Finding Sanctuary in Mentone: The Soulful Journey of Soul Seed Yoga

Soul Seed Yoga stands as a beacon of tranquillity and transformation amid the bustle of everyday life. This boutique studio, founded with a deep commitment to nurturing body, mind, and spirit, has blossomed into a cherished community hub for yogis of all levels. Whether you’re a seasoned practitioner seeking to deepen your practice or a complete novice dipping your toes into the ancient art of yoga, Soul Seed offers a welcoming embrace that encourages exploration, connection, and personal growth.

The Founding Vision: Maxine Yeates’ Path to Soul Seed

At the helm of this serene sanctuary is Maxine Yeates, a passionate yogini whose journey weaves together threads of sociology, mental health advocacy, and profound yogic wisdom. With a BA (Hons) in Sociology from the University of Nottingham and a Post-Graduate Diploma in Disability Management and Vocational Rehabilitation from City University London, Maxine’s early career spanned over 14 years in mental health support. It was during this time that she witnessed firsthand the transformative power of holistic wellbeing practices, inspiring her to pivot towards yoga as a tool for proactive mental and emotional health.

Maxine’s own immersion in yoga began with rigorous trainings under renowned teachers in Australia and India, earning her the prestigious ERYT 500 designation and YACEP status. Drawing from her experiences, she established Soul Seed Yoga in Mentone to create a space that not only teaches postures but also instils yoga philosophy and mindfulness. “Yoga is an ancient practice and a complete philosophy which guides us to live a healthy and happy life with meaning and connection,” Maxine shares in one of her workshops. Since its inception, the studio has weathered challenges, including the trials of lockdowns and rising living costs, emerging stronger as a testament to resilient community spirit.

A Diverse Palette of Classes: From Flow to Stillness

Soul Seed Yoga’s timetable is a thoughtfully curated symphony of movement and repose, catering to diverse needs and schedules. Core offerings include dynamic Vinyasa flows for building strength and heat, soothing Slow Flow sessions for mindful transitions, and restorative Yin practices that invite deep release and introspection. Beginners can ease in with gentle introductions, while those craving ultimate relaxation might opt for restorative classes or immersive sound healing experiences, where the vibrations of gongs and bowls harmonise with breath.

Classes run throughout the week, with highlights such as evening Vinyasa led by Maxine Yeates from 6:15 to 7:15 PM, followed by Yin until 8:30 PM. For corporate warriors, the studio extends its reach through onsite and online wellness programmes, blending yoga with stress management to foster balanced professional lives.

Pricing is accessible and flexible, featuring an enticing introductory offer of 3 Weeks Unlimited Yoga to immerse newcomers fully. Passes and memberships are available via the studio’s user-friendly app, ensuring seamless booking and management—perfect for the modern yogi on the go. Detailed options, including class packs and unlimited access, can be explored on the website.

The Guiding Lights: A Team of Inspired Teachers

What truly elevates Soul Seed is its constellation of dedicated teachers, each bringing unique flavours to the practice. Maxine, as founder, specialises in Vinyasa, Hatha, Yin, Ashtanga, meditation, pranayama, and sound mastery, with a style that balances technical precision and philosophical depth.

Rachel Foster (ERYT 500, RPYT) infuses joy into prenatal and mums-and-bubs classes, her nurturing flows supporting women through life’s sacred transitions as a qualified doula. Meital Haimovitz, inspired by her Indian odyssey since 2004, crafts enlivening sessions that spark self-awareness. Lidija Mustica, a naturopath and YTT graduate from Soul Seed, shares teachings rooted in personal healing from fertility challenges.

Maria Papadontas, blending social work and trauma therapy, emphasises nervous system regulation in her Vinyasa, Hatha, restorative, and Yin offerings. Carla Lewinsmith draws from two decades of dance and meditation to guide explorations of the inner landscape, while Nikki Cocker—bilingual in English and Japanese—highlights yoga’s role in recovery and focus. Sourav Jena channels Himalayan wisdom in compassionate Ashtanga and Vinyasa, and philosophy maestro Jagjeet Singh (MSc Yoga Science, ERYT 500) unpacks ancient texts like the Bhagavad Gita with Himalayan authenticity.

This eclectic faculty ensures every class feels personal and profound, fostering a sense of belonging.

Beyond the Mat: Retreats, Training, and Community Spirit

Soul Seed extends its nurturing ethos far beyond Mentone’s shores with immersive retreats that blend yoga, culture, and rejuvenation. Upcoming escapes include a Japanese Wintertime Retreat in Hepburn Springs (17-19 August 2025), a Diwali-celebrating sojourn in Rishikesh, India (18-24 October 2025), and a pampering Bali adventure in 2026. These journeys promise not just asanas but soul-enriching experiences amid stunning landscapes.

For aspiring teachers, the studio’s 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training in 2026—enriched by weekly philosophy sessions with Jaggi Singh—offers a rigorous yet supportive path to certification. A 50-hour Yin Teacher Training kicks off in April 2025, perfect for specialising in restorative practices.

Community pulses at the heart of Soul Seed, with workshops like Ayurveda Nutrition for Wellness and events such as Goddess Circles, fostering deeper connections. Members rave about the “warm, welcoming and thriving community,” crediting Maxine’s vision for its enduring appeal.

Join the Journey: Contact and Getting Started

Ready to plant your own soul seed? Soul Seed Yoga awaits at 137B Mentone Parade, Mentone, VIC 3194, Australia. Reach out via phone at 0447 933 059 or email hello@soulseedyoga.com.au. Follow their vibrant feed on Instagram (@soulseedyoga) or Facebook for updates, and download the app for effortless bookings.

Visit www.soulseedyoga.com.au to secure your spot—your path to inner harmony begins with a single breath.