This is for all of those people who are currently feeling a little “cramped” during this time. We’re a couple of weeks into self-isolation right now and I’m sure we’re all experiencing some irritation, fatigue, anxiety, uncertainty, lack of motivation, the list goes on. Being stuck inside for the majority of the day certainly takes a toll on the mind and body. Although we may be inclined to move from our beds to the couch and back again everyday, it’s important to make an effort to take care of your physical and mental health. And what better way to do that is through yoga.
I myself have never been committed to yoga. I have tried a couple of classes before, but I much prefer more diverse types of exercising: playing sports, going outside, high intensity interval training. But over the last few weeks, I’ve extremely benefited from trying several free online yoga classes. Especially considering that we don’t have access to gyms and our bank accounts could use a breather. As a student, we’re nearing the end of the semester with endless essays, projects, and exams due. Dealing with this stressful and confusing time, it is taking a toll on our overall health whether we know it or not. Studies show that yoga improves your physical and mental health in so many ways. So I have put together a list of free online yoga classes that are easily accessible to try at your convenience. It can be overwhelming trying to find free exercise classes as there are hundreds to choose from. All of my top picks are Toronto based. It’s more important than ever to start supporting our local businesses during this tough time. Take a look at some of these amazing Toronto studios we are so fortunate to have in our city. I can guarantee that your mind and body will extremely benefit from their amazing classes!
1.Power Yoga Canada
With several studios spread throughout Ontario, this yoga community is offering seven free live streamed power yoga classes every day. Personally, this is my favourite yoga class that I have ever taken before. All classes are 1-hour in length, varying from power yoga to deep yoga. The instructors are fantastic, all leading the classes from their homes. You can make them as challenging as you want with modifications for every movement and pose. You can live stream their classes on Instagram or Facebook. They also save all of their live streamed videos to Facebook afterwards, so go and check them out and experience an amazing power yoga class!
2.Oxygen Yoga
This Canadian based yoga studio is offering five free live streamed yoga classes every day. They have a variety of 1-hour yoga classes to choose from. They also offer a variety of on demand classes, varying from specific yoga classes to legs and core based ones. My personal favourite is their yoga and core class! Find them on Instagram or Facebook.
https://oxygenyogaandfitness.com
3.Sweat and Tonic
Toronto’s new fitness and wellness club is offering a variety of their regular classes live streamed on Instagram every day. They also have easily accessible IGTV workouts you can do at any time of day. I would highly recommend their Sweat Flow yoga class. If you’re looking for some more high intensity, give their 3D class a try. They are also offering their amazing playlists to transform your home and workspace into your own yoga studio!
4.Yoga Tree
Several Yoga Tree Studios spread throughout Toronto are offering two free live streamed yoga classes on Instagram every day. Choose from a morning class or an evening class. Perfect for early risers or night owls! Definitely give their power flow class a try as it’s easily one of my favourites. Check out their IGTV page as they have several yoga flows to try at your convenience.
5.Surf The Greats
If you’re looking to completely switch up your workout or yoga routine, Surf The Greats, a Toronto based surf shop is offering two free online yoga classes every week. Be prepared to test your balance skills and experience a different type of yoga flow as you will be led through a fantastic class, focusing on surfing techniques and mobility throughout. My all time favourite class. Available to livestream online via Zoom every Wednesday and Saturday morning at 10:30 AM.
BONUS: Ryerson University
Ryerson Recreation is also offering free online workout classes. Tune in to their Instagram page for live streamed and IGTV posts. I personally love their two yoga classes offered: Vinyasa and Hatha. Definitely worth tuning into, especially showing our own campus some support. Check out their website here to view all of their scheduled live streamed and on demand classes!
So check out any of these amazing free Toronto-based yoga classes. Perfect for any level and completely free to tune in at any time. Your body and mind will thank you for it. Keep yourself healthy. Make an effort to move your body somehow every day, eat nourishing food, and get some fresh air and vitamin D when you can. Stay safe, sane, and sanitized!
