Enter a yoga studio and you might see dimmed lights, hear soft music and experience a quiet, peaceful atmosphere.

Yoga is a method of relaxation and centering that aims to calm the body and the soul and this type of ambience helps.

So what the heck is all the cooing and babbling going on in the background at Yoga Vista?

Welcome to the latest rage in yoga, Mommy and Baby Yoga where screeching and gooing is part of the program.

New mom and yoga enthusiast Stephanie Robbins, brings her five-and-a-half month old son Scott to class and they both derive immense enjoyment. "Yoga class was our first adventure together.His face lights up when he sees the other babies and the class is good for me too," said Robbins.

Amy Schwartz appreciates "the opportunity to see other moms and to get a chance to commiserate." Her daughter Edie enjoys "checking things out and seeing the other babies."

Classes are designed for parents with children between the ages of four weeks and one year. Any older and they are a little too mobile to enjoy the class although plenty of toys are around to entertain them.

Unlike traditional yoga classes, this one starts by singing nursery rhymes with the moms and babies. Babies then rest comfortably on mats in front of mom or are raised up in the air to enhance some of the yoga positions. Watch the smiling babies and see the sweating moms and it is hard to tell who is enjoying the class more.

Instructor Liza Janda believes there are many benefits. "This class is great for both mom and baby. Moms can meet others in the same position that they are in and it creates a fellowship. It is an opportunity to get back into shape for those who practiced yoga before baby or during pregnancy."

She adds," I love that women have made friends and started playgroups through the class. I love giving them a place to go with their babies." Janda believes "the overall benefit to baby is having a happier, more relaxed mommy."

Yoga Vista offers a wide variety of classes to fiteveryone's needs. There are classes for seniors, kids, people with physical limitations and prenatal classes as well.Yoga Vista is located at 319 E. Broadway on the corner of Indiana and Broadway. Stop by to pick up a schedule of classes or give them a call at (760) 630-YOGA.

Jennifer Gilstrap is looking for stories to share about Vista. You can reach her at jengilstrap@cox.net.