Yogi Shaji – Founder of Sha Yoga Varkala
Yogi Shaji, the founder of Sha Yoga Varkala has been teaching yoga for a long time, more than 18 years. He started learning yoga when he was 25 years old. His teacher, Swami Kaivalyananda Saraswathi taught him about the side of yoga.
For Yogi Shaji yoga is not about the physical part. Yoga is a way to learn about yourself to be disciplined to change from inside and to feel a connection to something. Yogi Shaji has studied yoga in a way, practiced it himself and taught it to others for many years. This has helped him develop a way of teaching that combines the wisdom of yoga with advice that is useful for people today. Yogi Shaji wants his students to really understand yoga and how it can help them in their lives.
- For some students, he is a Yoga Teacher
- For others, he is a Guide and Mentor
- Many students value him as a supportive friend
- And for those seeking deeper knowledge, he is a spiritual teacher
His purpose is to help students look beyond physical postures and discover the deeper dimensions of yoga through practice, meditation, breathwork, and self-awareness.
“Yoga is not only about the body; it is a journey towards greater awareness, inner peace, and connection with the self.” — Yogi Shaji
A Journey of Learning, Practice & Service
Authentic Yoga School in Varkala, Kerala
The story of Yogi Shaji, Founder of Sha Yoga Varkala, is a journey shaped by traditional guidance, dedicated practice, formal education, international teaching experience, and a continued commitment to sharing yoga.
His work at Sha Yoga reflects a simple philosophy: learn yoga, practice yoga, live yoga, and share its wisdom with others. Today, he welcomes students from around the world to Varkala, Kerala, where they can explore yoga not only as a physical discipline but as a deeper journey toward awareness, balance, inner peace, and self-discovery.
The Journey of Yogi Shaji
Where His Journey Began
Yogi Shaji's journey into yoga began at the age of 25 when he came under the guidance of Swami Kaivalyananda Saraswathi. This early connection with his Guru introduced him to traditional yoga and its deeper spiritual foundations.
Over the years, he continued learning through dedicated personal practice, traditional teachings, and direct experience. His approach to yoga has been shaped not only by formal education but also by years of working closely with students from different backgrounds and cultures.
Deepening His Yogic Education
Yogi Shaji later continued his studies at the International Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Ashram, where he deepened his spiritual practice and completed his International Yoga Alliance certification in March 2008.
His academic journey continued with a Yoga Diploma through Kerala University in 2010, followed by a Bachelor's degree in Yoga through Chennai Sports and Physical Education University.
Professional Teaching Experience
For nearly nine years, Yogi Shaji worked with the Somatheeram Ayurveda Group, gaining extensive practical experience in yoga teaching and working with students from around the world. This experience helped him develop a deeper understanding of how yoga can be approached by people from different cultures, backgrounds, and levels of experience.
His areas of teaching include:
- Traditional Hatha Yoga
- Pranayama
- Meditation
- Mantra Chanting
- Yoga Nidra
- Restorative Yoga
- Spiritual Yoga Practices
He has also travelled to Europe three times to conduct international yoga workshops, sharing his knowledge and experience with students outside India.
His Teaching Philosophy
Yogi Shaji thinks that people should really do yoga, not read about it. He teaches his students to find a balance between the poses, breathing, meditation, the ideas behind yoga and their daily life.
He does not just want people to be flexible or strong Yogi Shaji wants his students to think about what yoga's really all about and how the old ways of doing yoga can help them change their lives for the better. Yogi Shaji keeps sharing what he learned from his teachers through Sha Yoga and he helps new students find their own way with yoga so they can learn and grow with Yogi Shaji and yoga.
Yogi Shaji’s Areas of Expertise
With more than 18 years of practice and teaching experience, Yogi Shaji specializes in:
- Traditional Hatha Yoga: Building a strong foundation through classical postures, alignment, awareness, and mindful practice.
- Pranayama: Exploring traditional breathing practices to develop breath awareness, concentration, and calmness.
- Meditation: Guiding students toward greater inner awareness through traditional meditation techniques.
- Mantra Chanting: Introducing students to the traditional practice of sacred sound and mantra recitation.
- Yoga Nidra: Teaching deep relaxation and guided awareness practices.
- Restorative Yoga: Helping students develop relaxation, comfort, and mindful awareness through gentle practices.
Yoga Teachers - SHA Yoga Kerala
SHA Yoga in Kerala offers authentic yoga teacher training with a balanced approach to traditional practices and modern teaching methods. With experienced instructors, personalized guidance, and a peaceful learning environment, students can deepen their practice, build confidence, and develop the skills needed to become compassionate and knowledgeable yoga teachers.
Yogi Sha Ji
School Founder
Krishna Ji
Ashtanga Vinyasa
Kush Ji
Hatha Alignment
Mohan Ji
Meditation
Anoop Ji
Pulse Diagnosis
Satheesh Ji
Ayurvedic Massage
Gopika Ji
Abhyanga Massage
Sanjay Ji
Advanced Asanas
Students Reviews and Memories With Us
Our students leave SHA Yoga with more than just yoga knowledge—they take home meaningful memories, lasting friendships, and a deeper connection with themselves.
From inspiring classes to peaceful moments by the beach, every experience becomes a special part of their yoga journey in Kerala.
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SHA Yoga Varkala gave me a beautiful 100 Hour TTC experience. The teachers were supportive, knowledgeable, and patient. I learned deeply about yoga, breath, meditation, and myself, leaving every day feeling peaceful, confident, and inspired.
Sophie
The 200 Hour Yoga TTC at SHA Yoga Varkala exceeded my expectations. The classes were clear and practical, while the teachers offered personal guidance. I gained confidence, discipline, understanding, and a deeper connection with yoga practice.
Emma
My 300 Hour Yoga TTC journey at SHA Yoga Varkala was transformative. The advanced practices, philosophy, and teaching guidance challenged me beautifully. I grew stronger, more mindful, and confident, both personally and professionally every single day.
Isabella
The 500 Hour Yoga TTC was an incredible journey of learning and self discovery. SHA Yoga Varkala offered inspiring teachers, meaningful practices, and genuine support. I finished feeling grounded, empowered, knowledgeable, and ready to teach well.
Olivia
Yin Yoga TTC at SHA Yoga Varkala was deeply relaxing and insightful. The slow practices, anatomy, mindfulness, and emotional release helped me soften tension and reconnect with myself. I left feeling lighter, calmer, and renewed inside.
Clara
My yoga retreat in Kerala was peaceful, restorative, and beautifully guided. The combination of yoga, Ayurveda, Panchakarma, and mantra practices helped me release stress, slow down, and reconnect with my body, mind, and inner calm.
Laura
