I started practicing Yoga a couple of years ago and have been hitting every studio that has an introductory special trying to find my yoga home. It's been pretty much a Goldilocks thing- one studio too hot, one studio too cold, one studio too crowded, one studio too empty, too little variation, so much variation I couldn't keep up- you get the picture. (I don't think there's a one size fits all for your practice, and do recommend my trial and error methodology) I landed at Yoga Shala because it checked all the boxes- good variation from class to class, my preferred temperature range, warm, friendly yogis, a welcoming atmosphere, no hassle class scheduling etc. I can't say enough nice things about this place and am so happy I've finally found a place to settle at. read more

I've been practicing at Yoga Shala for over 10 years. After trying many other places, I found my home. If you want a studio where members aren't clicky, the teachers are highly experienced and the practice leaves you fresh in body and mind, give Yoga Shala a try. You will be glad you did. --Namaste read more

I discovered this yoga studio last year when I was working in downtown and loved it there. During the pandemic, their online Zoom classes have been a life line through these challenging times! I started practicing yoga maybe 20 years ago - first in Thailand and then in L.A. I had found a studio that I went to regularly, but then moved around a lot and yoga practice was inconsistent. The good news is, I got to try a lot of different studios and different styles. I started yoga again a few years ago and continued during pregnancy and postpartum. I have searched for the right studio with inviting decor and clean spaces, the right instructor(s) that were both challenging and spiritually-driven, somewhere with great music (not gym music - eck!), and the right community that was welcoming and inclusive. Ok so I'm super picky about my yoga studio, but I can say I've found a studio-home here. Michael and Tristina are great instructors. I read up on them through ClassPass and glad I found them. In their in-person classes, I used to sweat buckets. Now at home, I still sweat but it's not as hot in my house as the studio. Now I'm sweating because I have a toddler that climbs on my back during the online classes. But the classes are still challenging. The Zoom classes have been good because it makes me commit to a time to do the classes and they're more affordable than drop-ins. It's been also refreshing throughout this year to see the owners (Tyler specifically) engage online and in newsletters about Black Lives Matter and the importance of inclusivity in healing spaces. As a person of color practicing yoga, I feel more safe. Thank you, guys! Hope we see each other in person again soon. Namaste! read more

I was searching for a Yoga studio after the pandemic seemed to "slow down" a bit and decided to try this studio. Most of the instructors seemed very kind and genuine in their teachings and words. Unfortunately, a very 'alpha like' male there was not. I showed up on Sunday morning post holiday season anxious to attend class! Upon arrival I greeted this person and wished them Happy New Year to which they extended the same to me. I casually mentioned "Not too many people here today huh"? (Me: curious as a new student and former Yoga instructor myself) His 'reactive' response: "Well, it IS a holiday weekend. I'm going to go teach now. Don't EVER ask me a question like that prior to class again!!" As an instructor/owner....? I would think that one would have a better approach to treating people. Especially, when they say how much they "practice grounding and mindfulness off of the mat as well". I was in shock, but decided to get my $25 worth and stay. (grounding and all.....') At the end of class, I left out the main door and walked down the sidewalk where he was opening the other door. He looked at me as I walked by and said creepily "Have a nice day". As if nothing happened, and it was obvious he had zero intentions of rectifying the situation. I get it. We ALL have bad days and many are struggling in our crazy world. However, there is no excuse for this kind of behavior. Especially when you are preaching to others "Be the change you wish to see in the world". Perhaps more 'humble warrior' poses are in order for this person. read more

Yoga Shala is the goldilocks of yoga studios. Everything here is just right. The instructors here are all amazing. Whether this is your first yoga class or you've been practicing for 10 years, the teachers here offer variations for all levels. They'll offer in-depth explanation for what muscles you should be engaging and what you should be feeling in both basic and advanced poses. Not to mention the assists they give you are so helpful! I used to think that yoga was just about the physical poses, but Yoga Shala has taught me so much more than that. Almost each class begins with a short spiritual message/ yogic teaching, and they'll tie in mindful reminders throughout the class. The community that has been fostered here is so welcoming. Teachers make an effort to learn names of students, and they recognize when new students are joining their class. Not to mention, the yoga regulars here are incredibly friendly and supportive. Unfortunately I don't live in Sacramento anymore and it's been a year since I've practiced at Yoga Shala, but I find myself regularly missing the time I've spent here. They know how you make a yoga studio feel like your home away from home. read more

I've been practicing at the Yoga Shala for the past 2 months and even being this new to the studio, I feel like this review is LONG overdue. I cannot say enough good things about this place! After moving from NYC to Sacramento I was in search of a studio that could really feel like home. I tried a handful of places and finally found the Shala. As someone who has been practicing yoga for over 20 years I'd say I may be pickier than some when it comes to knowing what I want and don't want from a space and my teachers and the Shala have it all. From the moment I first walked in, the students, the teacher, the studio, were incredibly warm and friendly. Students seem to know one another and there's a vibe that feels really welcoming which can be a breath of fresh air especially for a studio that can offer some pretty advanced sequences and poses. I love that no class is ever the same here. The teachers are incredibly skilled at their craft and offer intricate and beautifully thought out sequences that are intuitive and challenging while providing modifications wherever necessary. Classes tend to weave in spiritual teachings, tidbits on anatomy and thoughtful queues. I know that coming to class means I'll sweat, be pushed to challenge myself in practice and feel amazing when it's time to leave. Special shoutout to Tristina for bringing chanting and music into our classes--such a special treat! read more

"Lead with your heart". My coworker and I have been talking about taking a yoga class together. I've always been the one to stick to "what's comfortable" especially when it comes to physical activities and given my fondness of another yoga studio in midtown prior to coming to Yoga Shala, I was hesitant to try this one. I figured, why fix something that's not broken. But my coworker continued to persist that I try Yoga Shala and I ultimately gave in. My reasoning: Why not try the $20 for 10 class deal and give it a shot. What is there to lose?! I took Taylor's class with my girlfriend for the first time this weekend and had a pretty good time. The class is a smaller classroom size but spacious enough just for the right amount of people to fit without feeling overwhelmed. The decor is simple yet welcoming and I never felt like it was too overambitious. I like vinyasa yoga because of it's focus on breath, core, flexibility and movement. Taylor incorporates the vinyasa with meditation (which I love), good tribal music and challenging poses that pushes me to another level. I like that the classes I've taken so far are small enough where he can help me with yoga positions that need correcting; unlike other studios where there are too many students tin the class to give individual attention to. Plenty of parking outside along the street, just read the signs carefully so they don't ticket you. Also, my final recommendation is not to drink too much beverages beforehand even though it's tempting to get a cup of coffee/tea next door at Weather Stone. Drink afterwards so you can enjoy the enjoy class without feeling like your bladder is going to explode. Namaste. read more

Teachers: I had classes with Tyler, Biffy, Annie and Justin. All were great teachers. - Biffy and Annie have such a sweet way of teaching. They give great adjustments and teaching cues. - Tyler brings a fun, playful energy to the classes. Much appreciated when you are soaked in sweat. - I had a great kidney cleansing kundalini class with Justin. I would suggest everyone try Kundalini at least once. All the teachers seemed very educated. Classes: - Vinyasa - faster paced and very warm. They aren't Bikram hot, but you will be wet n sweaty. Savasana is not very long, maybe 2-3 minutes. I went to the level 1-2 and 2-3 classes. There were some more advanced moves introduced in the 2-3, but the intensity was pretty much the same for either class. - Kundalini - the times I have went the teacher wears a turban and sits on a furry rug. Don't let that scare you off...just letting you know so you don't freak out if you've never tried it. They tie breath with movement, but rather than the deep slow breathing it is more of a short rhythmic breathing. Chanting is included in the practice and typically some meditation as well. Come with an open mind and you might be surprised. Location: Located right in mid-town. I didn't have any trouble finding street parking. Some parts of the street is only 1 hour parking before 6 pm so take note if you are there early. read more

I've been doing yoga for 14 years now and am honestly a little picky about studios. But I finally found my yogi home with yoga shala. The room has a great, respectful vibe. Teachers are spiritual and helpful and truly think through their practices. I've been to other studios that blast music or go off on tangents talking about themselves but here I feel like it's really about your practice. I also trust that the teachers are there to keep your body safe. I absolutely love Donnas classes and how she walls you through the entire practice (from breathing exercises in the beginning, imagery, and all the poses). So happy to have finally found a studio that's more than just a workout room! Only issue I have as is with most studios is how loud it is coming into the space because of other yogis loud conversations - I never understand that. It's so easy to talk outside of the room and when you come to your mat, to begin reflection. Those types of loud convos make it really difficult to relax and focus on your breathing. Anyway, thanks yoga Dhaka! read more

Had a great time at the sound bathing. These are listed on their website under seminars.

I was inclined to write a raving review after my first class at Shala, but as any diligent commentator would do, I wanted to check them out a few more times to really formulate my review. So instead of Yelping something right away, I recommended Shala the old fashioned way: I dragged my boyfriend, sister and friend and got them to check the studio out. After a consensus between the 4 of us that the place rocks, I feel comfortable writing my 5-star review. My experience with yoga started about 7 years ago when I took a yearlong class at American River College. Taught by local KXPR Capitol Public Jazz DJ Gary Vercelli, it was an Iyengar class that exposed me to the basics of yoga. I enjoyed that class immensely but after the school year ended, so did my yoga practice. Over the years I have sampled yoga classes at corporate gyms like 24 Hour and Cal Fit. Perhaps I was spoiled by my initial experience with Gary, who was so knowledgeable, with access to such an amazing space at ARC (we had the whole gym with ceiling length windows and lots of room to move), but I always found the gym classes to be crowded, unfocused and frenetic. Perhaps I was just not in the right space mentally and/or physically, or perhaps I had just not encountered the right people. In the back of my mind, I have known for a couple years that I would thoroughly enjoy a more intimate, private studio environment. I know in my experience with just traditional workouts, the delta between 24 Hour (large, corporate) and Body Tribe (small, personal) has been significant, so there was no reason to believe that the same would not be true for yoga. I also have a few friends who have become committed to yoga at Yoga Loka and Zuda, and constantly sing the praises of both. I met Tyler, the main trainer and I think one of the owners, while he was waiting for take-out at Nishiki and I was eating sushi at the bar. Now, as anyone who frequents Nishiki knows, if you sit at the bar it is required you talk to your neighbor. He was wearing a yoga sweat shirt and he mentioned his studio. The timing seemed right, especially considering how much lifting and other types of intense exercise I had been performing. The classes in the evening and the weekend are 90 minutes and after 3 weeks of going, I must say I am hooked. I am out of practice, so I am sure I still look relatively goofy, but Tyler and Rachel (the two instructors I have had) are completely accepting of your novice-status and truly helpful on improvement and coaching. I have gone to about 7 classes, and all of the folks I have referred (mentioned above) have been to classes on multiple occasions, both with and without me. The space itself is very open and welcoming, and the vibe between students and staff is ultra friendly. I feel truly blessed and excited to have found this great new business! read more

Yoga Shala - Yoga Near Me - Sacramento, California

I now know why they call it Yoga Shala; this place really feels like home! I've never met such nice people until I've been here. Not only are you greeted when you enter by the owner or instructor (or both!), but they introduce themselves and they will remember your name the next time they see you! But don't let that warm demeanor fool you. The teachers WILL kick your butt on the yoga mat (particularly Stephanie and Tyler), but it hurts so good! I've also taken Annie's and Biffy's class--loved them all. That's one of the best parts about this place: there's not a bad class to avoid! Their schedule rocks. I love that there's 30 minutes between the afternoon classes, so I don't feel like I'm being rushed out of there and I have time to clean my mat. You definitely won't encounter any hawks hovering over your spot, hurrying you to get up out of there! You're supposed to feel relaxed after your practice; you shouldn't be scurrying out just to get out of the way! Finally, the best part about this place is their generosity. Gone are the days of paying to rent a mat or towel. Don't have a mat yet? Borrow one of the many in the back. Forget your towel? Don't sweat it (literally). Lost your water bottle? Help yourself to the endless stash, but make sure you clean it first. Oh, you forgot your bike lock, too? WE GOTCHU. Seriously, I've never seen such hospitality without having to pay a ridiculous monthly rate! Shala, you are a gem and I hope you never change. You're just oh, so good to me! Just don't forget your clothes because they won't spot you for that. read more

Two of my coworkers tried hard to drag me to this place. Eventually I relented and went with them to a lunchtime class, but I came to it with low expectations. I thought, " This is going to be another pretentious yoga studio. It's going to cost $15-20 for a single lesson and probably sell crystals that have healing powers." Nonetheless, I bowed to peer pressure and I paid $10 for 10 lessons as part of a promotion. I learned two things about this place: 1) The yoga classes are actually amazing, and 2) It's run on donations, so you can pay what you think is fair for each class. The classes are at reasonable times, so you can go in the evening or even during your lunch break. The instructors are not pretentious at all. They are extremely nice. The classes are not usually crowded; they're just the right size. I love this place and I'm going to keep coming back. EDIT: Since I wrote the above review, I returned to Yoga Shala and was charged $15 for a session AND informed that I had skipped out on paying for another session, which occurred during the time when I thought payment was on a volunteer basis - and when I happened to be out of town. Despite the fact that I could not have actually been in the class - because I was in Texas - YS tried to claim that I owed them money. I'm going to reduce my original assessment of them. It's too bad. I'm not upset that yoga classes cost money; I'm upset that two classes (i.e. two days if you work out every day) cost as much as a month of unlimited classes and overall gym usage for a month at 24 Hour Fitness. The trick they tried to pull about a class when I was town was also irritating. The icing on the cake was when, on the last time that I visited, some idiot tried to tell me that the reason I was decent at yoga poses and could speak intelligently about them had to be that I had been a yogi in another life. This was, of course, exactly the sort of dishwatery mysticism I had hoped to avoid in the first place. One of these days I might try this place out again, but for now I'm pretty annoyed with it. read more

I've gone to this studio for two different types of classes - yin and vinyasa. I have been using their beginner to the studio deal which is $29 for 39 days! You can book classes online which is really convenient. First of all, the parking is great. Lots of free two hour parking around the studio, just watch for street cleaning days. The students and the teachers are very welcoming. On your first day you have to fill out a waiver, and then just put your stuff in a cubby and grab any needed props. So, not sure I love the layout of the studio as much as I like others. I like when the teacher is on the long side and then you can spread out throughout the room and still see how the pose is set up. For this studio, the teacher is on the short side and if you come in late you are kind of far away from them. They also pack in students like sardines, to the point where you have another mat two inches away on all sides and are afraid of kicking someone in the face. However, the studio is beautifully lit due to a big window in the front. Yin yoga is something I like, but don't love. It is very hard for me to be still, but I get the benefits of it and it is relaxing. The class and teacher was very good. Vinyasa I love. So much. This was a great, sweat inducing class. Easier to be still and rest if I've had a great workout first! I have to admit, my mood was kind of killed when I'm in blissful savasana and the teacher reads a religious passage to the class. Not everyone is religious and I think it should be left out of yoga because it is a discipline where everyone should be accepted regardless of beliefs, looks, any difference. I will be back for sure since I have days left on my deal. Of course I bought the 39 day deal when I'm out of town for part of it.. Oh well! read more

In 2013 one of my resolutions was to try out yoga. I signed up for a beginners workshop at the Shala and loved it. From there I graduated to regular classes and now I (try) to go three times a week. I used to do boot camp style workouts that are great for overall conditioning; but a little hard on the body. What I found after switching to yoga was that those workouts were also neglecting my spirit. In today's world we are constantly on the go both physically and mentally. Yoga as a practice helps us to quiet our minds and just be present; it provides plenty of opportunity for exercise too. Yoga Shala is a great place to practice: * All of the teachers are good, some are life changing * Most students are welcoming and friendly * You can get what I call a peaceful ass-kicking AKA really intense workout * You might find that coming here makes you a better person inside and out read more

Yoga is a frustrating experience for me. It was not until about 6 months ago that I started going to yoga classes at a studio instead of doing it at home. I am an athlete but have some serious mobility issues on my right side and just get upset with myself and the class because I can't do several poses and in my mind I am pretty much a toddler have a tantrum in my head the entire class. I'm always apprehensive of trying new studios, but I have class-pass for that very reason and was glad I finally committed to coming here. This place is chill, down to earth, and I didn't get that you have to do it just right, snooty feel- thank goodness. Tristina has a great spirit and had good instruction and cues for those of us who don't completely know what we are supposed to be doing. They do go around and correct/improvement your form which is appreciated but you can tell them in the beginning if you don't want their assistance. The studio is one large, well lite room, and just has this zen feeling about it. As much as yoga is an intimidating challenge for me, I didn't feel much judgment here and will pop in again. read more

Welcome to the new standard of yoga lovin'. Let me break down for you what I love about the Shala... From the very first time I walked in, I was greeted with GIGANTICALLY huge genuine smiles that were followed by a gentle, subtle, sweaty and sneaky a$& kicking of loving bliss. All the while being given words of sweet encouragement served with a side of laughter. This, to me, is what a yoga studio should be. A home. A place where all are welcomed upon entry, accepted as they are, and encouraged to be their best, whatever that may be to them. I have never experienced discomfort directed at myself or another, and have always left feeling uplifted, strengthened, and wonderfully exhausted in such a rejuvenating way. If you're looking for a new place to get your yoga on in total acceptance, this just might be your place. I've been to MANY different studios in the greater Sacramento area, and recognize that what I love may not work for someone else, but to me, this is hands down the best of what Sacramento has to offer. read more

I've been going to Shala for a few months on a kick ass Living Social Deal I bought months ago. Although I've been doing yoga for years, I never thought vinyasa was for me. I'm more of the yin/hatha type. (Or so I thought...) These classes totally kick my butt, but in a good way. I feel strong and stretched out after every class. I love Annie's classes the best - but every teacher here approaches yoga with compassion and a sense of humor. They're not as "hands on" as some other teachers, but that's not necessarily a bad thing. (Or maybe my yoga form has gotten better? Yeah, probably not.) There are only 2 cons to Shala - they really only teach vinyasa (a few yin and a kundalani class also) and the room is a bit on the small size, and the classes are pretty popular! Overall, if you're looking for a new yoga studio in town and want something really challenging but fun, try Shala! read more

What a warm and happy li'l yoga nook on the corner! I went for a very long stroll just to pass the time last week, passed by Shala and made a commitment to return. I attended a vinyasa class taught by Annie. It was a very pleasant experience. Many of the other students hugged and greeted each other warmly before class started and there was a palpable lack of pretentiousness which is always nice. The class was challenging but had a nice balance of rest and exertion. I really loved the lavender scent that filled the room! I plan to make the most out of this $20 deal. read more

REALLY disappointing. I attended a Vinyasa class here, which was supposed to be slightly heated at 83 degrees. It was most definitely not 83 degrees. The sets were so very weak, boring, and easy. I was not challenged at all, as well as barely got a sweat on. On top of that, I paid $19 DOLLARS. For a drop in. A colossal waste of money. Really wish I did not go. read more

I've tried a number of yoga studios since I moved to Sacramento in March, and I've fallen in love with Yoga Shala. I've been practicing Anusara for 10 years, and the teachers at Shala know their stuff. They are able to help beginners with the fundamentals, and at the same time offer more experienced students ways to continue expanding. Everyone is super friendly, and the prices are affordable. Shala totally rocks. read more

Pure bliss. Tonight was not my first yoga experience, but it was a first for a class with other people. I was a little nervous, but my husband said he'd join me so I thought 'why not'. I can tell anyone who is hesitant like I was to do yoga amongst a group of people, you have no need to be concerned here! Everyone was very kind, and seemingly connected. I felt absolutely no judgement even though I couldn't do all of the poses or hold as long as others. The whole class had a beautiful ebb and flow to it. There was a healthy balance of meditation and intense workout. I absolutely loved how music was interjected at just the right times and how we stretched and centered ourselves at the very end. It was an amazing experience! Even my husband who was definitely not too excited about the 'yoga thing' couldn't believe how much better he felt afterwards. He just kept saying 'I feel so relaxed...literally feel no stress'. Needless to say, we both finally understood the peace of mind yoga brings after the class. I'm so glad our first class with others was here, and could not recommend it more. Looking forward to all the different classes to try! read more

I tried this studio out for a month and loved it. All the staff are super friendly and the classes are great. It made me want to keep coming back. read more

Awesome spot for beginners! The community is extremely friendly and always happy to give advise to improve form and increase the tension in your stretch! highly recommend if you are interested in getting your NAMESTE on! read more

You have to check this new studio out and help it grow. The instructors are as good as it gets, teach you proper alignment, are unconditionally caring, and extend that piece of themselves that help you leave feeling great, physically and mentally. This is a community that welcomes you with open arms, whoever you are. The studio is new, but the yoga isn't, and the teachers aren't. They have something special to offer and I am lining up! Come see me there too! Intro special 10$ for 10 days... and the rates after that are the lowest I have seen in the area. The place is surrounded by pay parking, until 6pm so keep that in mind, (tickets run 40 dollars... I wasn't paying attention). Or... walk a couple of blocks toward N Street. read more

I was in Sacramento for a month for work and I was very lucky to find Yoga Shala. I did the $29 dollars for 39 days and I went almost everyday. The studio is just a big room with a sign in desk and cubbies and a bathroom, but it's a very welcoming space with a lot of light. I loved all of the instructors, I got to take Michael, Tyler, Tristana, Jamie, Annie and a couple others whose names I don't remember. All of the instructors are really great and personable. The majority of classes had a solid vinyasa flow that definitely left me sweating. My only critique of Yoga Shala is that I don't really like it when an instructor stops class to explain a peak pose for five minutes, I'd rather just keep moving and flowing, but that's my personal preference. I absolutely love Yoga Shala and would recommend it to anyone in the Sacramento area. read more

Yoga Shala - Yoga Near Me - Sacramento, California

This place makes me want to move back to Sac! I wanted to do Yoga while in town. A friend recommended Yoga Shala, so my other friend and I decided to check it out. It was really great from the welcoming greeting by Tyler to the ambiance, and hip music for a challenging Yoga session. Next time I am in town, I will definitely visit Yoga Shala. read more

So I did the 39 days for $29 which is a great deal in my book. Firstly. the teachers were amazing and they do rotate throughout the days of the week. Most people have figured who the seasoned teachers are and flood the classes. I love that they walk around the class assisting you in your form and they genuinely want everyone to improve in their practice. Though I can't say enough about the teachers, the stars that I am docking off is because of the space! It has gorgeous windows but its very narrow and they pack people in that tiny room like sardines sometimes. In the summer, it gets super hot in the room. Once we had 6 people in a row! I was pretty uncomfortable. Again, the 3.5 stars was because of the tight space. Please expand! I thought parking would be problem between 4 to 6pm on weeknight in downtown but actually it's not. Plenty of free hourly parking adjacent to the studio. read more

Tyler, Biffy, Annie and Crew..... They all make yoga so fun and the energy is so sweet. I am so glad they are here. The studio is clean and not super big, great space. The flows are challenging and allow you to reach your edge for that moment. It is a good and inviting studio here in Sac :) read more

Really enjoyed the class and instructor. Casual vibe. Very nice gal on the mat next to me, didn't feel snobby. Only reason it's not a 5 star is the $19 drop in was a little pricey considering the lack of amenities. read more

The experience at Shala truly is as good as it gets. I've always enjoyed yoga but never been to into it. Over the years I have probably gone to about 25-30 classes. Most were Hatha, a lot slower moving and more meditation. When I leave Shala I feel amazing and the next day incredibly sore. The instructors are easy going, supportive and knowledgeable. The classes are challenging, fun and seem to be set up perfectly for the experienced to still be pushed and the novice to feel comfortable on their learning path. Namaste Shala! read more

In trying out X number of studios in at least 4 different countries with over 30 instructors, I've learned that yoga is like a buffet. Keep sampling and you'll find something you love---something worth going back for seconds on. Yoga Shala is my new binge. Yoga Shala Sacramento is a great studio with knowledgeable instructors and a good vibe. Not too far on the self-important chanting, inner-peace lecturing "yoga is the rebirth of the world" side and not too far on the drill sergeant physical side. This place is just about perfect. The basics: -Sessions with a great flow -A good workout (you'll definitely sweat and feel your arms, legs and core) -Sweet mental release -Chill instructors who provide good guidance but also let you relax into your own flow -Hour long classes=perfection! And.......they have an incredible introductory special. Try it! read more

Best vibes in town in this loving space. I have been a member since 2010 and love the community and awesome teachers I have experienced through Yoga Shala Midtown and Arden. I love all styles of yoga encourage everyone to expand their practice to include vinyasa, yin, Kundalini yoga and meditation. Yoga Shala can hook you up in all these areas. I am now teaching Kundalini Yoga and meditation Monday Mornings at the Shala and welcome you to come for an experience! read more

Since restarting my yoga practice after a year hiatus, I have been to two classes at Yoga Shala. When I first walked in the door, I was greeted by Michael, who gave me a warm smile and a kind handshake. I immediately felt welcomed, like he was truly happy I had signed up to be a new student. As more people began to show up, I noticed most were hugging and chatting. I also saw Michael and Jamie greeting each person by name. Already I could feel a sense of community; these people were here to support each other and to grow in their practice. My first Vinyasa class with Jamie was just the right amount of rigor (let's just say I was still sore three days later, in a good way!) At the end of the class, I thanked Jamie and she gave me a hug, like we were old friends. Today was my second class. I walked through the door, and Michael greeted me by name. I was pleasantly surprised; again, I felt welcomed. Throughout the session, Michael provided helpful guidance with my poses without making me feel like I was doing everything completely wrong. I left feeling rejuvenated and calm, and I immediately signed up for three more classes. If you are looking for a yoga studio that is welcoming, challenging, and really feels like a tight-knit community, look no further than Yoga Shala. read more

I shopped around a lot for a yoga studio in Sacramento and tried intro offers at pretty much every studio in midtown and east sac. Yoga Shala was my favorite out of all of them. The studio has a great community feel and the classes are the right balance of meditation and work out. They also provide towels, mat cleaner, blocks, etc for free, which is a perk! read more

Favorite yoga studio I've ever been to. Every class is full of breakthroughs, thanks to the incredibly intentional instructors and the sacred environment. I'm incredibly grateful to have found such a safe haven to develop my practice and experience growth. Length of class -perfect. Difficulty level -perfect. Music - freaking. perfect. Temperature -perfect. (I do NOT like hot yoga classes so this very slightly heated room is great.....I can get a great workout in, as well as meditation, AND go to a meeting after without the need to shower....need I say more?!) Teachers - one of a kind. I've been to Andrew, Tyler, Tristina and Johanna. Love them ALL Pricing - amazing Intro special. Try it for 39 days for $30 And to wrap it all up, they have *Kundalini* classes. This is rare in Sacramento....and while Vinyasa is at their core (and probably yours) I highly suggest giving Kundalini 3 tries/classes before you decide against it. It is not so much a physical workout, but just trust me when I say it will change your life. read more

I'm from LA & was visiting. Signed up for a class over at another studio in midtown & walked out mid class it was so bad. Found Yoga Shala after striking out on several studios. I'm sorry but when it's 106 outside ain't nobody wanna do yoga in someone else's sweat puddle. So I walk in to Yoga Shala & it's well ventilated, clean, dry, and nicely lit. Immediately I felt like I was in the right place. Every teacher I had here was great, even the ones you could tell were newer. I can't say enough good things about this studio & the people & this will be studio home away from home forever now! read more

I love this place, and have been trying (not very hard) to keep it my little secret studio. But all my friends have heard about them through me so I guess its time for yelp to know too. I started yoga about three years ago. I first went to Zuda. They were always packed, had a separate room from the desk entrance and was very business like. I thought thats how yoga is since it has become so mainstream. Even though I went to the same class for two years at Zuda, I can guarantee no one knew my name or even realized when I wasnt there. Now onto Yoga Shala. I came here because I bought a living social deal. When I first walked in I was a little surprised. It did not have its own entry, but the desk and yoga area was all one room. And I very quickly learned that Yoga Shala didnt run like a business but like a family ( sounds kinda cheesy I know, but still true). Instantly they got to know me as a person and that's probably the number one reason why I love it here. I feel like a part of their community, they are happy when Im there and I dont feel like an outsider just coming for a workout. they also offer mats to use for practice without a fee, and towels to clean up with. Classes arn't jam packed, mats touching, just in order to get more profit per a class, but rather space to stretch, space to breathe. It's not hot yoga but rather warm yoga. I like warm yoga better. I dont feel Im pushing my limits in the heat but rather able to push my limits in my poses. They have street parking, but the area of midtown they are located means plenty of spots to find a space. I seek out Biffy's classes. I love her classes. Her words are so inspirational and make me feel so good about myself, yet she can still kick my butt, making my muscles shake and working up a sweat. She even takes recommendations for class in case you're eager to work on something in particular. Biffy learned my name right away, and expresses her happiness when I return after a break, she is a wonderfully sweet person. Tyler is one good looking fellow, which is probably why all the class of his that I attended were filled to the brim with women. His classes offer a more lighthearted fun to them. Different from other classes Ive taken and a nice change when you just want to have fun. BOTTOM LINE: Great place to go for yoga. They care about you and the practice more so than the money (like other studios). They offer a variety of class types and teachers. So depending on your style you can choose what suits you best. read more

This is a wonderful studio! The instructors are all genuinely interested in your progress and they're so knowledgeable! They had a great deal for first time students and seem to be well connected with the community, participating in events and challenges. The only downside is that the classes are really popular (not a bad thing for the studio at all!) so get there early if you're picky about your spot. Also with so many people the room gets really warm, especially in the summer. I know it's better for your muscles to work out in warmer temperatures but it was so hot a couple times that I got dizzy, despite guzzling water and making sure I ate before class. I'd definitely come back if I lived in the area! read more

I positively love Yoga Shala. I've tried all of the yoga studios in midtown since I moved here, and I've decided to settle here. Here is the perfect balance of: 1) awesome workout (depending on the class); and 2) mind/body/soul-perfecting extravaganza. Yoga Shala teachers take that step to making you feel like you're tapping into the more spiritual/mental aspects of yoga without going too far for me. I love that their business model - sign up early if you want, show up and sign in, borrow a mat, borrow a towel, whatever. Yoga Shala feels like a community operation, more than a business out to squeeze every cent of value it can out of you. Also, it's never too hot - just hot enough! I can work really hard through the whole class without getting the spins like I have at Zuda or Corepower in other cities. I give Yoga Shala infinity stars! The subsequent comments are not criticisms, just selfish suggestions for the weekday classes! :) At the end of the day, Yoga is my main form of exercise. I know, I know, it's not just supposed to be about that (and I do like that Shala provides a vehicle for the spiritual side), but as woman AND a foodie/wine enthusiast, I just have to work out a lot to stay in shape. I'm also very busy with work, so I have to make exercising time count. For that, Buck's class is simply awesome. I come out drenched, and I'm always sore the next day. It is challenging and the flow is constant (and I love that he adds core work in). My only complaint - only one of his classes is after working hours :(. I really wish they'd add more Buck-like classes post 6:00pm! I also go to Emily's Thursday class. I don't always get the work-out I really need there, but I'm actually OK with that. She is always teaching a new pose (and poses I'm usually too scared to try if they just pop up throughout Vinyasa), and I figure if I'm going to keep doing yoga 4 days a week that's how I'll get better and stronger. If I feel like I didn't keep my heartrate high enough during class, I'll run for a bit the next day. But just one more intense Vinyasa class in the evening would even this out perfectly! Saturdays are good too, and I usually go to Lindsey. She does a bit more of the self-guided Vinyasa than I normally like, but I think it's good to gain some autonomy in the practice. Also, I am usually working hard. My main point here is that the teaching is really diverse, so there is something for everyone! read more