My journey at Yogatown began in my early 40's after recovering from a shoulder injury. I found healing, peace, clarity, and best of all... a new version of myself! My yoga journey is just beginning... I can't wait to see where it takes me.  I truly love the community I'm surrounded with everytime I walk through the studio doors. When I'm not at Yogatown you will find me working with primary aged students with various exceptionalities, or at the rink cheering on my own children playing hockey!

Movement has always been an essential aspect in my life whether it be running, strength training or hiking. But I recently found myself trying yoga for the very first time… and now there isn’t a week that goes by that I am not in the yoga room. Yoga has brought me an immense amount of balance into my life, not only does it challenge me physically but also mentally. It’s crazy that I went all these years not knowing how to breathe properly! When I am not in the studio, I am working as a Dental Hygienist providing oral care and education to patients. I also love going for walks with my golden retriever, Nevi and spending time with friends and family. I absolutely love seeing all your beautiful faces around the studio and chatting all things yoga!

It took me a long time to step on my mat, and I'm glad I did and continue to do so each day. What began as a plan to remain mobile while recovering from injury sparked a curiosity to keep listening, learning, and trying things that were never on my personal bingo card. When not at Yogatown, I enjoy scary movies, strawberry rhubarb pie, and cozy mysteries.

I found my inner peace and continued wellness after my first hot yoga class. Instantly in love with the heat, movement, detachment of ego, self love, strength, balance and letting go, I was at one with myself. After many years in a high-pressure software sales career, it was time to hang it up and live the life that was meant for me. I discovered the importance of daily meditation, journaling, and yoga and after obtaining my YTT in April 2024, I found a new joy in bringing what I have learned to individuals who seek the same wellness. Life is not easy and it’s not always predictable, but if you have an outlet, which for me is family, friends, meditation, yoga and reiki, the Universe will always guide and point you in the right direction. The Universe will do the same for you, believe….trust.

I fell in love with Pilates after doing my very first class. I started doing it from home and found myself jumping out of bed in the morning excited to get to my mat. It became a daily practice in my life that healed my relationship with exercise because it showed me that low-impact movement can make you feel strong while being gentle on the body. Once I had this discovery, I knew I had to share my love of this sport with every one. In my classes, you can expect a fitness-focused burn with high vibes and plenty of fun music. If I'm not doing Pilates, you can find me hanging with my dog, walking my dog, or talking about my dog.

I began my yoga practice in 2015 as a means to ground myself and cope with the anxiety of school, life and the chaotic world around us. I believe there is much work to be done to save our planet, but before we can create change outside of ourselves, we first must claim and integrate our inner world. Yoga has guided me through many phases of life and is far more than just a physical practice; it is a means of witnessing ourselves. Pilates has been a complete game changer for me, and has helped me recover from injuries, build confidence and understand the body with scientific precision. I believe that functional movement whether in a pilates or yoga class is a powerful tool for us to connect with ourselves, and therefore be ready to connect to others.  Yogatown is a vibrant and active community full of bright and welcoming souls. Since I first stepped into the studio the community has treated me like I have been teaching here for...

I never had the intention of becoming a yoga teacher. I embarked on my first YTT because I wanted to deepen my personal practice and understand the philosophy behind the practice that had so much impact on my life beyond Asana. But yoga took me on an unexpected journey that helped me accept myself as I am, and guided me into the role I have today as a yoga teacher and confidence coach. My teachings are rooted in yoga’s ancient wisdom and focus heavily on taking what you learn on the mat, off. I'm an avid reader (romantasy & memoir being top choices), a writer (a contributor to Yoga Journal!), and a former full-time travel blogger. I'm the founder of the travel & yoga website, Taylor’s Tracks.

Yoga has been a source of joy, inspiration, triumph, comfort, and compassion that has seen me through some of my lightest and darkest days. Sometimes the hardest part is making the choice to step on the mat. But when we do, it is almost guaranteed that we will come away with a little bit more space in the body and the mind. What more could we ask for? My favourite part about the yoga practice is that it is never the same. It meets us where we are, mentally and physically, and asks of us only what we are willing to give. It understands that the hustle and bustle of life can leave us depleted of energy and needing gentle movement and nourishing breath. It also understands that we are playful and energetic beings that need to move, sweat, try, fail, and be up for the challenge. The most valuable aspect of the practice is that it encourages us to turn inwards so that we can better understand and come...

I first tried yoga as a teenager and fell in love with the practice the moment I came out of my first savasana. Since then, yoga has been a constant in my life. In my personal practice, I love experimenting with fun transitions and arm balances. As a teacher, my mission is to provide my students with a space to reconnect with their bodies, let go of their day, and most importantly, have fun. I'm passionate about creating dynamic flows and providing clear alignment cues to make the practice feel both playful and safe.

While I had been practicing yoga on and off for years, it wasn’t until I took my first SUP (stand up paddleboard) yoga class in 2012 that I knew I wanted to teach. Following that fateful class, I became a certified 200-hour yoga teacher. I have been guiding students ever since! I love encouraging people to connect with themselves - breath, body, mind, heart, soul, and present moment - and to laugh through it all.

I (she/her) found a consistent yoga practice after a hip injury that left me with daily chronic pain. My Yoga practice allowed me to better my life both physically and psychologically. The benefits I felt from Yoga then encouraged me to complete my 200 hour YTT and further my advocacy for mental health and well-being. When I started with Yogatown, I remember feeling immediately welcomed, included and judgement-free. This, along with the wonderful people I’ve had the chance to meet, is why Yogatown quickly became my happy place and a sanctuary for self-care and wellness.  

When I first fell in love with hot yoga I couldn’t believe how something so hard and challenging could leave you feeling so amazing. After travelling for a while and practicing yoga on the beach daily, I quit my job and went to Mexico to complete my 200hr ytt. This experience was magical and life changing. Not even being sure if I wanted to teach yoga, I opened my own yoga and art studio, and absolutely loved it. In 2023 we decided to close the studio and get back to travelling more.  My mission as a yoga teacher, art instructor and reiki practitioner is to use all three healing modalities to empower people, bring out their creativity, and leave them feeling strong, relaxed and refreshed. In my spare time you can find me doing anything artsy, biking, hiking, kayaking, paddle boarding, going to concerts and travelling as much as possible.

Yoga has changed my life by enhancing my physical health, my mental clarity, reducing stress, increasing my self-awareness and mindfulness. It has contributed to emotional balance during menopause. (continues to help with the hot flashes too) Yogatown has given me the ability to be part of a yoga community, leaving me with a sense of belonging and connectedness with others. Being playful on my mat, trying new poses and being able to do them inspires me to continue my yoga journey.  Being able to calm my forever racing mind, and to be in the moment has changed my life.

Martial Arts, movement, and meditation have always been an impactful part of my life.  The sense of team, community, and competition helped me look forward to each day and each challenge. However, as injuries piled up and a lack of competition, I was feeling like I was "losing". When I took my first yoga class at Yogatown (I found yoga or yoga found me?) I realized that the true competition was within myself.  With the guidance of so many incredible teachers, staff, and students, I was able to work on myself from the inside out and become a brighter light for me, my loved ones, and my community.  I encourage you to dive into your practice and open up to yourself. Off the mat, I provide holistic financial advice helping individuals achieve their financial goals. You can't do that on an empty stomach, so I always make time for Italian cooking with my family and friends.

When I first started practicing yoga, I recall being so intimidated by the acrobats around me that I was convinced it wasn’t for me. It took years of stumbling in classes and encouragement from wonderful teachers to finally find comfort in my practice. Over time, I have come to appreciate the benefits of incorporating mindful movements, self-compassion, and gentle presence into my daily life. It brings me so much joy to learn and share yoga with others now as a teacher. In our sessions, I will encourage you to connect with your breath, cultivate presence, and listen to your body. Off the mat, I'm a keen civil servant and love poetry (especially M. Angelou, W. Szymborska, Chuang Tzu), rowing, and dancing (badly, a la Paul Rudd).

I know everyone says this, but yoga has changed my life. It’s helped me with my anxieties, my sense of self and has given me purpose. I started at Yogatown just over 10 years ago and have loved every part of this studio and community. As a teacher, I feel so thankful to share this wonderful gift of breath and movement, and to support others in continuing their practice. In my spare time, I’m at my piano or catching some live music.

For me, yoga is so much more than exercise—it’s a practice of overall wellness that helps me slow down, “reset,” and find balance within my on-the-go lifestyle. Yoga has been a part of my life for over ten years, and it’s something I always find myself returning to. In April 2024, I became a certified yoga instructor, and I’m excited to share the many benefits of yoga with others while continuing to learn and grow in my own practice. Outside of yoga, I’m an elementary school teacher, where I enjoy incorporating  yoga and mindfulness into my classroom. I love spending time with my dog, Willie, being outdoors, and teaching. I am committed to promoting  wellness and self-discovery through the practice of yoga. I look forward to practicing with you!

I started practicing yoga with one of my friends and was curious about how this new exercise would be beneficial for me. Little did I know I was going to find an incredible community, an amazing vessel for stress and a greater connection with my mind and my body than I could ever imagine. Other than my passion for yoga, I am pursuing my education at UOttawa in Health Sciences and I am an aspiring physiotherapist.

Yoga and meditation constitute an organic component of my life. Both practice promote the connection with myself and ignites the healing power.  Through years of practice and life experience, growing up with a lifestyle of Traditional Chinese Medicine, my offerings naturally provide a balance of science and spirituality.  As a teacher, I would love to guide students unleash the healing power within through movements, meditation and sound healing. Outside of yoga space, I enjoy connecting with nature and wandering around the world, and of course, I have an unwavering love of food. You can find me on Instagram and Insight Timer as YoginiLei I love live music, long boarding and my dog. I try and live life to the fullest every single day.  

I started practicing several years ago now and yoga has changed my life. Yoga has taught me that it's okay to slow down and take time for yourself. It has taught me to find gratitude and appreciation every day. I absolutely adore the community of Townies Yogatown brings in. I love seeing everyone's smiling faces and getting to know all the Townies. On the days you don't find me at Yogatown, you will find me playing with my high energy 2 year old son. I am also in my final year of the Veterinary Technician program at Algonquin College. I'm hoping once I finish school I can help the vulnerable population and their pets.

Yoga for me is breath work, meditation, and guided body movement working closely with the mind. I see it as a personalized support system to our life, helping us connect with ourselves and the world around us. Being on the mat is like stepping into a magical world where anything is possible. My goal is to keep working with my students on developing functional movements that help them improve their everyday life. Providing  fun, creative classes full of great knowledge that will evolve your yoga practice on and off the mat. Fun facts about me, I moved to Thailand in 2015 for two years learning mixed martial arts, following my dreams was the best decision I made in my life. I love cooking, reading, running, hiking, and spending time with friends and family. I am a big fan of Naruto and like to watch Anime.

I discovered Yoga through a couple of friends that introduced me to Juan Carlos Linares and Ximena Lopez, two of the pioneers yoga teachers in Caracas, Venezuela in 2002. After a couple of years practicing in Yoga Pedregal and Yogashala, I moved to Ottawa to complete a Master Degree Program at Carleton University; and a 200 hour Teacher Training at Rama Lotus Yoga Center (2008-2009). In the summer of 2009, I got back to my country and participated not only as a yoga teacher in private studios and companies, but also as an active member of "En los Barrios" and "Yoga en la Plaza", two NGOs that seek, build and reinforce the concept of non-violence (Ahimsa), tolerance, respect to each other and peace in one of the most dangerous cities in the world, my beloved Caracas. Yoga has become my inspiration not only to quest for truth and spiritual guidance but also for healing and to achieve physical and emotional strength. I have realized how yoga can be the magical...

I started my yoga journey in a pivotal moment of my life, and I honestly believe it helped me find the path I was meant to be on. I learned how powerful it can be to just be still, to play within and test my edges, rather than trying to push past them all the time. Yogatown for years has been a place of surrender and self-discovery and as a teacher, I hope to encourage others to explore their edges and patterns. I aspire to create an environment in the studio where people feel safe and inspired. Off the mat, I love to play in nature, especially with my family. This includes long walks in the forest, paddle boarding and skate skiing whenever I can. I also love chocolate, deep conversations and saunas.

I took my first yoga class in 2006 and will never forget how present, embodied, and open- hearted I felt in the hours that followed. That day I became a student of yoga for life. Over the years my practice has shifted and evolved, always bringing new teachings and deepened release. Yoga has brought healing and benefit to every aspect of my life. I hope for the same to be true for you. My intentions in guiding you are to help you connect with yourself, receive insights from within, and shed what doesn’t serve you – through breath and movement. I am a mama to a lively toddler who is my greatest joy! I am also a Psychotherapist in private practice. In my spare time I love to study and integrate nature-based wellness practices.

Yoga has always been a practice I come back to when I need to re-ground. Something about stepping onto the mat and letting go of your ego and letting your body and mind become one is so unique. Outside of yoga I love weight training, I have been powerlifting for over a year, throw on some throwback 2000s R&B and hiphop and get to work.  I also love to play basketball, it was my first love and made me promise myself that I would remain active as long as my body allows.

Practicing yoga is, above all, a deliberate act of self-love. I am showing gratitude for everything my body allows me to experience, like the simple pleasure of expressive movement. It helps me to check in with myself and foster a lasting relationship with my body and mind. The world is often telling me not to love myself so that I can be sold something for a profit. Being kind and forgiving towards myself and my body is the ultimate act of social rebellion. I am eternally grateful for how my practice has encouraged me to be gentler with myself and others. 

Over the past few years, I have come to love and appreciate the benefits that yoga brings. In a world that is often moving too fast, it fosters a calmness that is hard to find elsewhere. I find I am able to instantly decompress the moment I enter the studio. When I am not at Yogatown, you can find me hanging out with my dog River, planning my next trip, or trying to keep up in a spin class.

Before I started practicing yoga regularly, it was never something that I thought would be a part of my life. When I stepped on my mat for the first time at Yogatown, it was the start of a beautiful journey of self discovery and development. My yoga practice has helped me to feel comfortable in my own skin, process challenges in my life, and to be curious and challenge my body in new ways. My mission as a yoga instructor is to inspire curiosity in my students; I want my classes to be accessible for every BODY and to encourage my students to listen to their bodies as we flow. "You can be both a masterpiece and a work in progress" Apart from yoga, I work as a Registered Kinesiologist where I support individuals in pain rehabilitation through movement. On my spare time I love playing soccer and shopping for new plants to add to my collection!

My yoga journey began in my early twenties while I was experiencing extreme back pain and sciatica from long hours of waitressing. In the early stages it was a good stretch and made my back feel better, but as time went on, I started to notice changes were happening off the mat. I was calmer, I felt this lightness I have never felt before and I was able to move through life a little slower. Yoga has been an amazing tool to slow down my overactive mind and start living my life with more presence and awareness. You know that amazing feeling when you leave a good class, and everything just feels blissful? That is the reason I became a teacher. I want to create a space that is safe for you to let go, and not worry about what it looks like. Yoga is about the journey, not the destination, so let’s have some fun with it! I can’t wait to move together!

Yoga is my time to be present and show up for myself.  I found yoga at a time when life was VERY busy.  It helped me devote time to taking care of 'me'.  Through yoga I've learned the value of slowing down and connecting with my body and my mind. When I'm not at the studio I spend my time hanging out with my family, reading, walking my pup - just enjoying life.

Yoga is the light that guides me through life. My initial relationship with yoga began as an opportunity to help my body recover from other activities, but it has become my mental saviour. I return to myself every time I step on my mat. Stepping into the studio at Yogatown for the first time felt like coming home, I knew I had found a place I belonged. Townie energy is so special! The experiences I had as a student lead me to take Yogatown’s Teacher Training. My mission as a teacher is to help you connect with your inner self, moving mindfully and intentionally. I blend my training in rehabilitation and anatomy with traditional yoga sequencing for fun, unique flows. I love music and spend almost as much time picking songs for my playlists as I do picking poses! Off my mat, you can find me treating patients as a chiropractor and gait coach. I love to run, bike, ski, swim, hike, read, and travel.

I fell in love with yoga 10 years ago. I was first drawn to the strength I was building physically, but by the end of my first 10 class pass, I was hooked on the mental benefits. I noticed I was kinder to myself. I was more present. I was more aware of my own thoughts and feelings. I knew I wanted to share these gifts with others. In early 2015, I took off to Southern Spain to complete my YTT with Frog Lotus Yoga International. I returned home after completing my training, only to quit my corporate job a few months later and travel back to the same Yoga Retreat Centre to assist with a Teacher Training, lead a retreat, and volunteer. Once back in Ottawa, I knew teaching yoga was the path I wanted to continue on. And I haven't looked back since! My goal as a teacher is to inspire students to deepen their foundation of yoga 'basics', with the outcome being a greater awareness of one's...

What began with a focus on physical benefits nearly twenty years ago, quickly developed into a love for yoga and everything it encompasses. Knowledge evolved into experience and the expanding qualities of strength and ease found a home in my heart. Over time I learned that my passion lies in creating and holding space for others. Opening to a new state of mind through asana, breath work and meditation, yoga has revealed a deep understanding of unity for me. It is in that unity that I hope to inspire you both on and off the mat so that you may carry the wisdom of yoga with you into your every day.   Yours in gratitude.

My love for health and fitness began in my 20’s and has spanned weight training, bootcamps, running, hot  yoga, yin yoga and everything in between.  I first came to yoga as a cross country runner whose knees were crying out for a change, and a corporate employee whose stress levels had reached their limit. Over the years I have come to understand the importance of balance in all realms of life.  Yoga has been the very essence of my physical and mental well-being and it is my passion to teach and share my experiences and knowledge with my students through studio and online classes, workshops, online communities and teacher trainings.

Yoga has been in my life for over 15 years, with increasing regular practice in the last 6 years. My focus on yoga started when chronic hip pain flared up when training for a half marathon run. I noticed that when I maintain a regular practice my hip feels great. I no longer run, but I've kept the yoga, and love it! My proudest yoga moment is also my most humble. It was when I recently completed Yoga Teacher Training. During that training I realized just how much more there is to learn, and that it was only the start of a long journey. When not in the studio you might find me cycling, on a stand up paddle board, camping, reading, or just spending time with my husband, 3 kids, and cat and dogs.

Yoga has been a salient part of my life for the past 20 years. Yoga has had a profound affect in fostering a healthy relationship with myself, as well as others. I initially began going to yoga classes for exercise but quickly realized it facilitated my overall mental wellness. On my mat I feel encouraged to be creative, to use discernment and to lead a heartfelt life. When I’m not on my mat I’m integrating what I’ve learned through movement, yoga philosophy and different spiritual techniques to assist myself and others in their journey of healing. If you see me in the lobby sippin’ on tea, come say hi!

Yoga, for me, continues to be a transformative tool that allows me to connect deeper with my inner personal wisdom that lies beneath all of life’s conditioning, childhood traumas, and environmental influences. Yoga allows me to live a more honest, fulfilled, and happy life honouring myself exactly the way I am. As a teacher, and lifelong student, I aim to share the many gifts of Yoga with my students as I continue to learn and grow alongside them. When I am not teaching or practicing yoga, you can find me with my two daughters doing anything outdoors: hiking, playing at the park, biking, and rollerblading. I also love to cook…give me all the tacos - any style, any kind, I love them all!

I am an educator with the Ottawa Catholic School Board and have a wide range of experience in many other domains. I have been interested in movement since I was a child. I played competitive basketball for six years while in school and it was then that I found interest in learning all types of activity. In my mid-twenties, I fell in love with yoga, finding joy in the journey of uncovering the body-mind connection. I've been practicing yoga for nearly 10 years. I love to share my passion for mobility, flexibility, strength and connection to self with others. I offer a glimpse of my movement practice on social media, particularly on Instagram. Intrigued to learn from others, I meet you where you are on your path, providing guidance through breath and movement, while your very own being unfolds.

I found yoga in my early twenties but didn’t start practicing regularly until after the birth of my two daughters. Classes quickly became an escape from my family responsibilities and an opportunity for me to reconnect with myself. When my family faced a particularly difficult challenge in 2014, I realized just how much I cherished those moments on my mat. Yoga and meditation were linked to my wellbeing. A few years later, I put my office job aside, started my yoga teacher training and launched In Balance Jewelry where I make malas and other jewelry with semi-precious stones. It has been quite the adventure so far and I am thankful for each and every day. I truly believe that self-care is imperative in combating stress and improving resilience as we move through this busy and often unpredictable life. Yoga has been my anchor through thick and thin. I feel honoured to help guide others in their practice.

I started my yoga journey in 2019 with Yogatown and immediately knew this was second home. I was looking for a new form of exercise, and little did I know, I was about to find an emotional and spiritual outlet as well. The wave of tranquility that has washed over me (or maybe that was sweat) was a feeling that I couldn't wait to experience again. The rest is history! When I am not at the studio, I am working as a youth addictions counsellor, using my down time to power through my ever-growing bookshelf, or talking to my fellow Townies about a shared love for Taylor Swift (tell me what your favorite era is next time you're in!)  

I fell in love with yoga for the physical, mental and spiritual benefits it provides me. I feel strong, clear headed, and so connected with my true self every single time I step on my mat. It’s as if I can feel the layers being pulled back, getting deeper and deeper to who I truly am. I offer a fluid and purposeful practice that allows you to flow smoothly and effortlessly with your breath and body, so that you can flow smoothly throughout life off your mat. When I have free time, you can find me hiking in the woods and spending time at the cottage.

Ever since I was a kid I have always had a passion for health and fitness. Having an active lifestyle has always been very important to me. In 2013, I was involved in a severe motor vehicle accident where I injured my left hip, resulting in surgery. During this time period I discovered Yoga as a form of exercise since high impact training was not an option. Yoga not only made me stronger physically, but also helped to incorporate mindfulness into my life. Yoga has taught me to slow down and to be present in the moment and to just enjoy it!  In 2018, I decided to take a leap and pursue my passion and did my teacher training here with Yogatown. Being able to teach and learn from others has been an unimaginable experience. As a teacher, my goal is to show other’s the benefits yoga provides, not only on the mat but more importantly in their everyday life, just like it did for me. When I am not...

I first discovered yoga as a way to heal the back pain i was experiencing post spinal surgery at the age of 19. Not long after my first class I discovered that this way of moving and flowing provided me with so much more than a physical workout and I quickly fell in love with the mental and spiritual benefits of the practice. Years later the simple act of softly landing on my mat continues to ground me and provide a sense of peace in the everyday busyness of life. Yoga has always been a constant in my life and I'm grateful for every opportunity that allows me to connect, guide and share my passion through a challenging and heartfelt sequence with my students. Off the mat you can find me growing my juice baby Renew Cold Press and delivering cold pressed nourishment around the city! I'm also a big homebody - in my downtime I love creating mood boards and exploring my passion for interior design!

My life is constantly on the go! Whether I’m busy with work, school, or extracurricular activities, I very rarely have free time just for myself. When I first started practicing yoga, I didn’t realize how beneficial it would be to help relieve stress and allow me to turn my brain off. I really started to understand the focus on breath between poses, and the benefits it has to help relax the body. I’ve found that yoga has been such a huge positive impact on not only my mental health, but also my physical health too. During the day’s, I work with young children as an Early Childhood Educator, and I also participate in extracurricular activities, one of which is cheerleading for the Ottawa RedBlacks Cheer and Dance Team. Both can be physically demanding on my body, and often cause strain or muscle tension, and I am very thankful to have my yoga practice to help me heal and recover. Outside of my yoga practice and cheerleading, I also enjoy staying...

Like many, my yoga journey began out of pure curiosity as well as a way to complement my fitness regiment. It soon transformed into a passion for the benefits it provided me on and off the mat. I love the opposite forces created between the challenges of the physical practice while bringing my mind to a state of focus and calm. Two decades as a police officer took a toll on my mental health and resulted in a post traumatic stress disorder diagnosis, a forced early retirement and many months of uphill battle. I decided to take my practice to the next level in order to give me purpose and regain mental strength. I credit yoga and everything that it is for what my life has now become. I feel privileged to guide others through their own practice. Outside of the hot room, I keep busy as a mom to 2 teenagers. Skiing is my first love but I enjoy anything fitness and nutrition.

Yoga has taught me not to give up, and that with time, patience and commitment anything is possible. When learning a new pose, I can never just shoot for full expression on day one, but if I slowly push myself each day, the pose will gradually come. Learning to hold a new pose comes after countless times of falling and falling is only a problem if you don’t try to get back into it again. If I’m not on my yoga mat, you’ll most probably find me in a spin class. I’m either completely silent in a yoga room or raving out to spin music – there’s no in between.

Yoga has had such a deep impact on my life. Physically, it has made me stronger and more flexible, but it also made me more comfortable with and accepting of my body. I was drawn to Power for years because I loved how strong it made me feel and how it engaged me mentally. After years of power I learned to soften, and connect to the Yin side of practice. Emotionally, it helped me unravel and shed layers and it has always offered a space for healing and quiet time with myself. As a whole, it has help evolve me as a person and has helped me to slow down and observe rather than react. I love to teach others how to find balance and it is always so great to see the shifts from beginning to the end of practice. I offer a challenging yet balanced practice with mindful and creative sequencing. Off the mat, I am an equestrian and you will often find me riding my horse, hanging out with friends and family....

I began to practice yoga simply as a form of exercise. Little did I know that a regular practice could bring me such joy. Yoga has given me the confidence to expand my fitness goals and has provided me with invaluable insight into the mind and body connection. Not only will you find me on the mat at Yogatown, you can spot me on the trail training for my next half marathon or watching a Blue Jays game.

My mission as a yoga teacher is to help my students connect with their breath through movement to create what’s know as a "flow state." A state of flow is known as a state of complete immersion in an activity. An experience of being completely involved in an activity for its own sake, where one looses all track of space and time. I LOVE giving this experience to my students through asana (physical yoga postures) — it’s pure magic. In addition to being a full time yoga teacher, I am a mom to a 15 year old daughter. I enjoy all sorts of physical activity but mostly that which keeps me curious about the body and it’s functional movement. I am passionate about natural health and a life long student of energy. soulyoga.me

Yoga has changed the way I connect with myself and the world around me. It allows me to move through life a little slower and come back to myself when I'm feeling lost. This practice has also taught me a lot about compassion. I've learned and am still learning how to love myself everyday when I get on my mat. As I dive deeper into this practice it continues to evolve my outlook on life and how I live everyday. As a teacher I aim to create an experience in which you feel empowered in your body, relaxed in your mind and rejuvenated in your spirit. Ultimately, I want you to feel good exactly as you are because you deserve to feel good. When I'm not at Yogatown you'll find me relaxing at home with a book or craft or maybe dancing around my apartment.

Yoga has taught me to be more comfortable and kind to myself. It has also taught me to be more open and patient, both on and off my mat.  I’m often in awe of how dedicating time to my practice allows me to recalibrate and bring a more simplistic approach to my life.  Vulnerability, playfulness, intention, beauty, community, self love; these are all lessons that have presented themselves to me in my practice.  I try not to anticipate them when I walk into the studio but, rather, let them unfold organically when the time comes.  Not every practice is pretty.  And that’s okay! In my spare time I enjoy spelunking,  ice climbing, snowboarding and geology — JUST KIDDING. My husband and I are the proud parents of 3 kids who are growing up faster than we’d like to admit.  We are on the precipice of being able explore other interests beyond family oriented adventures, but for now we’re loving this time.

For me, yoga is about that time I make for myself to hit the reset button. To disconnect from the world, and reconnect with myself. I found Yogatown at a particularly challenging time in my life and the studio became my anchor. I'm forever grateful for my second hOMe. Outside of the studio you can catching me cuddling with my cat Cricket, watching a Formula 1 race, or strolling the neighbourhood with my beau.

There is something so divine about yoga, I can't quite explain it. It brings out good vibrations in all facets of my life. The empathy it allows me, has transformed my views and has connected me fully and completely with the world around me. Practicing allows me to be more in tune with others and with myself. My mind has never been more clear and relaxed for which I'm forever grateful. Managing life's stress comes with a natural grace that wasn't there before. Flowing through my days and riding a constant wave of positivity makes me feel like I'm truly living the dream. Honestly there is nothing that gets me where I need to be better than yoga.

I have a passion for health, healing and natural living which has guided my on-going studies of yoga and informs the way I teach. I am a light-hearted, energetic, nature-loving yoga teacher who is known for my capacity to create a warm and welcoming space for all students. My yoga teaching style is inquisitive, playful and joyfully blends asana with breath, sound and meditation. My intention is to bring balance to the body/mind so that the natural joy of living and being can shine through.

Yoga has given me the framework to understand and connect to who I truly am. It is a complete honour to offer this framework to others and see how it influences their lives. In my classes, I invite my students to show up for who they are in the moment with curiosity and love. I love to teach tools that can be used in your every day life. I love live music, long boarding and my dog. I try and live life to the fullest every single day.

I was raised in a religious environment, but the first time I felt truly connected to spirit was in a yoga practice.  I remember thinking, as I lay in Corpse Pose, “This is the closest to spirit I will ever be.”  While I love the physical benefits of a yoga practice, what keeps me coming back is the capacity of the practice to make all aspects of my life and the relationship to my life better.  Instead of focusing on what I lack, yoga accepts me as I am, and gives me the space to feel into what is real moment to moment. My mission as a teacher is to create a safe and inclusive space where we can connect to our authentic selves and shine our lights brightly.   Yoga is for everybody. Outside of teaching I am an animal and nature lover.  I spend my time outside with my chocolate lab Misu.  I work as a Massage Therapist and am a student of Psychotherapy.  I am interested in reading, podcasts, connecting with friends through laughter, coffee,...

Yoga is my prayer in motion. Every time I step on the mat is a new chance to learn something about myself and to quietly observe my inner strength. Through practice I have acquired tools which have helped me live a more balanced, healthy and fulfilled life. I have overcome shame/self doubt after recovering from addiction and believe yoga has changed my brain chemistry from "scattered and shattered" to "whole and at peace". I am here to help guide you on your own journey of self discovery through the power of movement and breath. See you in the hot room!

My journey with yoga began after the birth of my second daughter. At first, it was merely a workout and a chance to escape the demands of parenting and a high-stress career. But I quickly realized the mental and spiritual benefits of my practice - for the first time in years, I felt connected to my true Self. Yoga has helped me shift from overdrive to neutral, from the future to the now. Yogatown holds a special place in my heart - from the strong sense of community to the positive energy that radiates through the space, stepping into the studio feels just like coming home. I'm blessed to have gained a second "family" at Yogatown! Anything is possible when you live a mindful and authentic life, and I'm grateful to step into the teaching role to help others discover this magic! When not in the studio, I help entrepreneurs start and grow businesses on Shopify. I also spin, run and snowboard and try to spend as much time as...

Genevieve’s teaching is heavily influenced by her upbringing of being raised on a sailboat on the ocean. Her creative sequencing encourages you to let go of expectation and assumptions- as you are taken on a journey through the waves of the breath. Infused with soulful purpose and intention, expect to laugh, learn, play and explore the depths of your whole self. Genevieve is a Yoga Ambassador for Lole Ottawa as well as Ottawa based Free Soul Malas. She is the founder of Upeksha Yoga Teacher Training, where she holds yearly Trainings in South Goa, India. genevievemunro.com

Yoga is an ongoing practice that evolves as we do. We never step onto our mat the same person, and that’s what keeps it interesting! I believe that when we get onto our mat we should feel empowered and curious. This is our time to explore and play, be free of ego and let go of expectations! Travel is a huge passion of mine! I blend my love of yoga with this passion for world travel in my retreat and training offerings! Bali has a special place in my heart and is the location for my 2020 In Alignment 200 hour YTT! When I’m not in the studio or exploring the world you will find me somewhere in nature with my two dogs, Jake and Abby. aleyshaderksen.com

Yoga has brought so many positives to my life. It challenges me to check in on a regular basis, and encourages me to listen to my heart and embrace my true self. What draws me to Yogatown is the great sense of community. I feel welcome every time I walk through the doors, and energized and alive when I leave. I am proud to be both a teacher and student at this amazing studio. I feel so fortunate to have found yoga and be able to share it with my family. It's pretty cool watching my young children practice at home. I look forward to witnessing the impact that yoga will undoubtedly have on all of our lives.

Yoga has had such a profound impact on my life. Initially it helped my over active, out of control mind find steadiness + equanimity. Over time it has helped me flow through different stages of life with grace + clarity. I can proudly say I am a more hopeful, compassionate, patient version of myself (most days) thanks to my daily practice. I really don't know how people parent without it. If I have to choose one thing that I love most about Yogatown it's the tribe. I love the students, the staff, and the teachers! I practice where I teach. I think that says it all. Yoga has had such a profound impact on my life. Initially it helped my over active, out of control mind find steadiness + equanimity. Over time it has helped me flow through different stages of life with grace + clarity. I can proudly say I am a more hopeful, compassionate, patient version of myself (most days) thanks to my daily practice. I really don't...

I found yoga in my twenties, initially as a form of exercise,  but over time progressed into so much more. I’m full of fire, a fast moving pitta, walk fast, talk fast, do a million thing in one day kind of gal.  Yoga slows me down!   I’m more grounded, mindful, less reactive, patient, and balanced because of yoga.  Living in the moment is my specialty, and yoga is exactly that.  Slowing down to connect with life, thoughts, feelings, and emotions.  I love teaching yoga because I love helping others to slow down, connect and enjoy what is. Carpe Diem - Seize the Day are words to live by!! As a top producing real estate agent and a hockey mom of 3 boys, balance is a necessity, and carving out time for myself is a non negotiable.  I love to workout, go to yoga or spin classes, and being outdoors-mountain biking, snowboarding and wake boarding. jackiebeaudoin.com

Yoga connects me to my body, clears out the clutter in my mind and reminds me what’s important. As a teacher, that’s what I want to share with students. Outside of yoga I love to dance. And I’ve been known to sneak a few dance moves into a yoga class. 😉 meganbeahen.com

20 years ago my best friend brought me to my very first yoga class and it was an experience I'll never forget.  I struggled A LOT (I was so out of shape) but something lit up inside me.  I remember walking home after class, down that same street I had walked thousands of times before, only this time the trees looked different. Everything looked brighter. More alive. More vivid.  I felt relaxed, and not in a sleepy sense, but in an “I know that everything is going to be ok” kind of way. I am often asked, "how often do you practice yoga?"  And for me now, yoga is a way of life.  It helped more than anything else with my depression.  It has improved my relationship with myself and others.  It helps me stay grounded and centred in this hectic past-paced world.  It's a one-stop shop for me - chiropractic, personal training, self-care and most of all, my therapy, all wrapped up in one 60min class. While I have been teaching yoga for many years, I...

I was first introduced to meditation at 12 years old and then yoga in my late teens. They’ve both been a part of my life ever since and have influenced me in more ways than I can explain. When I first began to practice it was with curiosity, then over time I practiced with dedication, and now after 30+ years I practice with a sense an increasing sense of ease. I no longer measure my practice by poses I can hold or how few thoughts I have during my meditation, but instead I practice based on my intuition, listening to my body and breath for guidance to create space and balance in my life. Blah! Cheesy I know, but it’s true. 🙂 One of the the greatest inspirations for my practice came while watching my children as babies. They would naturally move into positions that we’d call pigeon, or bow, or… you guessed it… child’s pose. Or they'd simply sit and "be", with no agenda or goal. It was then...