Tracing back 5000 years, yoga is an ancient practice rooted in physical postures and meditative techniques. Because of its benefits for both the body and mind, it has transcended generations and become a beacon of holistic well-being. Furthermore, amidst the bustle of our busy lives, yoga offers a moment of calmness and re-centering. We’ve compiled a list of yoga studios across the country to encourage you to roll out your mat, focus your mind and take your yoga practice to the next level.
The Nest Space is a wellness centre that offers holistic health solutions and they’ve just moved into a beautiful new venue a couple of weeks ago. In addition to yoga classes, they offer alternative healing options, including sound therapy, hypnotherapy, reiki and massage therapy, as well as a vegan café and a zero-waste grocer. They boast a variety of popular yoga styles like Vinyasa and Hatha and they even have Kiddies Yoga.
Classes take place in the evenings and can be booked online, with various packages available.
Established in 2006, the Living Yoga studio is a sacred space that encourages yoga students to immerse themselves in their practice both on and off the mat. What sets them apart from other studios in South Africa is that they’re one of the only studios in the country to offer Jivamukti yoga. It’s based on Vinyasa, but fosters a specific lifestyle that includes scripture, devotion, non-violence and meditation. At least two sessions are hosted daily, with both morning and evening options to accommodate varying schedules. Classes can be booked here.
Situated in one of the most beautiful neighbourhoods just outside of Cape Town’s buzzing CBD, Yoga Life is one of the most popular yoga studios in the Mother City. They offer a variety of styles, from Vinyasa and Bikram to their infamously challenging (but equally rewarding) Power classes. Additionally, their team of instructors are world-class and the community is inviting. They’ve opened up a second studio in Noordhoek (just over 30km from the De Waterkant studio) which offers the same classes but a completely different setting. Drop-in classes and packages can be booked online.
Located in the Greenhouse at Rocklands Health & Movement Centre in Constantia, ReUnion Yoga Studio is the picture of tranquility. Here, you’re literally surrounded by nature. In addition to their variety of in-studio classes, they also offer yoga under the trees (a firm favourite) and guided walking meditations. ReUnion Yoga Studio keeps their classes small, ensuring that their highly skilled instructors can pay close attention to you. Furthermore, some people find the smaller classes less intimidating. Various morning and evening classes can be booked here.
Located in a private jungle not even five minutes from the blue flag beach in Umzumbe, Mantis & Moon Backpackers is home to one of our favourite yoga studios in the country. Why? Because of the magical setting! But also because of the interesting local and international folks who form part of the Mantis & Moon community. With classes every morning, the serene studio offers a wide array of styles to help you reset and recentre in the heart of the jungle. Check out their website to find out how to book.
Founded by mother and daughter duo – Niki and Ellen van Velden – Manifest Yoga is a stunning, spacious studio located in uMhlanga. Founded on the belief that yoga is for everyone, theirs is an especially welcoming community. Styles on offer include heated and non-heated Vinyasa, Ashtanga, Yin Yoga and meditation. You can book both morning and evening classes here.
Founded just over a decade ago, Hotpod is one of Europe’s largest yoga businesses, with 50+ locations around the world. As the name suggests, all classes (rooted in Vinyasa flow) are taught in a heated room (read pod). At approximately 37 degrees, it can be quite intense, but the expert instructors guide you at your own pace. You’re certainly in safe hands. The advantage of the heat is that it allows you to stretch further, breathe deeper and sweat harder. It’s truly therapeutic. Classes can be booked online.
A beautiful studio located in The Space Holistic & Wellness Centre, Escape Yoga studio was founded just over five years ago. Annerita van Zyl started her yoga journey in Goa, India and completed her training in various styles, including Hatha, Vinyasa, Yin and Fly Yoga – styles which are all on offer at Escape Yoga. They also offer Kiddies Yoga which, surprisingly, is quite a unique offering. Classes can be booked here.
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