Ubud yoga house: quiet serenity among the rice fields

Okay, so have you ever done downward dog while frogs croak, birds chirp, and a stream babbles somewhere in the background?

I hadn’t either—until I stumbled into Ubud Yoga House, a tiny jungle-shrouded oasis just outside the main bustle of Ubud. It’s not your typical polished “yoga club” with wall-to-wall influencers and incense overload. Nope. This place is raw, serene, and honestly, a little bit magical.

Finding it feels like discovering a secret

If you’re up for a bit of an adventure, rent a scooter or take a stroll out to the Abangan area. You’ll pass rice paddies, dogs, locals, maybe a temple ceremony or two. It’s the kind of path that makes you whisper “wow” under your breath and forget about phone signal or time.

Locals call it “Mama Bali,” and once you’re off the beaten path, you’ll see why.

A yoga experience that feels personal

Ubud Yoga House offers a different kind of energy. There are only two shalas, but both feel like mini sanctuaries.

The first is on the upper floor of the main building, where you practice with panoramic views of lush jungle and rice terraces. I kid you not, even your tree pose feels taller up there.

The second? A bamboo pavilion just a few steps into the forest. Surrounded by nature, it feels deeply grounding. Like… earthy in the best way.

Both spaces are clean, beautifully simple, and stocked with mats and props that are actually high-quality (a rarity in touristy spots).

Meet Sheila: the woman behind the magic

What makes this place really stand out is Sheila Burch, the founder and resident teacher. Sheila has spent decades teaching yoga around the world and has finally rooted herself here, among the rice fields.

She lives on the property and brings her full presence to every class. It’s not just a studio—it’s her home, her vision, and her practice.

Her story isn’t just inspiring—it gives the place soul.

Candlelight yoga and ‘meditation in motion’

We joined two classes: the invigorating Morning Flow, and my personal favorite—the Tuesday Night Candlelight Yoga.

Imagine: soft lighting from candles, delicate flower petals on the floor, and the sounds of nature all around. The teacher (Sasha, more on her below) calls it “Meditation in Motion,” and honestly, I get it. It wasn’t about nailing the perfect pose—it was about presence. About softening. About being real.

A teacher who leads from the heart

Sasha has that rare energy—equal parts warmth, knowledge, and calm. She didn’t just lead us through stretches. She taught—layering philosophy, breathwork, and gentle cues for every level.

My favorite line of hers?

“Yoga is not a competitive sport.”

Truth.

She offered options for beginners and challenges for advanced students, all while making us feel totally at ease. No pressure, no ego—just genuine guidance.

Small classes, real connection

Classes here are intimate. Usually around 8-10 people, tops. Before each class, there’s a short intro round so the teacher knows your name, any injuries, or what you’re hoping to get out of it. That might sound small, but it changes everything.

It turns a “drop-in class” into something that feels tailored and welcoming.

Thoughtful details that make a difference

Even the little things here are intentional. They offer natural mosquito repellent when the sun goes down. After class, they hand out cold lemon water and a soft bamboo eco towel to freshen up.

And as you walk back along the rice field path? Fireflies. I’m not even kidding. Actual fireflies.

Final thoughts: a must-visit for anyone seeking soulful yoga

This wasn’t just another yoga class in Ubud. It was a deeply personal, heart-opening experience. And it’s one I’d recommend to anyone looking for authenticity over aesthetics.

Sheila and Sasha—thank you. You’ve created something really special here.

And yes, I’m already planning my return.

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