Shala Ashtanga Yoga Centre

The Shala is a great place to learn and practice yoga because of the people who run the studio. A few years ago, I suffered a shoulder injury and was searching for help in healing my body. I figured yoga might be of benefit, so I started looking on Google Maps for a place to learn. There were so many places to choose from: hot yoga, power yoga, spiritual yoga… I was lost. Thinking back, it was probably a miracle that I choose the studio that would eventually become The Shala. My teachers at The Shala: Kellie, Linda, Kristen, and a few others, have been exceptional. I was afraid of going to a studio that was cliquey or full of egos, and they have been welcoming and encouraging. I didn’t want to be rushed or pressured through postures because of my past injury, and they have been patient and cognizant. I don’t like it when people give direction without explaining why, and I’ve been continuously impressed by their depth of knowledge, and likewise their humbleness as they don’t claim to be all-knowing “gurus”. Since joining the studio and making the terrifying leap from introductory courses to a Mysore practice at The Shala, I’ve noticed a significant increase in my strength, balance, and stamina. I’ve noticed that my posture has improved. I have greater control over my state of mind, which is a relief, because my engineering job can be very stressful. I’ve gained an increased focus and awareness of my body, which has been useful during my weight training, and most surprisingly, I’ve met a community of positive, non-judgemental people who are happy to learn, grow, and share knowledge as we navigate through similar challenges. So, for anyone considering yoga, look no further. In full disclosure, the studio does currently have an odd entrance in the back alley, and sometimes there’s Thai karaoke that goes on once a month downstairs, but the benefits of the Ashtanga practice at The Shala have vastly out weighed these minor inconveniences. Derek

I’ve been practicing yoga with this community for a number of years now and love the studio. It’s a bright, positive, and welcoming space with great teachers. Students are encouraged to practice at their own pace so beginners and experienced practitioners should be able to find the support they're looking for and feel comfortable.

This studio is staffed with warm, caring and knowledgable staff. The atmosphere is comfortable and welcoming. This is a beautiful and inviting space. Like many people, I was intimidated by the idea of transitioning to an Ashtanga practice, but the care and attention of these supportive instructors has allowed my practice to gently and safely grow. I have been lucky enough to practice in many yoga studios around YEG and this one is truly a special and magical place.

Shala Ashtanga Yoga Centre is the first review we’ve ever done of a traditional Ashtanga yoga studio and a Mysore class at that (a self-led yoga class where students practice independently at their own pace). As soon as we found out we were doing that we were like…uhhhhhh. Even though I’ve been practising for over 15 years and we go to a squillion yoga classes, we were still intimidated by having to lead our own practice. BUT – turns out there’s no need to fret. Going to a Mysore class as a beginner to Ashtanga might actually be the greatest thing ever and this hidden sanctuary in the middle of downtown Edmonton is one of the greatest places to learn. The Shala is small but beautifully and intentionally put together and they're in line with their yoga competitors in Edmonton in terms of price. Absolutely worth a visit.

Great space & location