Q & A with Malika Shay - a look at yoga in our community

October 19, 3:22 PMTampa Yoga ExaminerDanielle Hope Hier

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                   There are forces of nature to be reckoned with, some much more pleasant than others...         

In my weekly spotlght on yoga and healing arts within the community, I had the opportunity to interview the positive whirlwind that is Malika Shay: trance dancer, yoga teacher and owner of Yogini to Go. 

Having trained at the Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Academy, the Yoga Insitute, and the Physical Mind Institute with some of yoga's finest world-reknowned teachers and healers, Malika has created her own path of light in helping others achieve a healthy body, calm mind and balanced spirit.

I caught up with Malika (or maybe she slowed down for me?) in between her teaching, festival dancing and community outreach efforts, so that she could tell us more about her practice.

Q: What types of yoga and dance to you teach?

A: Many styles of yoga, such as classical Sivananda, Hatha, and Vinyasa.  Gentle and Restorative, Kundalini, and Aqua Yoga in warm therapy pools. I also teach Pilates and Yogalates [a combination of Pilates and Yoga].

Dance is a passion of mine, and I enjoy teaching World Dance such as African, Latin, Eastern-Influenced movements, and a host of sacred trance dance ceremonies. I teach kick boxing as well, for those that seek a more structured fitness- oriented approach.

Q: Where is your studio located?

A: Yogini to Go: I am mobile, offering transformational services in homes, yoga studios, wellness centers, corporations, rehabilitative centers, public gyms, racquetball clubs, private health clubs, and in nature.

Q: In what ways have your classes impacted your students?

A: Ive seen and heard many inner transformations occur.

Consistent practice digs feelings and thoughts up that we tend to bury deep near the roots of our Self. Becoming more aware of how our body moves in space, the relationship between the breath and movement, the grace and humility that is acquired over time, the receptivity to our environment, and the profound lessons of learning to let go, have all [positively] impacted our receptivity.

Q: How has yoga and dance transformed you?

A: My life is my work and my work is my play!

Teaching has enhanced my life into beautiful art.  It's the art of designing my life where I am growing on all levels. Every chance I have to share this Inspiration, is a opportunity for me to learn many things and refine my self. The students are my teachers, and the creative force flowing through me is my guide. 

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 For more information on Malika Shay, visit: www.devadance.com or phone 941-806-7301.