Pathways to inner peace at Shanti Yoga Shala

Through the continuous flow of breathing at Shanti Yoga Shala, yogis learn to unify their poses

Overview: Studio owner Nathalie Croix has created a space that is centered on yoga as much as it is on healing through positive energy and practice. She and her dedicated teachers provide classes that nurture the body as well as the mind. Croix teaches that “the essence of yoga is truth and love” and that one should use the same strategy to “pause and breathe” both on and off the mat.

Shanti Yoga Shala’s gorgeous interior for a truly New Orleans yoga experience

Ambiance: The studio combines a swanky, modern interior design store with a very zen atmosphere. At the end of class teachers can turn on a light that projects a myriad of cosmos-esque green lights on the ceiling, which I found to be a delightful way to enter into savanasa and final relaxation and meditation.

Community: Shanti is a vinyasa studio, meaning every posture is linked to the other postures and to the breath in a continuous flow. This allows for a cleansing and energizing practice, which is reflected in the positive community of practitioners. Croix manages to harness the shakti (energy) of New Orleans and passes this on to her teachers and students.

A Shanti Yoga Shala student practices amid brightness and air

Classes/My Picks: Croix teaches a fabulous class and focuses on allowing the body and soul to “learn and grow.” She provides excellent verbal and physical adjustments as well as a combination of led asanas and independent movement.

Price: Many of you may have already purchased the living social 20 class pass back in the summer for $20, which was a major steal. If not, classes are $14 for a single class ($10 with student ID); $65 for five classes; $120 for ten classes ($90 with student ID); $150 for one month unlimited; $600 for six months unlimited; and $30 for two weeks unlimited for first time students.