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.

"A deep hug of gratitude to you for getting up those cold January mornings and leading us in the Sadhana! I'm very grateful for your teaching and support. After 14 days, I am feeling more open, more flexible, more physically confident and naturally, more centred and balanced. And just a little proud of myself." ~ Cheryl Sylvester

"You and your studio have become part of the fabric of my life - and now, my sister's as well. I hope we will both be able to continue coming for many more years - weekly classes and sadhanas - although you may eventually have to invest in some sort of chair lift! Your constant smile, positive attitude and charm make your classes a special place to be." ~ Margaret King

"Joanne has drawn upon influences from several different teaching philosophies and styles to develop her own unique approach to the instruction of hatha and raja yoga. Her philosophy is that yoga is for everyone, everywhere, whether they be male, female, young, old, in the office, at home or in the yoga studio." ~ Ascent Magazine