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.

"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.

"I'm new to the Leaside neighbourhood and was looking for a great yoga studio. I'm so happy that I've found The Big Stretch Yoga Centre! I definitely feel at home here not only in Leaside, but in your warm, welcoming and inspiring yoga studio." ~ Jennifer B.

"This was the BEST class ever!!! My neck & upper back feel so good! Cheers!" ~ Margaret