Thursday, July 29, 2010


Today's Classes


Big Stretch Yoga
10:00 AM - 11:15 AM
Instructor: Joanne Lowe




Gentle Stretch Yoga
05:45 PM - 07:00 PM
Instructor: Joanne Lowe




Big Stretch Yoga
07:15 PM - 08:30 PM
Instructor: Joanne Lowe




Retreats & Workshops


The BIG Yoga Retreat at Harmony Dawn - Summer 2010
Jul 30 to Aug 1, 2010




News


Long Weekend Closures
[posted:2010-07-28]




Summer 2010 Schedule - July & August
[posted:2010-06-06]




$575 raised for the CNIB!
[posted:2010-06-06]




Recent Features


Vawn Himmelsbach is our Yogini of the month
Yogis/Yoginis of the Month
[posted:2010-05-26]




10% off coupon
Coupons/Special Offers
[posted:2010-05-17]




Yogi is our Karma Yogi of the month!
Yogis/Yoginis of the Month
[posted:2010-02-05]




Accolades & Testimonials


Anne-Marie S.
[Posted on Friday, June 25, 2010, filed under Accolades & Testimonials]

"Just wanted to let you know how fabulous it is to get back to your wonderful Gentle Stretch Yoga Class accompanied by your soft and peaceful voice and helping me get my legs and arms untangled. You were right, I was a little sore the next day but it is a good sore knowing that I am making my body healthier. Thank you." ~ Anne-Marie S.


2010 Winter Wonderland Yoga Retreat
[Posted on Monday, March 1, 2010, filed under Accolades & Testimonials]

"Thanks to everyone for the enjoyable weekend. With the beautiful surroundings, lovely people, divine food, and of course, the big stretches, I had a wonderful time. Peace." ~ Annette Sonneveld


Shelly Rowen on 10th Anniversary
[Posted on Tuesday, December 1, 2009, filed under Accolades & Testimonials]

"Happy 10th Anniversary to you and The Big Stretch. Here's to all of your hard work and creativity that you've put into your studio - not to mention the consistently excellent teaching and quality yoga classes. May you continue to thrive." ~ Shelly Rowen


Margaret King on 10th Anniversary
[Posted on Tuesday, December 1, 2009, filed under Accolades & Testimonials]

"Congratulations! We are so fortunate that you chose our 'hood to establish The Big Stretch - your haven of calm laced with humour. Here's to another 10 years - then 20...." ~ Margaret King


Monika Stegmann
[Posted on Sunday, November 15, 2009, filed under Accolades & Testimonials]

"You have accomplished a lot and are an amazing role model for living your life. Kudus to you. As I say to all who ask about where I do yoga in describing you, Joanne, 'her voice exudes serenity'. Love ya." ~ Monika Stegmann


Rhonda Hanson MacNeil
[Posted on Sunday, September 6, 2009, filed under Accolades & Testimonials]

"I love your class for a million reasons. The flow is natural and makes sense to my body. I love the music, candles and lighting. But most of all - you and your kindness and lovely sense of humour." ~ Rhonda Hanson MacNeil


Diana Bumstead
[Posted on Sunday, September 6, 2009, filed under Accolades & Testimonials]

"I enjoyed the retreat. The people were so nice and the yoga, chakra workshop, reflexology, satsang and hand drumming were amazing. Thanks so much for the opportunity." ~ Diana Bumstead


Margaret Jamieson
[Posted on Sunday, September 6, 2009, filed under Accolades & Testimonials]

"I wanted to tell you that for several hours after my yoga class last night I felt euphoric. There is no other word for it - a very smooth, happy state of calmness. Thank you!" ~ Margaret Jamieson


Fay Kokolakis, Summer Student Program Coordinator, CNIB - vision health.vision hope.
[Posted on Friday, September 4, 2009, filed under Accolades & Testimonials]

"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.


Sandy Harris
[Posted on Wednesday, September 2, 2009, filed under Accolades & Testimonials]

"Your thoughtfulness does not go unnoticed as I rush in and out of your studio. I hope that I am generous enough to express my gratitude each time. This note will serve to reconfirm how much you give to me and how much I appreciate your teaching. With many thanks." ~ Sandy Harris


Katie Northcott
[Posted on Wednesday, September 2, 2009, filed under Accolades & Testimonials]

"Thank you for three years of yoga in the beautiful space you've created. I appreciate your relaxed, calm nature, and always your sense of humour!" ~ Katie Northcott


Scott Colby
[Posted on Wednesday, September 2, 2009, filed under Accolades & Testimonials]

"Slowly I'm reaching for my toes. Thanks for the inspiration!" ~ Scott Colby


Sarah & Stephanie, Weekend to End Breast Cancer
[Posted on Wednesday, September 2, 2009, filed under Accolades & Testimonials]

"Many thanks for the 'Peace' yoga t-shirts. We wore them with pride on the second day of our journey during the Weekend to End Breast Cancer." ~ Stephanie and Sarah


Joanne Kurt
[Posted on Wednesday, September 2, 2009, filed under Accolades & Testimonials]

"Thank you for being such a wonderful instructor. My life is better because of your yoga and that is truly a priceless gift to give." ~ Joanne Kurt


Dee Tung, Winter Sadhana
[Posted on Wednesday, September 2, 2009, filed under Accolades & Testimonials]

"Thank you for a wonderful winter journey." ~ Dee Tung


Margaret King
[Posted on Wednesday, September 2, 2009, filed under Accolades & Testimonials]

"You and your studio have become part of the fabric of my life - and now, my sister's as well. I hope we will both be able to continue coming for many more years - weekly classes and sadhanas - although you may eventually have to invest in some sort of chair lift! Your constant smile, positive attitude and charm make your classes a special place to be." ~ Margaret King


Lisa Spinks, Evergreen - The Brick Works
[Posted on Wednesday, September 2, 2009, filed under Accolades & Testimonials]

"Your energy brings the Brick Works to life and I appreciate your positive vibe along with the fun I have working with you." ~ Lisa Spinks, Evergreen - The Brick Works


Judy McMartin
[Posted on Wednesday, September 2, 2009, filed under Accolades & Testimonials]

"Thank you for helping me take time to breathe." ~ Judy McMartin


Jennifer Hart Weed
[Posted on Wednesday, September 2, 2009, filed under Accolades & Testimonials]

"Thank you for your studio, for your classes and all that you do. I've been blessed to be your student." ~ Jennifer Hart Weed


Precious Gems Project
[Posted on Wednesday, September 2, 2009, filed under Accolades & Testimonials]

"Thank you for investing in a child's future". ~ Precious Gems Project


Claire Edmonds
[Posted on Wednesday, September 2, 2009, filed under Accolades & Testimonials]

"Thanks for all that you and yoga have given to me. It is clearest to me in balance postures - the groundedness, the heart lifted, the point of focus, the emptying of the mind." ~ Claire Edmonds


Natasa Hatsios, Harlequin Enterprises Ltd.
[Posted on Wednesday, September 2, 2009, filed under Accolades & Testimonials]

"You are an inspiration to us all and a beautiful treat each and every week. Thank you so much for enriching my life each week - you're such a blessing!" ~ Natasa Hatsios, Harlequin Enterprises, Corporate Yoga Program


Dawn
[Posted on Wednesday, September 2, 2009, filed under Accolades & Testimonials]

"Thank you for instructing the intro yoga class at our BBQ. Our friends had a fabulous time and the sequence that you lead gave everyone an excellent taste of yoga. Ross and I especially appreciated that you took the time to answer questions following the session. It added a special touch." ~ Dawn


Margaret King
[Posted on Wednesday, September 2, 2009, filed under Accolades & Testimonials]

"Thank you for your kind remembrance of my 70th birthday. Also for my two favourite poses yesterday. You and your programs will hopefully enable me to age in a fit, flexible manner." ~ Margaret King


Lorraine Clemes
[Posted on Monday, August 31, 2009, filed under Accolades & Testimonials]

"I've been doing body work of different types over the last decade or so and understand and respect the process and LOVE how you've expressed it. I'm looking forward to incorporating this into my life and appreciate the respectful, gentle offering of your gifts.  Namaste." ~ Lorraine Clemes


Dianne
[Posted on Wednesday, August 26, 2009, filed under Accolades & Testimonials]

"I'm a terrible sleeper, but last night I had the best night's sleep ever. Normally I wake up a few times and always at 4:30 a.m. Needless to say, I never feel rested when I finally get out of bed. This morning I woke up at 7:15 a.m. and felt energized. I look forward to my next class. Thanks again." ~ Dianne


Lee Zardo, Janssen Ortho
[Posted on Wednesday, August 26, 2009, filed under Accolades & Testimonials]

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


Margaret King
[Posted on Wednesday, August 26, 2009, filed under Accolades & Testimonials]

"You are CLOSED on Family Day! Oh sadness, I thought we were your family." ~ Margaret King


Yoga Tambiraja
[Posted on Wednesday, August 26, 2009, filed under Accolades & Testimonials]

"Joanne has the enviable knack of making yoga gentle and fun for everyone. Having practiced various styles of yoga, her experiences and expertise have allowed her to develop a unique approach to the instruction of hatha and raja yoga. Joanne lives by her motto of breathe, stretch and relax!" ~ Yogi Tambiraja


Vawn Himmelsbach
[Posted on Wednesday, August 26, 2009, filed under Accolades & Testimonials]

"One of the reasons I like going to The Big Stretch is because of Joanne herself. I've been to other yoga classes that were intimidating or pretentious, and almost made me give up on yoga. But Joanne makes yoga fun, and encourages you to go at your own pace -- I've been going for 10 years now. And The Big Stretch studio is the perfect setting for a yoga class -- you feel relaxed the second you walk in the door." ~ Vawn Himmelsbach


Kerri McCutcheon
[Posted on Wednesday, August 26, 2009, filed under Accolades & Testimonials]

"I attended midnight yoga on New Year's Eve and wanted to thank you for such a beautiful, peaceful way to glide into the New Year!" ~ Kerri McCutcheon


Aileen Hill
[Posted on Wednesday, August 26, 2009, filed under Accolades & Testimonials]

"Thank you so much for opening your studio and donating your time to the Precious Gems Project fundraiser. Your kindness touches me every time I am in your presence." ~ Aileen Hill


Della Croteau
[Posted on Wednesday, August 19, 2009, filed under Accolades & Testimonials]

"My butt is sore. My knees are weak. My hips are hurting. My energy is renewed. My spirit is soaring! Thank you for a wonderful retreat weekend." ~ Della Croteau


Richard Burrows
[Posted on Sunday, August 16, 2009, filed under Accolades & Testimonials]

"I did want you to know how enjoyable and challenging each lesson is for me. Rarely have I seen anyone as observant as you. Bent, twisted and stretched." ~ Richard Burrows


Daneal Charney
[Posted on Sunday, August 16, 2009, filed under Accolades & Testimonials]

"As usual your zany and go-with-the-flow style creates an edible experience for all." ~ Daneal Charney


Big Stretch Reviewed in Toronto Life....
[Posted on Saturday, August 15, 2009, filed under Accolades & Testimonials]

"Clean and serene, this spacious, south-facing studio boasts large windows and gauzy white curtains. The instruction, from director Joanne Lowe, is equally soothing.

Drawing on the influence of several philosophies, she developed her own unique approach to teaching. Classes follow vinyasa or flowing style, beginning with pranayama (rhythmic breathing) and ending in savasana (final relaxation). Gentle Stretch classes are suitable for beginners, pregnant women and seniors.

Big Stretch classes integrate breathing with classic hatha sitting, standing, bending and twisting postures. Sports classes combine sports stretches with disciplines as diverse as hatha yoga, martial arts and Pilates." ~ Toronto Life Magazine.

Web Link: Toronto Life Magazine


Cuddily Carol
[Posted on Saturday, August 15, 2009, filed under Accolades & Testimonials]

"Thank you Joanne for another fabulous and life changing weekend! I always leave these retreats renewed and inspired." ~ Cuddily Carol


Denise Vince
[Posted on Saturday, August 15, 2009, filed under Accolades & Testimonials]

"Harmony Dawn Retreat is very spiritual and full of love and happiness. I loved my visit and getting to know all here. Thank you for the great food and home." ~ Denise Vince (Newmarket)


Arlene Roth
[Posted on Saturday, August 15, 2009, filed under Accolades & Testimonials]

"Thank you for opening a beautiful new window for me. I appreciate your prep for our retreat weekend and the easy flow of the days." ~ Arlene Roth


Marilyn
[Posted on Saturday, August 15, 2009, filed under Accolades & Testimonials]

"Joanne, this has been a great yoga retreat weekend. I enjoyed myself way more than I thought I would. You have a lovely, calming voice and disposition - I loved stretching so much! It was a fun group too. Look forward to coming to The Big Stretch when I am in Toronto." ~ Marilyn


L'il Jo
[Posted on Saturday, August 15, 2009, filed under Accolades & Testimonials]

"Hey Big Jo! Just a word of thanks for yet another amazing yoga retreat weekend! I am so grateful that you have become part of my life. Namaste." ~ L'il Jo


Sasha Furlani
[Posted on Saturday, August 15, 2009, filed under Accolades & Testimonials]

"I really enjoyed your class, and found your instruction to be effective and inspiring. It was my first ever yoga class and it has sowed the seed for me to continue with it. Thanks for having me in your class and inspiring me to continue with yoga. I look forward to the variety of physical and spiritual benefits it will bring me." ~ Sasha Furlani


Gordie Kita
[Posted on Saturday, August 15, 2009, filed under Accolades & Testimonials]

"My downward-facing dog wags serious tail." ~ Gordie Kita


Ian Henderson
[Posted on Monday, August 10, 2009, filed under Accolades & Testimonials]

"I credit your yoga classes for helping me achieve better results in my running and duathlon races. After one year at The Big Stretch, I am much more aware of my breathing and have increased my flexibility. Both have contributed to faster race times." ~ Ian Henderson


Kate Arthur
[Posted on Monday, August 10, 2009, filed under Accolades & Testimonials]

"You have no idea how much I appreciate your response to social justice issues. I am so proud of your efforts at community building when confronted with suffering and support for people who are left behind. Namaste." ~ Kate Arthur


Paula Ethier
[Posted on Saturday, July 18, 2009, filed under Accolades & Testimonials]

"Love, love, love the yoga - as much as the food. You take so much time and thought into everything you prepare for us. You have the ability to get me off my a## and outside where I should be. Keep on Joanne, you are the best of the best!" ~ Paula Ethier


Ascent Magazine
[Posted on Sunday, June 21, 2009, filed under Accolades & Testimonials]

"More than just a way to alleviate the symptoms of stress, Joanne is teaching a way to improve work habits and employee satisfaction. She knows the language and the nature of office stress, but most of all she knows how to relax." ~ Ascent Magazine


Lori Tymchyk
[Posted on Sunday, June 21, 2009, filed under Accolades & Testimonials]

"Thank you so much for a wonderful Big Retreat. Donna, Joyce, Sheila and I enjoyed our time in the lovely loft and found the weekend to be fun, relaxing and inspirational. Harmony Dawn is a special place and you made the experience exceptional." ~ Lori Tymchyk


Millie Kwan
[Posted on Sunday, June 21, 2009, filed under Accolades & Testimonials]

"Joanne, thank you for a wonderful weekend. I am refreshed in mind, body and spirit. This is my first retreat ever and certainly will not be the last. Harmony Dawn is beautiful and the food is amazing. I look forward to future retreats." ~ Millie Kwan


Dianne Perkins
[Posted on Sunday, June 21, 2009, filed under Accolades & Testimonials]

"Joanne, thanks for leading us through a relaxing and rejuvenating weekend retreat! As always, you created a warm, fun and interesting environment and introduced me to new ideas and approaches to life. My body, mind and spirit thank you! Namaste" ~ Dianne Perkins


Brenda Junkin
[Posted on Sunday, June 21, 2009, filed under Accolades & Testimonials]

"Another fabulous retreat! I'm always amazed as each one is more enjoyable than the last." ~ Brenda Junkin


Nikki Zinman
[Posted on Sunday, June 21, 2009, filed under Accolades & Testimonials]

"Om... thanks to Joanne for making this such a fabulous weekend. The positive energy you evade is contagious - I feel relaxed, rejuvenated and re-energized. Looking forward to taking this 'positive energy' back to Toronto." ~ Nikki Zinman


Yvonne Oral
[Posted on Sunday, June 21, 2009, filed under Accolades & Testimonials]

"Thank you Joanne for being the medium through which we were joined together on this wonderful weekend. Your love and care of others is beautiful to see and even lovelier to feel." ~ Yvonne Oral


Betty Holmes
[Posted on Sunday, June 21, 2009, filed under Accolades & Testimonials]

"As a person who holds fast, this has been a great chance to let go. Thanks for a wonderful experience and a direction for further changes and development." ~ Betty Holmes


Shelly Rowen
[Posted on Sunday, June 21, 2009, filed under Accolades & Testimonials]

"Trees, meadow, wind, fire, moon, yoga! Great food. This place rocks! Namaste." ~ Shelly Rowen


Toronto Life
[Posted on Sunday, June 21, 2009, filed under Accolades & Testimonials]

"Gauzy white curtains covering large open windows form an undulating wall on the south side of this spacious studio. Students are drawn here by the serenity of the space, as well as the soothing encouragement of director Joanne Lowe." ~ Toronto Life Magazine


Ascent Magazine
[Posted on Sunday, June 21, 2009, filed under Accolades & Testimonials]

"Joanne has drawn upon influences from several different teaching philosophies and styles to develop her own unique approach to the instruction of hatha and raja yoga. Her philosophy is that yoga is for everyone, everywhere, whether they be male, female, young, old, in the office, at home or in the yoga studio." ~ Ascent Magazine


North Toronto Post
[Posted on Sunday, June 21, 2009, filed under Accolades & Testimonials]

"Stretching Success to Another Year in Leaside." ~ North Toronto Post


Sweetspot.ca
[Posted on Sunday, June 21, 2009, filed under Accolades & Testimonials]

"The fabulous Big Stretch Yoga Centre... blessed, sweet relaxation." ~ Sweetspot.ca


Toronto Life
[Posted on Sunday, June 21, 2009, filed under Accolades & Testimonials]

"One of Toronto's best places to do yoga." ~ Toronto Fashion Magazine


Rose Roberts
[Posted on Sunday, June 21, 2009, filed under Accolades & Testimonials]

"I want to tell you how much I admire and appreciate the beauty and respect you bring to the classes you teach - undoubtedly an extension of how you live your life." ~ Rose Roberts


Andrew Irwin
[Posted on Sunday, June 21, 2009, filed under Accolades & Testimonials]

"As a yoga rookie, I am totally amazed at how much better (physically and mentally) I feel since taking your classes. No more back, leg or neck pain! The breathing techniques have helped me relax. The classes are fun, the teachers are great - not to mention scheduled at times that can accommodate everyone. I recommend your classes to everyone." ~ Andrew Irwin