Have a question about Esther Myers Yoga Studio? Click on a question below to view the answer.
Classes
I see that the session has already begun. Can I still start?
Yes, you may. The fees will be pro-rated.
Can I take a class first without committing for the whole session? To see if it suits me?
Yes. An introductory class is $11 or 3 for $33 for anyone new to the Studio,
or as a first time student you can purchase an unlimited classes and workshops pass for 1 week for $44.
Which class is for me?
As a first time student you can purchase a 3 card class for $33 or an unlimited classes and workshops pass for 1 week for $44. This will allow you to try out a few classes at a discounted rate, and help you to determine which class suits you best. Once you have finished the 3 class card or the week of unlimited classes and workshops, you can pay for the remaining weeks in the class of your choice at a pro rated cost, or you can purchase a 6, 10, or 20 class card and have the flexibility of changing the class that you take based on your schedule. The nature of our approach is such that you will accumulate knowledge in every class you attend and be fully part of the learning process, even when you participate only on a drop-in basis.
In both the Beginner and Beginner/Intermediate classes we cover postures that are appropriate for beginner students. Over the course of a term the students learn and practise forward bends, back bends, twists and side bends as well as inversion preparations. Every student moves at their own pace and integrates the practice in the way that is most productive for their body. By definition, in the Beginner classes there is no expectation of any previous knowledge about the postures or our approach to yoga. As a first time student at the Studio we recommend that you try either a Beginner or a Beginner/Intermediate class. All of our teachers are accustomed to welcoming and integrating new students into their classes at any point in the term. You will receive the instruction that you need as a new student in order to feel comfortable in the class.
The classes entitled All Levels, Gentle Yoga, Yoga for Back Care, and Complete Beginner are designed for learning or relearning the basics, stress relief, body and breath awareness, healthy movement, and enjoyment. The exercises are simple and repeated frequently. Classes are personalized, meditative, positive and relaxing.
The Gentle Beginner Class is for students who prefer to go very slowly for a variety of reasons. Some people find a slower quieter class meditative, some need to ease themselves into physical activity, some have a specific injury or a specific condition that requires a gentler approach to the body. The gentle class introduces those who have not practised yoga before to some of the poses and is also suitable for someone who wants/needs to take things easy, but not spend the whole time in relaxation.
In a Gentle Beginner Class, we cover fewer postures than in a Beginner Class. The Gentle Beginner Class is 1.25 hours long. The Beginner Class is 1.75 hours long.
Intermediate/Advanced and Advanced: Intermediate and Advanced students have considerable experience practising the basic principles of the approach at the Studio: breathing, grounding and elongating. Traditional yoga postures such as inversions, backbends, and meditation are taught as well as unusual and experimental alternatives.
Pre Natal Yoga: Practising yoga during pregnancy nurtures you throughout this powerful transition. Our classes provide instruction, information, emotional support, and an opportunity to share your experience. The poses stretch and strengthen your body, creating space for your baby. Learn deep breathing techniques and enjoy guided relaxation, as you prepare for giving birth and new parenthood.
Parents & Babies: Take time to begin gently reclaiming your body after pregnancy and childbirth. You’ll stretch, breathe and release fatigue and stiffness under the watchful eye of your baby. Meeting others with young babies helps put the world in perspective. Either parent welcome, or both!
Breathing Meditation: Take time just to breathe. These classes include basic breathing exercises (pranayama) and a variety of breath awareness, relaxation and meditation techniques as well as Q&A and discussion.
Anxiety Classes: Practise and discuss asana and pranayama techniques that you can work with at home to help you manage anxiety. Understand the basis for each practice and how it may help you to re-energize the natural relaxation response and move you toward health and balance.
Yoga for Stress Management for Teens: Learn simple, enjoyable techniques that can help you deal with stress at school, home, work and in social situations. We will explore yoga postures and breathing and meditation techniques. No previous yoga experience is required.
Note: we run this class from time to time. Please check the class schedule to see if it is currently being offered or contact the Studio for more information.
Kundalini Yoga is an energetic, uplifting, yet grounding practice involving rhythmic movement, breathing, and chanting. We teach a style of Kundalini Yoga as taught by Yogi Bhajan.
Qi Gong uses slow, repetitive and meditative physical movements ranging from simple to complex that work every tissue and system in the body. The effect of Qigong calms the mind and activates the energy and breath maintaining optimum health and over time may allow the body to recover from chronic illness. Sets usually are 5-10 moves. Modifications can be made to accommodate physical challenges.
Can I change classes if I want, or would I be restricted to the class I signed up for?
Yes, you can change the class you attend from week to week, if necessary.
Can I make up classes I miss?
Yes, you may attend any other classes during the term. If you have an erratic schedule and need more flexibility, we have a 20-class card for $375, a 10-class card for $200 and a 6-class card for $125. The 20 and 10-class cards are valid for 1 year, and the 6-class card is valid for 6 months. We also offer passes for unlimited classes for 1 year, unlimited classes and workshops for 1 year, unlimited workshops for 1 year, unlimited Friday afternoons, and unlimited classes and workshops for 1 month. If paying by the term,missed classes must be used during the same term for classes or workshops. Make-ups cannot be applied to intensives, retreats, special events or visiting teachers’ workshops. Missed classes may also be carried over as extra classes if the following term is paid for in full.
Do you have a sliding scale for the fees?
Yes. The first class is $11. After that, if you cannot afford the full fee, you may speak to Monica Voss or Tama Soble about a reduced rate.
Do you have parking?
There are 3 parking spaces allocated to Esther Myers Yoga Studio (MYERS) and 2 public spots (VISITOR), which you can use. Dupont Street has metered parking. There is also parking on the side streets in the area. All other spaces on the premises are used on a 24/7 basis.
Where exactly are you located? Which is the nearest intersection?
We are on the north side of Dupont Street at Brunswick Avenue, about half way between Spadina Avenue and Bathurst Street.
Are you near the subway?
Yes, Dupont subway is about 5 minutes walk away. If you get out on the north/west corner, stay on the north side and walk west.
What do I wear?
Loose comfortable clothing such as track pants, footless tights, shorts, T-shirts, and/or sweatshirts. Layers can be useful. We are air-conditioned in the summer.
Do I have to bring anything?
We have mats, blankets, bolsters etc. However, we do encourage you to bring your own mat if you have one.
What changing facilities do you have?
We have change rooms with a washroom, but no showers.
When during my pregnancy should I take the pre-natal class?
If you have taken yoga before and it is early in the pregnancy, you might want to start with a Beginner/Int. class, then join the pre-natal at 6-7 months. If you are new to yoga, you can start the pre-natal class at any time.
What is the difference between the pre-natal class and pre-natal workshop?
The classes focus on many different stretches and breathing techniques, while the workshop is for labour preparation with or without a partner.
How old should my baby be before we come to the Parents & Babies class?
This depends entirely on when the mother feels ready to go out. Generally the babies are between 6 weeks and 10 months. The focus of the class is on the mother’s breathing, movement and recovery.
