Makara Yoga Shala
A Sacred Space of learning the true benefits of Yoga
Click on EVENTS for in person classes
Join a ClassPhoto Gallery
Why a Yoga Shala Vs. Yoga Studio?
What to Expect at the Shala
At the Shala you will have a deep understanding of the benefits of yoga. Our yoga classes are focused on teaching traditional Hatha Yoga that has been taught for generations. Our dharma is to provide quality education to those who enter the Shala and share what we practice on a daily basis while living a true, authentic Yogic life. Our experience and education is comprised of over 30 yrs of teaching with our combined education exceeding 15,000 hours. This is not a place of exercise and not run as a corporate space. We do not teach what is trendy, or water down the poses to market yoga as a ‘fitness’ trend. Our goal is to provide you with the tools to create a healthy mind and soul. Life Coaching provides additional resources available to you to learn how to implement mindfulness as part of your daily practice.
Yoga as a Physical Discipline
Yoga increases muscular strength and endurance, increases flexibility of your joints, develops your balance and improves posture. These are all critical elements of living a healthy life free of chronic pain. Yoga increases immune functions, decreases blood pressure and heart rate. Yoga practiced regularly can manage anxiety, depression and be a powerful healing modality in combination with allopathic medicine.
Calm Your Mind
Yoga not only improves your body but also helps with mindfulness and meditation. A regular meditation practice through yoga (or as a stand alone practice) helps to control the focus of your mind and alleviate the inner chatter that is present throughout the day. The practice of mindfulness begins to penetrate other aspects of your life in relationships with family, co-workers, your relationship with food, body and health. Your inner voice is the first step to healthful change.
Social
Testimonials and Reviews
Huge Gift to the World
“Maureen is my yoga Moma. She helped me during a physical injury. Her life coaching helped me connect to my emotions to truly understand the physical changes I was experiencing. I highly recommend.
— N.M., Torrance
First Time
“I encourage anyone interested in yoga to give Maureen a chance. She is not only compassionate but exudes anatomical knowledge while guiding you through the various poses.
— J.H., Torrance
Hearts Delight
“Maureen's yoga instruction is detailed and precise. I enjoy her wisdom she shares about mindfulness.
— L.A., Lomita
Life Saver
“I met Maureen in 2007 during a chemo treatment for colon cancer. She helped me physically and emotionally.
— C.D., Manhattan Beach
Favorite Therapist
“I was a cancer patient with metastatic melanoma. Out of all my health care providers Maureen was the best.
— C.A., Manhattan Beach
Invaluable Guidance
“Maureen helped me develop a daily yoga/meditation practice during a stressful divorce. Her knowledge is superior.
— R.N., RPV
Life Changing
“I don't often write reviews but I'm compelled to because of the amazing changes in my life. Maureen's work as a therapist and life coach has been truly life changing for me. I am free of anxiety and have more confidence about making good decisions. Her extensive education and professionalism and passion is first rate and 5 stars all the way.
— D.D., Manhattan Beach
Amazing Life Coach
“Maureen is an amazing Life Coach. Our sessions really helped me move forward. She is empathetic and professional. She has a versatile tool box that helps anyone gain clarity.
— J.J.
Most Knowledgeable
“Maureen is one of the most knowledgeable women I know in her experience and teaching yoga and yoga therapy. She listens, is kind and patient. Her extensive knowledge of the human anatomy coupled with her lovely persona makes for a great experience.
— R.B.
Gifted Teacher
“Maureen is a gifted teacher and life coach. Her heartfelt encouragement reminds everyone that we are all on a journey, while paths may be different. It's a gift to know her.
— K.C.
Maureen is a wonderful guiding light and have kept me motivated physically and mentally for over two years.
— C.C.
Maureen, you are an expert in talking us through asana which is a rare skill.
— L.B.