★ 5

Magical place, wonderful folks.

Source: Google

★ 5

CYS is a special place and I’ve been blessed to have visited multiple times. The land is as beautiful as the people that cultivate it. Truly a gem.

Source: Google

★ 5

Circle Yoga Shala is one of those rare places that offers something truly invaluable. The teachers are deeply dedicated to sharing the foundations of teaching and exploring the authentic meaning of yoga. The property in Jasper is stunning, and the people I met were just as beautiful. Thank you for one of the most meaningful and transformative experiences of my life.

Source: Google

★ 5

I recently finished the 200-hr YTT at Circle Yoga Shala and this program and the farm by far exceeded my expectations. I would highly recommend the Shala if you are interested in learning to teach yoga!

Source: Google

★ 5

Stella, Holly, and Matt are all incredibly welcoming people and the land itself evokes a sense of peace and renewal. Thank you!!

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Such an amazing experience! I could not recommend visiting the Shala more. The property is beautiful and the people are simply amazing. Oh man don't even get me started on the food. Yumm! I am already looking forward to returning. If you are thinking about going, I 100% recommend you do. You won't regret it. :)

Source: Google

★ 5

Circle Yoga Shala as a place that fosters being present, education, and community. Every visit leaves me restored and ready to come back to my life and more ready to face the challenges of the day to day. The lessons I have learned are amazing and I've shaped my personal yoga practice, the way I teach Yoga, and my career outside of Yoga.

Source: Google

★ 5

I recently completed the MoveWise biomechanical correction program with CYS. It builds on the 300 hour YTT program very well but was accessible and digestable for my classmates that were trained elsewhere. As usual, the program was dense with useful material and and delivered in a thoughtful and intelligent way. Highly recommend!

Source: Google

★ 5

CYS is an incredible community and setting for learning, relaxing, and getting to know oneself more fully.

Source: Google

★ 5

had a wonderful week at the circle yoga shala for the full circle retreat in July. each day offered something new with educational elements but also so much room for discussion and personalization. the entire crew there is so knowledgable and adaptable, really a testament to the passion and care infused into their practices. my stay was comfortable and the surroundings were beautiful. Matt and Holly have put so much love into this space and it truly shows:)

Source: Google

★ 5

Circle Yoga Shala’s week long Full Circle Retreat was a wonderful experience. From the moment I arrived and throughout my stay, the people that are CYS made me feel welcome, comfortable and supported. Circle Yoga Shala is truly a magical environment with natural beauty and authentic connection. Thank you, CYS, for the community and intention you share at The Shala!

Source: Google

★ 5

Had the best week in years at the Shala! Pls offer more retreats and offer a men's retreat with matt!

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Just a week ago, I was fortunate to attend a Circle Shala Ayurvedic Cooking weekend. In the midst of gentleness, respectfulness, and love, knowledge was shared. Although I do not have an in-depth knowledge of yoga upon which the Ayurvedic concepts are based and couldn’t make some, I’m sure, mind-blowing connections, I still found the weekend extremely beneficial.
I learned about six tastes (sweet, salty, sour, astringent, pungent, and bitter) and the difference playing with those tastes makes in building nutritious, delicious meals. The results were astounding! I think my family will be so happy I attended. And I’d love to learn more.
The weekend was also good for the soul. The surroundings are retreat-like (beautiful, peaceful, and therapeutic); wise, interesting, and caring people shared life and ideas; and new human and animal friends were made. I highly recommend treating yourself to a Circle Shala experience.

Source: Google

★ 5

I waited 20 years to find a school that taught me what the shala taught. I wanted the real deal and after researching and moving around finding Kate, Stela, Holly and Matt was a transformational experience. It is a school of wisdom and self actualization. It’s night and day different than what most training's offer. I wanted to learn more than asana and anatomy, I wanted the why and how that only a deeper curiosity leads to. They delivered! Worth every penny and shed off a lot of years of stress and limiting beliefs. Deeply grateful.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

My time at the Shala is continually refreshing, educational and soulful. From the cooking classes to the yoga and philosophy, I always leave inspired and more grounded!

Source: Google

★ 5

Circle Yoga Shala is a profoundly impactful space with teachers that guide you in knowing yourself and creating relationship with the inner world and outer world. I am grateful for my time in their 200hr YTT.

Source: Google

★ 5

I attended the 200-hour accelerated yoga teacher training program in June 2024 and loved it. I felt completely taken care of during my time at the Shala and made friendships I hope last a lifetime. The setting is rugged and so beautiful. I'll definitely be back!

Source: Google

★ 5

This is an experiential place that offers Yoga Teacher Trainings, Ayurvedic Cooking weekends, advanced movement trainings, and so much more. I can’t recommend their programing enough!

Source: Google

★ 5

I spent a week at Circle Yoga Shala—such a peaceful inclusive experience! The grounds were beautiful, the staff and other attendees were delightful and the food was amazing. I would highly recommend the Seva program. Although it was a lot of work, it was very satisfying and tempered with yoga, meditation and philosophy classes—a nice balance. I left recharged!

Source: Google

★ 5

The Shala is like coming home. At my first intensive I was able to disconnect from the busyness of my home life and immerse myself in the process of becoming like I never have.
The group I have been so blessed to be with gelled immediately and we bonded as if we had known each other for a lifetime.
Stela and Kate are immensely knowledgeable teachers. Holly’s meditation is superb and I especially love the philosophy class with Matt.
The vegetarian food is simply amazing. The flavors and care taken in preparing it made me feel like I was at a 5 star resort.
The Shala will always be a special place to me. I’m so appreciative to have found it and have the ability to participate in this process.

Source: Google

★ 5

Thank you, Stela and Matt for an amazing experience at the Shala. It was truly transformative!

Source: Google

★ 5

High vibrational space, amazing teachers, and a must visit location. Matt and Holly have created such a beautiful and sacred sanctuary for people to connect, learn, and grow. Thank you for your wisdom and service to humanity!

Source: Google

★ 5

The Shala is a truly magical place. I just finished the 200 hour yoga teacher training and have been deeply transformed in a way I did not expect. The environment is rich with intention and care and is the perfect space to connect to yourself and the world around you. The food is prepared with Ayurvedic principles and is nourishing to body and soul. The trainings are created and delivered in a way that pay homage to the lineage of the Indian traditions while ensuring modernity and relatability. My teachers embodied wisdom, kindness, and cultivated a safe place to learn and build community, allowing me to find rich, life-long friendships in such a short period of time. The Shala awoke me to the profundity and wonder within my life and my relationships, and I am forever grateful that I chose to train here with these beautiful people.

Source: Google

★ 5

I just completed the 200 hour year-long training program at the Shala and can't say enough good things about my experience. The training is top-notch, covering biomechanics in a way that keeps students safe while allowing them to explore. The program goes in-depth on the history and philosophy of yoga so that you can teach in a way that honors its roots and potential for transformation. Lodging and food at the Shala are comfortable and tasty, and the whole atmosphere is really protected so that you can rest, learn, and enjoy community. I’d recommend any program or offering there!

Source: Google

★ 5

The Circle Yoga Shala offers rich curriculum to supplement an existing yoga practice with several offerings including a 200YT, 300YT, yoga therapy certification and Ayurvedic cooking classes. The curriculum goes beyond the yoga asana practice and biomechanics by also educating on traditional lineages, ancient scripture, and self observation. No matter the offering you will receive a high quality, intentional program from the gifted teachers at CYS.

Source: Google

★ 5

The property is serene and vibrant with simplistic natural beauty. The location is perfect to step away from the busyness and plunge into Arkansas finest landscapes. The owners and residents are kind and welcoming. The retreats and programs are perfectly curated. I strongly recommend SEVA service. Nothing blends the teachings of yoga and meditation better than giving back selfless service to your teachers and the
land.

Source: Google

★ 5

I attended the 200 hour Yoga Teacher Training and received so much more. My soul is firmly attached to my body and my entire life has been changed for the better. I can't express enough gratitude. They helped me truly deeply understand some very important life lessons. They also sent us home with the tools to remain this intentional and to teach others. Thank you all for being a shining light in a dark world.

Source: Google

★ 5

I cannot speak highly enough of my experience at the Shala. It is a serene and welcoming place, teeming with natural beauty in the heart of the Ozarks. The meals were delicious and nourishing while the space was well-maintained and inviting. The instructors are attentive to each student's needs, yet allow space for self-discovery. The curriculum was rigorous but accessible to all. The Shala also makes clear the importance of studying the ancient, sacred texts. Most importantly, you are given the tools to quiet the mind and be with the body. These tools allow us to serve others. I have the utmost gratitude to have studied with Holly, Stela, Kate, and Matt. I cherish this immersive enriching experience. The Shala is a personal safe haven: a place for growth, renewal, and rest.

Source: Google

★ 5

I went through the 200 hour yoga teacher training and it changed my life. I also find the resources provided from the Shala to be incredibly helpful in improving and maintaining my teaching methods.

Source: Google

★ 5

The founders, Holly and Matt, have designed the most comprehensive, empowering, and inclusive approach to yoga that I have ever encountered. Their trainers and staff are some of the most incredible people I've ever met. My experience at the Shala for the 200hr YTT was nothing short of profound. The food is fabulous, the classes are both poignant with history and relevant to modern times, the setting is amazing, but at the top of it all, the people involved in this place are true gems. I was lucky enough to be able to train here and now work to honor the lineage of what I've learned and pay forward the gifts I've received from here: gifts of knowledge, wisdom, community, and a framework for constant inquiry. I cannot recommend this place/people/programs more highly

Source: Google

★ 5

My experience at the Circle Yoga Shala has left me with a different sense of myself and what I want to do next. The program was everything I was looking for and more. The 200YTT program provides a foundational framework for posture, movement, sequencing, and cueing which allows creativity and authenticity without sacrificing form and integrity. The training respectfully meets students at all levels of incoming knowledge, providing a supportive space for inquiry. The teachings of yoga philosophy provide a meaningful connection to yogic wisdom, with reverence for its origins. The surroundings are beautiful and the food offerings healthy and thoughtfully prepared from ingredients grown and raised on the grounds. There are lots of sweet and friendly dogs, chickens, and horses too. I am grateful for this beautiful community in the Ozarks and the opportunity I’ve had to receive training here. I will value the fellowship I’ve encountered throughout my life.

Source: Google

★ 5

A unique and peaceful place that is a perfect setting for the journey to become a yoga teacher. I loved everything about it, from our teachers, to the atmosphere, the food, and the bonds formed with my fellow students. It was very convenient to be & stay at the location of CYS. I felt that gave a more intimate experience where you could also devote your free time to immersing yourself in your studies without any unwanted noise or distractions. Matt & Holly are just great people. And they will have you teaching your first yoga class immediately. I love & I believe in the way that we were taught how to sequence our yoga classes & I feel it sets me apart from other yoga teachers. My favorite part was yoga philosophy with Matt. He teaches it in a way that you want to absorb all that you can and I found myself wanting to learn and know more on an even deeper level. I still listen to their podcast today because they are truly knowledgeable and passionate about yoga and their students. I miss you guys! Tiffany

Source: Google

★ 5

I experienced intelligent and demanding instruction and support!
As demanding as the courses were, so powerful was the support the students received that it was empowering rather than intimidating. And I noticed that the older students (even over 70) were treated as seriously as the 20-year-old students. And friendships seemed to blossom and networking was automatic. I feel challenged but confident when I prepare practices for my classes now because of what I’ve experienced at Circle Yoga Shala.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Listen to the call and go to the Shala! I attended the 500hr training and was appreciative of how thoughtful and organized the material was. Even after a degree in kinesiology, I learned so much more here and was able to put it into practice immediately. It is designed so that you receive a ton of inspiring info, but also have direct experience through application and integration. Can not speak highly enough about the teachers/teachings and of course the beautiful natural surroundings. Life changing!

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

I came in search of intellectual knowledge about yoga, but what I walked away with far exceeded my expectations. Circle Yoga Shala provided me with a foundation to begin teaching yoga, transform my home practice, and revolutionize the way I approach day to day living. The Shala is a place of balance and healing, while also a place to be formed as an excellent teacher. From delicious vegetarian meals to peaceful farm surroundings to compassionate, experienced teachers who helped shape a community of learners and practitioners of an ancient wisdom tradition. I attained my 200hr teacher training recognition, but I have also been forever changed as a human being. This school is the gold standard for yoga.

Source: Google

★ 5

The Shala offered me a rare place to get out of the fast pace of the world and dive into a deep study of my body and mind. After completing my 200 hour teacher training, I am physically stronger than ever, and have the capacity to help others towards healing in a profound way. The teachers live this work, and their dedication to excellence is felt in how effortlessly the knowledge made its way into me. I trust what they have taught me and couldn't be more grateful for my time there.

I can't encourage you enough to make the investment in yourself and to support a place providing a genuinely enriching offering.

Source: Google

★ 5

Incredibly grateful for my time and the teachings at Circle Yoga Shala. I’ve completed my 200hr and 500hr YTT here as well as a week of Seva. It’s a place that allows you to drop in, connect with nature and come home to Self while learning the true roots of yoga and how to move in an intelligent and safe way. I always come away with more knowledge and love to share with my classes and the community around me. The Circle Yoga Shala is a very special place with incredible teachers that support you and guide you throughout your trainings and beyond as well as challenging you to think in new ways that promote deep growth as a teacher and human. Not to mention the amazing food prepared here! So grateful to have found my forever yoga home and always look forward to returning!

Source: Google

★ 5

Amazing knowledge. Matt created the best meals. This is a fantastic place to learn, relax, and spend time with people on the yogic path.

Source: Google

★ 5

The Shala offers a safe environment for self-exploration. The teachers are highly-experienced, thoughtful and compassionate. The journey they offer is well thought-out and meaningful. The meals are visually beautiful, healthy and organic. I highly recommend the Circle Yoga Shala and I personally look forward to my next visit.

Source: Google

★ 5

I can't say enough about Holly, Matt, and all the teachers at CYS -- I've learned so much and, always, I am left wanting more. The teachings are so meaningful and practical whether it be for my own growth/experience or in teaching others. And the Shala itself.....it is magical...good things happen on the mountain!

Source: Google

★ 5

The physical components of CYS Training have been vital to my asana practice and to all of my physical activities. CYT 200 hours program of Speaking and teaching with direct action has enabled me to express myself with clarity to my professional relationships (students, clients) , and my personal associates(friends & family).
CYT 300 hour program of Ayurveda Doshas and their qualities have improved my assessments of students and clients. Both programs nurtured the creative elements of what yoga has to offer every individual. If one is truly open & willing to be transformed by what yoga has to offer, CYS’s space away from the world and amongst the stars is of the greatest options for yoga trainings.

Source: Google

★ 5

My journey into self inquiry has been guided in an extremely consistent, thoughtful, and heartfelt way by the teachers at the shala. I completed my 500 hour training with a wealth of new knowledge and as I continue to learn through the yoga therapy program I am constantly surprised at how much this program gives. I learn from my teachers everyday, no matter where I am because what they are teaching is applicable to every potent moment that arises. I am so grateful to have found this school.

Source: Google

★ 5

Coming to the Shala always feels like coming home. I come home to a place and to people that have helped me grow into the person I am. In coming home to the Shala, I come home to myself.

Source: Google

★ 5

Circle Yoga Shala is such an amazing experience! In the 12 years I have trained there, I learn more and more about myself and that keeps me coming back and each time, getting closer and closer to my Essence.

Source: Google

★ 4

Source: Google

★ 5

The Shala started a long awaited journey for me. I wanted to improve my physical practice and what I got was a much needed reboot of my spirituality.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

The Shala is a great place to find yourself and what you want to share with the world. They teach strong foundations and offer many ways for you to expand yourself as a teacher. Every class and client I have guided always comments on how I am different then other teachers, and how wonderful their sessions are. The proof is in the practice. Thank you Yoga Circle Shala.

Source: Google

★ 5

Circle Yoga Shala is an oasis perched atop Shiloh mountain in Northern Arkansas located in the Buffalo River National Park. It is a place that welcomes all guests/students inviting each to enter the flow of yoga farm life. In season the gardens are abundant and boastful; the food is fresh and well prepared and delicious. All accommodations are adequate, comfortable and well appointed. No matter what brings you to this graceful place, you are sure to be, in the very least, pointed in the direction of your true essence. ❤️

Source: Google

★ 5

Circle Yoga Shala is a very special place on planet Earth. The Teachers are knowledgeable, engaging, compassionate and enjoy sharing their Yogi expertise with students. I completed 200YTT March 2021 and highly recommend this school to anyone interested in Yoga Teacher Training. Namaste

Source: Google

★ 5

You should seek, but you’ll not find, a more authentic and in depth set of programs than the ones offered through CYS!

Source: Google

★ 5

A rich invitation to the path of wisdom and joy through Yoga can be found here.

Source: Google

★ 5

Matt and Holly helped me grow spiritually and physically. Whether you want to be a teacher or not, their teachings support all your needs.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Circle Yoga Shala offers its trainees a high quality, systematic blueprint for teaching elegantly layered, intentionally sequenced classes that integrate many core aspects of yoga: presence, breath, rhythm, integration, and stillness. Strengths of this program include a robust focus on self-inquiry and a bio-mechanically appropriate framework. This framework is conducive to a sustainable, lifelong practice and promotes accessibility by tailoring instructions to the needs of each individual. The farm-to-table ethos of the Shala embodies an understanding of the web of ecological relationships with which humans are inevitably interconnected, a much deeper aspect of yoga not often acknowledged or talked about. Not to mention, the artfully prepared meals are delicious and wonderful. The opportunity to practice outside in the beautiful, mountainous, farm setting and to spend each day in training practicing close to the earth is something that is also incredibly special about the Shala. The faculty are incredibly knowledgeable and honed in their crafts. I would definitely recommend Circle Yoga Shala to anyone who is in search of a solid foundation for yoga teaching or looking to refine and deepen their own teaching and embodiment of yoga.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

If you think you know anything about Yoga or Self Transformation, then Matt and Holly of the Circle Yoga Shala will more than likely test that and at the same time introduce you to something you can not find on FB, Instagram, TikTok, or any social media. What they offer is the about the closest thing to something “real.”

Source: Google

★ 5

The teaching here is above par. They have organized the curriculum to allow the assimilation of concepts and understanding. The focus on teaching and composing sequences begins on the first day and these opportunities allow the gradual development of skill and confidence. No finer yoga teaching can be found anywhere else, in my opinion.

Source: Google

★ 5

I did my 300hr at the Shala and couldn’t have asked for a better experience or more knowledgeable teachers. I left feeling prepared to teach in a variety of settings and with a much stronger grasp of movement and yoga theory. The experience of staying on the land and having such beautiful, nourishing meals is hard to oversell - I cannot recommend the Shala highly enough.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

The healthiest journey into experiencing oneself.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

This must be the place! Incredible people, food, fellowship, and education, all for the purpose of transformation. These are true teachers, and you will come out of the training a TEACHER, not just a yoga instructor.

Source: Google

★ 5

Back in 2012 I remember sitting in my 200 hour teacher training listening to Matt and Holly speak what was at the time a completely foreign language to me. On one hand, it was frustrating to not fully understand the depth of the teaching I was receiving but I had faith that in time I would obtain more and more of the knowledge coming through their wise words. 7 years later and I have been a part of their 500 hour and now 1000 hour Yoga Therapy training program. The Shala has been an essential part of my growth professionally and personally. Their program teaches you principles that can be applied rather than random techniques. Despite all of the other training I have received In other realms it is THIS program that continues to impact me the most. There is no way to write in words here an adequate representation of the value of what I have received. When I come to the Shala I feel the ease of living with the natural rhythms of the world around me. Rising with the sun, enjoying the sites, sounds and smells while enjoying coffee and companionship with my colleagues, delicious breakfast influenced by the wisdom of Ayurveda and sourced from the farm and community, learning about yoga and how to teach but above all learning about self and how to love. In this place I find meaning.

Source: Google

★ 5

A rare and beautiful place.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Holly and Matt are genuine, caring people that provide a wonderfully unique service at the Shala. Truly authentic and one of a kind, highly recommended.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

The teacher training program at Circle Yoga Shala is one of the most comprehensive and high quality yoga training programs offered anywhere in the region. Matt and Holly not only have decades of experience teaching yoga and training teachers, but also live the teachings through the sustained, ongoing practice in their own lives. They teach what you need to know to teach yoga and so much more - the meditative and spiritual aspects of yoga and inquiry are the most impactful elements of studying with them. Kristen, Founder, Ashtanga Yoga Fayetteville

Source: Google

★ 5

I was a student at the month long residential 200HR teacher training in June 2015. It was an extremely valuable and fruitful way to spend my time and money. The shala is such a healing space; Matt & Holly are stunningly wise and helpful. The things I learned at the shala regularly enhance and simplify my life and work. I recommend getting involved with Matt & Holly's teachings in any way you can!

Source: Google

★ 5

The Shala is gorgeous and peaceful. I'm planning my 3rd trip now 😊 Matthew is an amazing cook, he and Holly are very humble and knowledgeable. I would love to spend some time visiting for an extended period just to grab more of those bits of knowledge they throw out.

Source: Google

★ 5

The Shala is home. Every time you set foot on the farm, you shoulders relax, your heart swells, and your brain expands. I've learned some of the most important things on top of this beautiful mountain, and consider Matt, Holly, Lou, and everyone else who drifts through to be some of my greatest teachers, friends, and family.

Source: Google

★ 5

One of the most beautiful places I have ever stayed and not just because of the view but more because of the people, the spirit, the passion, the food, and the love and warmth you feel as soon as you pull up on the property! I recommend it to everyone I meet!

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Circle Yoga Shala is a beautiful retreat in Northern Arkansas with expert teachers and bountiful, nutritious food. My time at the Shala is a reset for my mind and heart.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

I would definitely recommend Circle Yoga Shala to anyone looking for a loving place of yoga and unity consciousness. Matt & Holly introduced me to yoga 15 years ago and I am eternally grateful for their teaching and continued presence in the beautiful countryside of Jasper, Arkansas! What a beautiful place of peace.

Source: Google

★ 5

I am forever grateful that my journey took me to those mountains! Words can not describe the experience that the Circle Yoga Shala has to offer. Once you go, you are family. I am a new person after every module. my vessel is emptied and filled with knowledge. Matt and Holly are on par with the best teachers in the world and they will not let you be anything less. If you are reading reviews to find guidance, let this be a sign post that you are looking in the right place. "Aho Mitakuye Oyasin"

Source: Google

★ 5

Absolutely what the world needs more of. Knowledge, compassion, and community. I would give them more stars if they were available!

Source: Google

★ 5

Yoga Circle Shala was and continues to be a life altering experience. Here is a place of building good human beings. They teach yoga yet I would add that they teach us ways to be in our everyday lives that help us grow and change in a good way. What I have learned with and through Matt and Holly I have brought home into my daily living and made positive change with. They love yoga, and they love life their gifts are to help us bring the two together. I will continue to be a part of this awesome community always because once they have entered your heart they are there for life.

Source: Google

★ 5

Circle Yoga Shala is an inclusive spiritual center dedicated to teaching Yoga roots and exploring systems of healing, They hold warm and loving gatherings for women, lodges and community events. Their hearts are full of love to share. You would do yourself a favor to attend their retreats.

Source: Google

★ 5

Great place for yoga studies, inquiry, and learning about food. Matt and Holly are great teachers with a wealth of experience and knowledge. Excellent place to spend some time doing a yoga retreat or period of study. Very comfortable accommodations, great food, and even better people.

Source: Google

★ 5

A yoga school and a working sustainable farm and retreat center located in the beautiful Ozark mountains. Anyone looking to study or train within a supportive environment of authentic inquiry with sincere and knowledgeable teachers would be in heaven. The food is excellent, the location stunning and the accommodations are charming and more than comfortable. - Pamela

Source: Google