About The Big Stretch

strengthen your body, nurture your soul and lift your spirit

A small, intimate yoga centre that opened its doors in 1999, The Big Stretch is a warm, welcoming space that offers hatha yoga classes to all age groups. With candles and music, and a small group of instructors, classes are tailored to the dynamics of the group attending. Instructors focus on each student and his or her needs, challenges or injuries. The Big Stretch also offers corporate yoga, workshops and yoga retreats.

Hatha yoga is a gentle, yet effective yoga practice that enhances your health and well-being. The simple breathing, stretching and muscle relaxation techniques relieve various symptoms of stress, including tension headaches, fatigue, anxiety,
back-pain, depression and insomnia.

In our classes, we slow down from our hectic schedules, allowing the breath to flow through the postures. Create balance by uniting opposites - effort and grace, stability and fluidity, strength and softness. Rather than just exercising, we can begin to connect the breath with body and mind, directing our attention inward.

Mats, blankets, bolsters, blocks, straps, zafus and eye pillows are provided for your support, comfort and convenience. Inspiring music and candles, warm, earthy hardwood floors, large windows and soothing blue walls create a gentle and relaxing atmosphere.

"Congratulations Joanne. You have done an outstanding job and it's been great to have you here for our employees." ~ Lee Zardo, Janssen Ortho

"What can I say other than a heartfelt thank you for all you've shared with our people. You are truly an exceptional person and we are all better off having been led by you." ~ Lee Zardo , Manager, ENERJI Centre, Janssen Inc.

"Thank you again for contributing your time and expertise to the College and University Preparation Program by providing the CUPP students with a morning of relaxation. The hour of yoga you provided allowed the students to become familiar with their inner self. The relief felt in the session will help remind students of the importance of taking time to breathe. Your yoga session gave students that had never tried yoga before the great experience. Myself and each student walked away with the knowledge and feeling of being free of tension and stress." ~ Fay Kokolakis, Summer Student Program Coordinator, CNIB - vision health. vision hope.