and determination is supreme. She gives students no choice but to confront their ability to achieve greatness and work hard. Overall, she prepares the army for anything life may throw their way, whether that be gratitude for all the good transpiring or strength to persist through an unexpected storm. As a result, I am stronger mentally, spiritually, and physically.