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 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

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

"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