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.

"Happy 23rd Anniversary! From the studio on Bayview Avenue, to zoom classes in BC, you've helped me recover from back surgery, regain flexibility and strength and learn to value the Exhale! Words can't express my gratitude." ~ Marlane A.

"Yoga is an integral part of my life keeping me centred, calm, and appreciative of the simple things in life. Healing poses stretch the mind and body, not to mention my posture has improved greatly along with my flexibility, which in turn has helped some medical issues. I'm blessed having Joanne in my life as she shares her gift with me and others." ~ Helen Younder

"You are the perfect teacher. I love the "breathe" reminders and I love the options for various poses. I always find an option that I can do and sometimes I will even try the harder ones.

I will admit sometimes I laugh at the options and poses you suggest LOL. You are very bendy and I can never get myself into the pretzel you make yourself into.

But, you can still be my role model even if I can never imitate you. Hugs." - CATHERINE N.