Production Pause: The Shala, Cape Town

The Shala Yoga- Cape Town, South Africa

The Shala Yoga

It’s no secret that bouncing around countries, juggling time zones, and the demands of production can take its toll.  

As a (hopefully recovering) work-aholic, dedicating some time each day to myself and not just my work takes consistent effort. My yoga practice is something that I can easily plug into my daily life, even while in the most remote corners of the world. There’s always room in my travel kit for workout clothes, and my Manduka travel mat that folds up teeny-tiny & weighs nearly nothing. I’m not dogmatic in my approach or practice, so exploring new yoga studios, teachers and styles is a rewarding adventure.

A few years ago in Cape Town, I stumbled upon The Shala yoga school & I was excited to have the opportunity to fit in a handful of classes on my latest trip. 

I especially appreciate the longer 90-minute classes, especially the Master Class with the studio owner Tasmin Sheehy. In Cape Town, the 60-minute format seems to be more common, and if I’m going to give my brain a break, I sometimes need at least 20 minutes before my monkey-mind calms down & I can unfold into my presence.  The yoga conditioning classes with Naomi Marshak were also a delightful mix - playful & challenging. 

Lovely to note: The Shala runs various  supports other small and/or  local businesses with its sale of yoga accessories, such as Desha ( https://www.desha.co.za/) , health supplements & even healthy treats. 

This is not your typical franchised run-of-the-mill yoga studio. Everything has a warmth and soul to it, including the receptionists. The heritage Victorian building makes its first inviting impression, and the studio space is completely calm, warm & serene. The actual practice space is on the upper level, with lofted ceilings and an enchanting installation of hundreds of butterflies. 

 Thank you, Shala Yoga, for giving my mind & body a real Production Pause!

The Details

Changing Rooms: Yes

Showers: Yes

Price: $$ 

Website- https://theshala.co.za

Address: 15 Wandel St, Dunkley Square, Gardens, Cape Town, 8001