Starting this Saturday I am going to be taking me, my new yoga mat and Yogitoes towel to a beginner’s yoga workshop at 889 Yonge.

For four Saturdays I will be going back to the basics of yoga and hopefully learning for the first time how to do things properly. I’m currently in the love stage of my love/hate relationship with yoga so am hoping these classes are going to finally put me on the right path.

Since I’m a big 889 Yonge fan I decided that taking the workshop here was probably the best bet for me – I love their urban tea sanctuary.

I have been curious about Fireflow Yoga for quite awhile now as it is in my neighbourhood. I have walked by the studio countless times and have even looked them up online to see what they offered. That said I just never managed to take the plunge and go to a class there or even go inside to have a look around. I think the main reason why neither of these things ever happened was because I didn’t like where the studio was located on Eglinton – upstairs and next to a psychic/tarot reader place. In my head I decided that this equalled something that wouldn’t appeal to me. 

This changed last night.

Throughout the 18 weeks of recent marathon training I really ignored my body’s need to do some stretching, so last night I decided to put my Passport to Prana to good use and try out Fireflow Yoga. 

Fireflow Yoga it turns out has a really nice studio space (with an awesome boutique section!). I discovered as I often do that one shouldn’t judge a book by its cover. Upon arrival I was immediately welcomed to the studio and made to feel at ease. The teacher was accessible and throughout the class she demonstrated modifications which I really appreciated as I should definitely not have been in the Level 1/2 class that I was in! Thank you for this and for helping to give my limbs the stretch they needed. 

What I would go to this studio for:

Fireflow Yoga offers a 4 week absolute beginner workshop which I think would be great for someone like me who has never really been taught how to do anything from a sun salutation to tree poses properly. I think I would really benefit from being in a class with others who are probably as clueless as me.   Their next session starts on November 21st and is $80. Mmm, maybe this will be my next fitness challenge?

Interview with one of Toronto’s most beautiful yoga spaces.

Can you tell me a little bit about 889 Yonge?

889 Yonge is devoted team of wellness experts supporting our guests in their pursuit of increased energy, happiness and health. We offer a comprehensive Yoga program, Holistic Spa treatments, a team of Holistic Doctors including a Naturopathic Dr., Traditional Chinese Medicine Dr. and Osteopath, as well as a Lifestyle Boutique with many holistic and eco-friendly products.

There are a lot of yoga studios in Toronto what makes 889 Yonge different?

Our space is serene and has a truly positive vibe; it is free from toxins and free from the external distractions and chaos of the bustling city. Our late 1800’s Victorian ‘home’ has been designed with the intention of preserving the environment and with a commitment to sustainability. 889 is a Membership based community and our Yoga program offers our guests fewer teachers who are here more often. Our teachers are here to support and guide our guests in their journey towards achieving good health, balance, increased energy and happiness.

If you had to describe 889 Yonge in one sentence what would it be?

At 889 Yonge, we have built a business around our profound belief in the possibility of personal transformation and connection; we inspire a healthier and happier lifestyle from the inside out.

What is a yoga class at 889 Yonge like?

At 889, we are known for our signature Vinyasa Flow Yoga classes. These dynamic, creative classes set to groovy tunes are intensely challenging yet completely calming. Perfect for those “Type A” personalities who can’t still but desperately need to relax.

What are your top three tips for people completely new to yoga?

• One of our most popular offerings is our Beginner Yoga Workshop – a perfect way to learn Yoga in a fun and friendly environment (and you don’t have to be a pretzel!)
• Don’t take yourself too seriously or be too hard on yourself – yoga is about feeling better when you leave not worse, we’re not training for the Olympics!
• Breathe!

How often would someone need to practice yoga before noticing any benefits?

You will definitely notice a shift after experiencing one yoga class, but like anything consistency is really the key to receive the full benefit of yoga.

Many yoga studios lately are offering classes like Yoga for Runners. Can yoga be beneficial for people involved in other sports, such as running?

Absolutely! Yoga is about creating balance in both the body and mind. It allows you to bring equal awareness to all muscle groups, activates small muscle groups and supports your joints, ligaments and tendons. Yoga helps to reduce lactic acid buildup and repair muscles, preventing injury. Yoga is an incredible way to settle and calm the mind, for athletes, a steady mind is a key component in performance.

What are your three must-have yoga products (e.g. favourite yoga pants, brand of mat, etc.)

Zobha Pants: These lightweight, high-performing pants are gorgeous and provide exceptional fit for your practice.

Jade Harmony Yoga Mat: Made from natural rubber, these non-slip, biodegradable mats are perfect for your practice. Jade Yoga is committed to the environment and a tree is planted for every mat sold.

Vysada Mat Cleaner: Vysada’s Yoga Mat Spray is a safe and non-toxic way to help fight germs and odors. Made with 100% organic essential oils and witch hazel it is free from harsh synthetic fragrances and chemicals

Interested in learning more? Visit their studio at 889 Yonge or visit their website – www.889yonge.com.

889 Yonge is also on Twitter – @889Yonge