I am beginning my third class in the Upper Levels Trainings at Konalani. This is the best training in yoga and meditation that I have ever done. It completely changed the way I look at yoga, at my practice and at my teaching in ways I couldn't have imagined. The training combines anatomy, physiology, yoga and spirituality into a something so meaningful. Abhaya and Satyam are amazing teachers - they know and live what they teach and bring a serious but light hearted presence to the practice. I'm in love with this practice and I think it is the way of the future. read more

Yoga on the Big Island This may be one of your most memorable yoga studios you'll ever visit. The "studio" is a wooden deck covered with a white canvas "tent", overlooking a garden with a gorgeous Boddhi tree with the beauty of the Pacific Ocean as the backdrop. It's a very new studio, classes are affordable, and it is NOT crowded (yet). It is well worth the drive from Kona or any surrounding area to take a class. The atmosphere itself made me fall in love and my yoga practice that much more enriching that day. read more

Konalani Yoga - Konalani Yoga Studio - Yoga Near Me - Kailua-Kona, Hawaii

I stayed at the Konalani ashram for 3 weeks for my RYS 200 yoga teacher certification training. I couldn't find much information about the experience online, so I wanted to provide an honest account of my experience, since it was very different from what I expected. In short - this is a very religious/spiritual training - and you should consider how you feel about taking part in ceremonies directed towards Gods that may not be part of your religious beliefs. Accommodations You will live in modest accommodations while staying at the ashram. The rooms are okay, but not as nice as a hotel. The rooms are all outdoors. My room was very hot and there was no AC. They provide fans, but if you are from a cold climate like me, it will be an adjustment. Meditation The focus in the Shambbhava tradition is meditation, not yoga. This means that a large portion of your hours are spent in meditation. The style of meditation they do is chanting (often in worship towards Gods). You will count your chants on a mandala (like a rosary), bow towards statues of humans, and make offering to the Gods and teachers. About half of my class felt very uncomfortable at times. They want you to take part in everything, but will allow you to opt out as long as you are in the room with them. Chanting happens for 1-3 hours a day (including every time you leave the ashram). This wasn't clearly represented to me when I interviewed with them. Yoga The yoga portion is taught very differently than a typical yoga class. There is a focus on "activation", which means many poses are not done the same as you may know. I did appreciate the differences, but its something to consider. I really appreciated the way the yoga poses and anatomy were taught. The teachers are patient and kind. They had great analogies and ways for you to learn. I felt as I got stronger over the 3 weeks. Again, I wish I learned more poses, as the 50 poses you learn can get stale quick. Seva Part of your hours is "seva" or "self-less serving". Instead of serving the community, you will do chores around the ashram (dishes, mopping the deck, cleaning bathrooms). Food Being vegan, I was happy for vegetarian food. I was disappointed that I paid $75 extra for vegan meals, and most of the time everyone gets vegan meals. Often items were omitted instead of giving us an equivalent. The food lacked protein, and I was often tired and run down. Schedule The days are long - you get up at 5 AM, and finish cleaning up around 6:30 PM. Then you have 1-2 hours of homework and its time for bed. I had a hard time finding time to call my family and take care of my responsibilities at home. -------------------- I'm happy I finished my training, but would have chosen another program for myself had I had more information. I hope this helps others trying to find the right program because its a large financial investment. read more

I did my yoga teacher training here, and therefore took part in not just the training itself but the public yoga classes, meditation classes, and kirtan programs. PUBLIC CLASSES: There is nothing like doing yoga on an outdoor deck gazing at the bodhi tree and watching whales jump in the ocean. The sunset class has the added bonus of watching the sun set while doing your Warrior 2. The teachers are experienced, thoughtful, fun, and friendly. The entire atmosphere is laid-back and relaxed. I loved going to class on the Konalani deck. Another plus is that the yoga classes generally include pranayama breathing exercises and ample meditation at the end...a very well-rounded yoga practice that you can't find everywhere. The Kirtan and meditation sits take place in the shrine and are for those more interested in spiritual growth and exploring a living tradition. The kirtan (singing/chanting/meditation) is particularly engaging and powerful...a nice introduction into the spiritual traditions of Shambhava Yoga. TEACHER TRAINING The 200hr teacher training was everything. I couldn't imagine doing it outside of an immersion atmosphere, and being able to do it in Hawai'i was just an added bonus. Every day is yoga, from before sun up to after sun down, which is intense, but an incredible learning atmosphere. I came in not sure I wanted to teach and doubting my confidence/ability to do so, and within one week I knew I wanted to teach and felt at ease in our teaching workshops. The addition of thorough meditation and personal spiritual growth is challenging, but integral -- it helped me absorb and understand everything else I was learning. I felt like family here, well-cared-for and expected to succeed. I would definitely recommend this training. read more

This was one of the best yoga retreat centers I have had the grace to encounter. Everything about my stay was rejuvenating, restoring, and inspiring. It is hard to put into words, his place is just special, magical, has good vibes. Just sitting on the lanai reading a book was restorative. The people were kind and helpful and the food was amazing. I highly recommend this place. read more

This place is such a treat. It is really as beautiful as the pictures. I just went for a drop in. They take credit cards and they have props. I loved the breeze and being so close to nature while doing yoga. I just wish that had more classes! read more

THE BEST YOGA IN HAWAII, great teachers, fabulous ambiance and life time experience!! ... If u r on BI u must go to Konaloni Yoga and u never wanna do Yoga any where els!!! read more

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I've taken both the morning and the sunset classes here along with a meditation class. This is an amazing location (I'd recommend standing to the left of the room for the best view of the giant "tree of life" and the ocean) with teachers that I've really enjoyed. If you haven't had a chance yet- give it a go- you won't be disappointed. read more

Konalani Yoga - View from my mat! - Yoga Near Me - Kailua-Kona, Hawaii

I recently completed the 200 hour Shambhava yoga teacher training at Konalani. This experience had a profound influence on my physical, emotional and spiritual wellbeing. The approach to yoga that Satyam and Abhaya offered enabled me to be present and respect my body as I learned and practiced yoga. Both teachers are passionate and devoted yogis and model this in all aspects of their teachings while also being very funny and warm During the training, my days were well structured and filled with meditation, seva, yoga classes, yoga workshops, anatomy and philosophy. I also had several opportunities to teach during my training. With the support of Satyam, Abhaya and the other students, I developed confidence in my ability to teach yoga. The community of students, teachers and volunteers was warm and inclusive. Our group bonded over yoga, conversations and many fun activities. Satyam and Abhaya provided opportunities for us to get creative and make local Hawaiian crafts and take ukulele lesson. They also took us on field trips to the beach and hiking in the forest. The food was delicious and nutritive and eaten as a group. Meals were a great opportunity to share recipes and stories. Now that I have completed the program, I am enjoying a yoga and meditation practice that is creative and respectful for me and my future students. I have developed confidence as a student and teacher of yoga. I highly recommend yoga training at Konalani and look forward to my next training. Sincerely, Carolyne Duval read more

Really fantastic place to practice yoga. Friendly fellow yogis to practice alongside of, many of whom were there for their teacher training. The view, the breeze, the birds chirping - all were wonderfully calming and rejuvenating...I'll definitely return! read more

Konalani Yoga - Yoga Near Me - Kailua-Kona, Hawaii

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One of the most relaxing yoga sessions I have been to. It was so relaxing to be outdoors with a great view and sounds of nature. The practice was the right amount of effort for the setting, and Abaya gave a lot of guidance on poses. There was some core strength but no lifts, stands or inversions. We also devoted 20 min at the end to breath control and shivasana that I liked. I would definitely come back before our vacation is over. read more

I just completed an upper level yoga training here, and can't find the words to express how grateful I am to have chosen Konalani. The teachers were amazing, as was the atmosphere, the food, and the energy. I had the opportunity to attend public yoga classes as well, and I'd highly recommend- beautiful setting with experienced teachers; so rejuvenating! read more

As someone that has lived and worked on several different ashrams following several different traditions, I wanted to give an honest account of my stay at Konalani. This is not your "typical" ashram. Their tradition is based on a "guru" who is still living, and you will be worshipping a large statue of him. It has a very "cultish" vibe (as someone that has lived at Ananda Church of Self Realization, I know a cult when I see one), and you can tell the couple that runs the ashram (yes, a couple. As in a romantically involved couple....) cannot tell the forest from the trees (i.e. their "yoga" experience is limited to the shambhava tradition). Most ashrams have a diverse community, with several members living and participating on the grounds. Not here. Everything is run and overseen by Abhaya and Satyam. This dynamic gives a very "us vs them" feel. Unlike other ashrams where there is an emphasis of community feedback, this has a very authoritative feel. There is no system of checks and balances. The photos on the website give a very different feel than what is actually going on, depicting a beautiful garden, with meals of fresh picked greens and a beautiful, alive greenhouse. During my stay there it was very apparent that most all of the food was frozen stuff from trader joes, chock full of preservatives. I paid $75 extra for the "vegan, gluten free" option, which in my mind meant lots of fresh salads and gluten free grains. this was not the case. Every meal lacked protein and fiber, and left me feeling incredibly sick. Definitely no "fresh picked greens" to be found, in fact, their greenhouse was barren, not even in use. And their version of "gluten free" meant a slice of gross GF bread with meals...no thank you. With all their tech-toys and Lululemon wardrobe, it isn't hard to see where that extra $75 goes... The organic shampoo bottles are filled with another, much cheaper shampoo full of chemicals. This is known because during seva, it is our job to fill the bottles. There are cameras EVERYWHERE including the dinner table. WTF?? I have never in my life seen cameras at an ashram... There was not very much respect for the students either. During one of the Sunday classes, Satyam was teaching, and during class bent down and grabbed my sweat towel, and dabbed his head. Another student pointed out that it was mine, his response was "Oh it's ok, I just dabbed real quick.". Wow. Never in my life... As far as the (somewhat condescending ) comment goes in reply to the 3 star rating below....yes the ashram experience isn't for everyone. But I can assure you, this is not an ashram. Trust me. It is a plot of land with mango trees and two lovers running the place with the title ashram slapped on it. I left feeling worse than when I got there. It is very obvious that most of the ratings are from people who took weekend classes. The view cannot be beat, that I agree with. But if you are looking for a deeper experience, I might suggest Yoga Hale. Namaste!! read more

This has been an amazing experience and has changed my practice forever! Abahye and Satyam taught us not just the tools to teach but to teach from our hearts. The curriculum is intensive, immersive and comprehensive and will help me be a better teacher than I could have imagined. The bonus is the wonderful group of women i met and the bond we formed. The spectacular views were a bonus thanks for the rainbows and the wonderful excursions. read more

This place is absolutely amazing. The yoga takes place outside on a deck over looking the ocean and a huge banyan tree. The teacher is on point other instruction and knowledge of breath body and meditation. I took classes at 3 different places while I visited the island and this place far exceeded the others. read more

The yoga studio is a majestic gem curled atop a hill which overlooks the sea and offers an excellent yin class that's sure to unfurl more than your muscles! read more

Had an amazing practice at Konalani. The view from the yoga deck and surrounding grounds are breathtaking. Everyone is so welcoming. We will definitely be back. read more

Konalini was amazing! The property was gorgeous! The food worked well with my body and made me feel energized and as an extra bonus, I didn't have to cook it! We were very busy and scheduled, which at first seemed like a lot.Things happened when they were scheduled.I could tell that they had been doing this for awhile and put a lot of thought into it. Abhaya, Amanda, and Satyum were knowledgeable and lived the teachings. Tell me anything, I watch what you do. A lot of information was packed into the three weeks that I was there. I Learned so much more than I had anticipated. I am so grateful that I had the opportunity to go there and that I actually took the opportunity!! I looked at so many places for training and it was overwhelming! I know that I somehow picked the best place, which is awesome because I hate regrets! If your goal is to start on a journey to teach yoga and do it in a beautiful place then Konalini is for you! Namaste. read more

I came to the Konalani Yoga Ashram to take the final two trainings to complete my 500hr Hatha Yoga Teacher certificate from Shambhava Yoga (a Yoga Alliance school). I took levels 1,2,3 & Meditation Teacher level 1 at the school's mountain retreat center at Shoshoni Yoga Retreat. I LOVE THIS ASHRAM!!! when you take HYTT here you truly feel "part of the family" in this sweet setting. The residential staff is very small so you have lots of opportunity to pitch in and help out....just like family. The training schedule is very mindful of the need to take a moment to reflect and study hall on the beach is always a trainee favorite. The beautiful Meditation room has a direct view of the ocean as does the yoga deck where all Hatha Yoga classes (open to public) and most of the training sessions are held. lovely and inspirational, genuine and authentic, sharing practice of all aspects of Yoga with these wonderful yogis is a unique experience and true gift. read more

Konalani is an oasis within an oasis. The grounds are stunning. Emerging out of a quaint residential area into an acreage overlooking the ocean; it feels as if you are stepping into simplicity. The environment along with the compassionate, down to earth staff and instructors allow the perfect atmosphere to rejuvenate, test your physical and inner strength and to grow in ways you may not know are possible. Not to mention the wonderful home cooked meals and loads of full belly laughter. Konalani offers the full yogic experience and immersion and I highly recommend it to anyone who wants to explore yoga and all that it has to offer. From challenging physical movement to quiet contemplation Konalani is the real deal. Konalani does not provide an escape from your life but rather an awakening to it. I dream of my peaceful sleeps in a Konalani tent, practising asana on the yoga deck supported by the Bodhi tree and counting the stars from the outdoor shower. A not to be missed yogic experience. read more