$35+hst Standard Rate | $45+hst Community Supporter
Subsidized Rate: 20% off the Standard Rate (for more information on how to access the subsidized rate, visit our Sliding Scale Pricing webpage)
Please note, this class takes place in our 3rd floor studio. After the teacher’s fee, any additional proceeds from the class will be donated to SPECTRUM.
This workshop will take place IN-STUDIO only.
Cost per family: $30+hst Standard Rate | $40+hst Community Supporter
Subsidized Rate: 20% off the Standard Rate (for more information on how to access the subsidized rate, visit our Sliding Scale Pricing webpage)
Come out to practice with your family - big or small - while we explore the elements of Earth, Water, Fire, Air and Space. This practice will be beginner friendly, and will take you on a journey through flowy, fun, and fiery moves. Learn techniques to use at home as a family, including deep breathing and moving our bodies to help express your energy. We'll end with a kid-friendly guided meditation and feel the gentle energy of resting our bodies together so you’ll leave refreshed for the week ahead.
Geared towards kids age 4-11 with their caregiver(s). Cost is per “family”, which can include 1-2 adults plus 1-3 kids.
$100+hst Standard Rate | $120+hst Community Supporter
Subsidized Rate: 20% off the Standard Rate (for more information on how to access the subsidized rate, visit our Sliding Scale Pricing webpage)
As a caregiver, either by circumstance or profession, is your experience so often centered on others that you feel as if there is simply not enough time left for you?
Nourish yourself in an immersive, afternoon restorative experience of guided mindful movement, rest, and somatic inquiry to listen to the wisdom of your own body.
The retreat will include:
Snacks will be provided.
Format:This workshop will take place IN-STUDIO only.
$35+hst Standard Rate | $45+hst Community Supporter
Subsidized Rate: 20% off the Standard Rate (for more information on how to access the subsidized rate, visit our Sliding Scale Pricing webpage)
You are welcome to join us in our nest of rest. In this workshop, you will gain a foundational understanding of yoga nidra, its many practical applications, and essential tips for a safe, trauma-informed, and beneficial practice. It will include a complete restorative flow and yoga nidra practice, which involves a nourishing combination of gentle mindful movement, restorative postures, and soothing breath work before transitioning into restful yoga nidra. Beginners welcome.
What is yoga nidra? Yoga nidra is a paradoxical meditative state of conscious sleep; a beautiful space where we may come home to our Hearts.
Many beautiful treasures can be encountered as we practice: healthy sleep cycles, release of old tensions, emotional resilience, intuitive insights, and even creative ideas to name a few… that said, what happens in your yoga nidra space is for you to uncover, and you can trust that your body’s wisdom will extract exactly what it needs from each practice—without any effort on your part. Yoga nidra is typically practiced in a resting position, so you may simply lie back, lightly listen to the sound of my guidance, and let the magic unfold.
About Kimberley Luu I’m a therapeutic yoga teacher specializing in yoga nidra. With healing justice at the foundation of my teaching and practice, my aim is to facilitate restorative experiences that help soothe the collective wounds which systems of oppression burden our bodies daily.
I began practicing yoga in 2008 and discovered yoga nidra specifically six years later during my graduate studies—a period marked heavily by chronic insomnia and exhaustion. Yoga nidra helped me find solace and rest during this difficult time, and has since expanded to support me through my creative work, relationships, community engagements, and spiritual practice.
After much personal exploration, I completed my Therapeutic, Restorative, and Yin Yoga Teacher Trainings with Felicia Pavlovic and Ante Pavlovic at Yoga Therapy Toronto. Soon after, I completed my Yoga Nidra Teacher Training with Uma Dinsmore-Tuli and Nirlipta Tuli at Total Yoga Nidra. In addition to my trainers, I am gratefully influenced by leaders in trauma-sensitive yoga, including Nicole Brown Faulknor, Sheila Singh, and Yoli Maya Yeh. My pronouns are she/ her.
a 3 hour workshop with Lisa Beraldo and Weronika Walker
Fee per couple: $175+hst Standard Rate | $205+hst Community Supporter
Subsidized Rate: 20% off the Standard Rate (for more information on how to access the subsidized rate, visit our Sliding Scale Pricing webpage)
Prepare for a more connected, grounded and comfortable pregnancy, labour and birth with this workshop. The presence, participation and encouragement of a dedicated support person or birth partner is a powerful aid to labour and delivery. You and your partner will enhance your awareness of and trust in each other for the entire labour and birth process. This workshop will add several tools to your toolbox for having a more comfortable birth, and will build your confidence in applying the strategies you know. You’ll be empowered to cultivate greater relaxation, connection and understanding for birth.
The workshop will include:
This workshop is available for all couples, or birth partners of pregnant people. Your support person or birth partner could also be a family member or close friend, not necessarily a romantic partner. The Branches is a 2SLGBTQ+ affirming organization, and we endeavor to be an anti-racist and size-inclusive space. Folks at any stage of pregnancy are welcome. No previous yoga experience necessary. The in-person workshop takes place in our 3rd floor studio (no elevator), however an online option is available as a more accessible option. Please register in advance to avoid disappointment- space is limited to 10 pairs. Access to the workshop recording and handouts are included.
Lisa Beraldo (she/her) leads The Branches pre- and postnatal programming. Lisa began practicing yoga when she was pregnant with her first child and knew she had found something that was necessary in her life - physically, emotionally and spiritually. Lisa has a BA in Child and Youth Counseling, and Family Work, and has experience working with children and families in a wide range of communities and settings. She completed her 250-hour Yoga Teacher Training at The Branches in 2020, and her Restorative Yoga Teacher Training in March 2023. In December 2023, she completed Prenatal Yoga Teacher Training with the Prenatal Yoga Center. Off the mat, Lisa loves being outside in nature - hiking, camping and canoeing. Most importantly, spending time with her family - her partner and their three children.
Weronika Walker (she/her) is a birth and postpartum doula, an outdoor guide and a former paramedic and firefighter. Through her doula business, Fern & Nettle Doula Services, she provides compassionate care to families in the Waterloo Region. She believes that every person should have access to inclusive, full-spectrum reproductive health care and she strives to help her clients have the experiences they desire. Weronika loves witnessing people become parents and she feels grateful every time someone invites her to be a part of their journey. When not working as a doula, Weronika tries to go on as many outdoor adventures as she can, she reads passionately and collects wild plants for food and medicine.
Format: This workshop will be offered in a hybrid (virtual and in-person) format. By registering for the IN-STUDIO option, you are reserving an in-person spot at the studio. If you prefer to attend the workshop online, please register for the VIRTUAL listing as in-person spots are limited.
The Nov-Dec Restorative Trio Bundle includes:
Candlelit Restorative: Grounding with Sandbags
with Wendy Michaud
Fri Nov 8, 7:30-9pm
Candlelit Restorative: Acuball Extravganza
with Emma Dines
Fri Nov 29, 7:30-9pm
Candlelit Restorative: Blissful Breath
with Leena Miller Cressman
Fri Dec 13, 7:30-9pm
*Full descriptions for each workshop can be found in the individual listings. Please note the day and time of each workshop may differ.
All workshops in this bundle will take place IN-STUDIO only.
$30+hst Standard Rate | $40+hst Community Supporter
Subsidized Rate: 20% off the Standard Rate (for more information on how to access the subsidized rate, visit our Sliding Scale Pricing webpage)
Please note, this class takes place in our 3rd floor studio. After the teacher’s fee, any additional proceeds from the class will be donated to SPECTRUM.
This workshop will take place IN-STUDIO only.
Cost per family: $30+hst Standard Rate | $40+hst Community Supporter
Subsidized Rate: 20% off the Standard Rate (for more information on how to access the subsidized rate, visit our Sliding Scale Pricing webpage)
The Branches is unable to provide any:
If a child requires personal care or behavioural support, families are welcome to send a qualified 1:1 support person with their child and we will happily accommodate.
Classes at The Branches are not alternatives to ABA Therapy and/or Social and Group Skills Programs. The Branches reserves the right to remove a child from the class and/or course, without refund, if any disabilities or special needs have not been communicated at the time of registration, and/or the level of care and support required was not accurately communicated.
UNMANAGEABLE, INAPPROPRIATE AND DANGEROUS BEHAVIOUR
The Branches reserves the right to remove a child from class, without refund, if their behaviour or the behaviour of their parent(s)/guardian(s) is deemed to be unmanageable, inappropriate, and/or is dangerous to themselves or others. Bullying and harassment – of any kind – will not be tolerated.
$30+hst Standard Rate | $40+hst Community Supporter
Subsidized Rate: 20% off the Standard Rate (for more information on how to access the subsidized rate, visit our Sliding Scale Pricing webpage)
$30+hst Standard Rate | $40+hst Community Supporter
Subsidized Rate: 20% off the Standard Rate (for more information on how to access the subsidized rate, visit our Sliding Scale Pricing webpage)
a 3 hour workshop with Lisa Beraldo and Weronika Walker
Fee per couple: $175+hst Standard Rate | $205+hst Community Supporter
Subsidized Rate: 20% off the Standard Rate (for more information on how to access the subsidized rate, visit our Sliding Scale Pricing webpage)
Prepare for a more connected, grounded and comfortable pregnancy, labour and birth with this workshop. The presence, participation and encouragement of a dedicated support person or birth partner is a powerful aid to labour and delivery. You and your partner will enhance your awareness of and trust in each other for the entire labour and birth process. This workshop will add several tools to your toolbox for having a more comfortable birth, and will build your confidence in applying the strategies you know. You’ll be empowered to cultivate greater relaxation, connection and understanding for birth.
The workshop will include:
This workshop is available for all couples, or birth partners of pregnant people. Your support person or birth partner could also be a family member or close friend, not necessarily a romantic partner. The Branches is a 2SLGBTQ+ affirming organization, and we endeavor to be an anti-racist and size-inclusive space. Folks at any stage of pregnancy are welcome. No previous yoga experience necessary. The in-person workshop takes place in our 3rd floor studio (no elevator), however an online option is available as a more accessible option. Please register in advance to avoid disappointment- space is limited to 10 pairs. Access to the workshop recording and handouts are included.
Lisa Beraldo (she/her) leads The Branches pre- and postnatal programming. Lisa began practicing yoga when she was pregnant with her first child and knew she had found something that was necessary in her life - physically, emotionally and spiritually. Lisa has a BA in Child and Youth Counseling, and Family Work, and has experience working with children and families in a wide range of communities and settings. She completed her 250-hour Yoga Teacher Training at The Branches in 2020, and her Restorative Yoga Teacher Training in March 2023. In December 2023, she completed Prenatal Yoga Teacher Training with the Prenatal Yoga Center. Off the mat, Lisa loves being outside in nature - hiking, camping and canoeing. Most importantly, spending time with her family - her partner and their three children.
Weronika Walker (she/her) is a birth and postpartum doula, an outdoor guide and a former paramedic and firefighter. Through her doula business, Fern & Nettle Doula Services, she provides compassionate care to families in the Waterloo Region. She believes that every person should have access to inclusive, full-spectrum reproductive health care and she strives to help her clients have the experiences they desire. Weronika loves witnessing people become parents and she feels grateful every time someone invites her to be a part of their journey. When not working as a doula, Weronika tries to go on as many outdoor adventures as she can, she reads passionately and collects wild plants for food and medicine.
Deepen your yoga practice with dedicated learning opportunities. Whether you are seeking an approach to yoga that works for your body, or you want to focus on a specific area like postures and breathing, yoga philosophy, yoga ayurveda or self-care, we’ve got a teacher who wants to dive deep with you! Our staff are passionate life-long learners who love to share approachable practices with their students.
Drop-in passes and memberships do not apply to courses and workshops. Each course or workshop must be registered for separately
Courses: Our courses inlcude 4-6 interactive, weekly sessions. This approach allows for a progressive experience and/or a deeper exploration of topics. In addition, course participants receive access to a virtual course portal that includes recordings of any live-streamed classes, and a set of on-demand video practices and other learning materials specially selected to complement the course. To allow plenty of time to explore these offerings, all participants will have access to the course portal for 90 days. All participants will recieve an email a day or two before the course begins with information on studio policies, how to join a class virtually, and how to access the course portal.
Hybrid Courses - Many of our courses have the option to join in-studio or virtually, so be sure to read the course title & description carefully when you sign up. By registering for the IN-STUDIO option of a hybrid course, you may choose to attend each session in-person or online. If you prefer to attend all the sessions online, please register for the VIRTUAL listing of the course as in-person spots are limited.
In-Studio Courses - Courses with only an IN-STUDIO listing will not include a virtual participation option, and class sessions will not be recorded.
Workshops: Our workshops are single modules that either introduce a concept that supports your regular practice, or dives deep into a special topic to stoke your curiosity. Workshops come with additional take-home handouts and video replay access to solidify your learning.
**In the event of a mandated shut down due to COVID, workshops courses will pivot to virtual livestream classes or will be postponed, depending on the nature of the practice. Registration fees will not be refunded.
COURSES
Prenatal Yoga
Yoga for Round Bodies
Meditation for Resilient Living
Beyond Flexibility: Mobility for Yoga & Athletics
Yoga for Trauma Recovery
WORKSHOPS
Free Your Feet
Strength & Fun with Resistance Bands
Building A Home Practice
Peace In, Peace Out: Pranayama and Breath
Downward Dog in Depth
These policies apply to courses and workshops that are valued at $150 or less (before taxes).
Fees will be returned as follows:
With notice of 7 days or longer: 100% studio credit -or- a refund less a $15 fee.
With notice of 6 days to 24 hours: 50% studio credit
No refunds of any kind will be given for no-shows or for less than 24 hours notice.
If you contact us in advance to make arrangements to have a friend take your spot, we may be able to adjust which type of refund you are eligible for. Except in extenuating circumstances, no refunds of any kind will be granted if notice is given once the course or workshop has begun.
These policies apply to retreats, workshops, or intensives which are 5 hours or longer and/or valued at $150 or higher (before taxes). Does not apply to YTT.
Fees will be returned as follows:
With notice of 30 days or longer: 100% studio credit -or- 75% refund of the total value of the program which has been paid or is due.
With notice of 29 days to 7 days in advance: 75% studio credit -or- 50% refund of the total value of the program which has been paid or is due.
No credit or refunds will be given for no-shows or for less than 7 days notice.
Contact us in advance to make arrangements to have a friend take your spot, and we may be able to adjust which type of refund you are eligible for. Except for extenuating circumstances, no refunds of any kind will be granted if notice is given once the retreat, long workshop, or intensive has begun.