Austin Yoga Shala was established in 1980. At the time, founder Stan Hafner taught the Ashtanga Yoga of Shri Pattabhi Jois, who chose Austin Yoga Shala as the base location for his second United States visit.The Yoga Shala teaching palapa is a hand built structure, in a garden setting. It is screened and open to the mild climate that we enjoy here in the spring, early summer and fall months. There are walking trails and flower gardens that make the area pleasant and peaceful.
We built the studio with the help of students and friends and wanted to keep it small to allow for a intimate atmosphere that is conducive to helping our students feel comfortable and not just part of a crowd. In the event of inclement weather, classes and mentoring sessions are moved into the equally comfortable practice room, in the teacher's lovingly restored house.
Austin Yoga Shala is located in Travis Heights, a centrally located, historic district of Austin, Texas. City parks, hike and bike trails, Barton Springs, sleeping accommodations, popular eateries, small boutique shops, and music, of the finest kind, are located within a comfortable walking distance.
Fun:
The Continental Club - 1315 S. Congress
First Thursday - Along S. Congress
Threadgill's World HQ - 301 W. Riverside
Opal Divine's - 3601 S. Congress
Ruta Maya - 3601 S. Congress
6th Street - Clubs And Music - Downtown
Barton Springs Pool - Nothing else like it - Zilker Park
The Capitol Of Texas - North End Of Congress Ave.
Austin Yoga Shala is fortunate in that, since its inception some 30 years ago, the South Congress area, adjacent to our neighborhood, has gone through a modern day renaissance, making the locations shown below, for the most part, a comfortable, 3-4 block walk from Austin Yoga Shala.
The listings that aren't in the immediate neighborhood, but should not be missed, like Barton Springs, are a comfortable bike ride's distance. In fact, Stan's brother, Steve, bike's to the springs and swims, daily, in addition to kayaking Barton Creek when conditions are right.
Accommodations, within a nice, 3-block Walk:
be appreciated. The thought and passion that created this unique travelers stay-over
has brought about something truly special. The outdoor garden is a beautiful spot to
reflect and relax, in an inspired, and inspiring, setting.
definitely not of the cold, corporate, cookie-cutter variety.
Each room is individually styled and furnished with a
wonderfully creative touch.
Food:
El Sol Y La Luna - 1224 South Congress
Guero's Taco Bar - 1412 South Congress
Zen Japanese - 1303 South Congress
Amy's Ice Creams - 1301 S. Congress
Bouldin Creek Coffeehouse - 1501 S. First
Magnolia Cafe - 24/8 - 1920 S. Congress
Vespaio - 1610 S. Congress
Enoteca - Bistro Next To Vespaio
South Congress Cafe - 1600 S Congress Ave
Whole Foods Market - 525 N Lamar
