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Courses & Events

Upcoming Schedule

Beginner-friendly
Beginner-friendly
  • IN-STUDIO Singing for Peace

    with Anna
    Details
    There is no fee for this community event but space is limited, so please register if you plan on attending.

    For generations, humans have turned to song as a source of community, wellness and joy. Especially in times of deep grief, fear and uncertainty, singing together can nourish the soul providing a safe space to express emotions while discovering hope and solidarity in a shared community. These free, community-oriented sessions will provide an opportunity to learn and sing heartfelt and hopeful songs from resistance communities of many times and places. These simple, yet powerful songs can draw us into spaces of reflection and spur us towards action. Willing participants of all abilities, ages, and backgrounds are welcome! No formal musical or singing abilities are necessary - this is not a choir, and there's no performance.

    Sessions will be facilitated by The Branches member and local music educator Anna Janecek. Anna (she/her) is passionate about creating empowering music-making opportunities with people of all ages and abilities. With music degrees from both the University of Waterloo and the University of Toronto, her background is in voice, piano, choral conducting and music education. Her experiences working with both adults and children include community and church-based choirs, educational settings and musical theatre. She is thrilled to collaborate with The Branches to combine music, community and social justice awareness in this special space.

    Format: This workshop will take place IN-STUDIO only.
    Sun, Apr 12
    4:00 PM – 5:00 PM
  • IN-STUDIO Handstand Playshop

    with Carin
    Details

    $28+hst Standard Rate | $35+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)

    Do you want to try kicking up into handstand but are not sure where to start? Or are you curious about how to build the strength and balance to move your handstand further away from the wall? This workshop will give you time and space to explore the world of being upside down. We will look at the foundation for handstands: how to align wrists, forearms, and fingers. We will practice strength-building exercises for the arms, shoulders, and core. You’ll leave with lots to practice in order to build endurance and balance over time. Excellent for students with a current handstand practice and for students new to the art of inversions.

    4+ months of previous yoga experience recommended. Not an appropriate course for beginners or for students with major wrist issues or injuries.

    This workshop will take place IN-STUDIO only.

    Sat, Apr 18
    2:00 PM – 3:15 PM
  • IN-STUDIO Connected Birth Prep: Tools & Trust for You and Your Support Person

    with Lisa
    Details
    3 Hour workshop with Lisa Beraldo and Weronika Walker

    Rates are 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, labor, and birth in this workshop designed for pregnant people and their birth partners. The presence and active support of a dedicated partner or support person can make a profound difference during labor and delivery. Together, you’ll deepen your trust and awareness of each other while building a toolkit of practical strategies to enhance comfort and confidence throughout the entire birthing process.


    In this workshop, you will learn:

    • Coping techniques using movement, yoga postures, and breathing exercises to ease pain and discomfort during pregnancy and labor, with clear guidance for birth partners on how to assist.
    • Partner-supported strategies for position changes, pressure and counter-pressure, and hands-on techniques using props to bring relief during all stages of labor—early, active, transition, and pushing phases.
    • Empowering education on induction and epidural options, natural induction methods, and non-pharmaceutical pain management techniques.
    • Guided meditation, progressive relaxation, and restorative yoga to support relaxation in pregnancy and birth.

    This workshop welcomes all couples or birth partners—whether romantic partners, family members, or close friends. The Branches is a 2SLGBTQ+ affirming, anti-racist, and size-inclusive space. Pregnant people at any stage are welcome, and no previous yoga experience is necessary.

    Logistics: The in-person workshop takes place in our 3rd-floor studio (no elevator); an online option is available for greater accessibility. Space is limited to 10 pairs—please register early to secure your spot. Workshop registration includes access to the video recording for review and handouts.

    Meet Your Instructors:
    Lisa Beraldo (she/her) leads The Branches’ pre- and postnatal programming. Lisa discovered the power of yoga during her own pregnancy and holds a BA in Child and Youth Counseling and Family Work. She completed her 250-hour Yoga Teacher Training in 2020, Restorative Yoga Teacher Training in 2023, and Prenatal Yoga Teacher Training with the Prenatal Yoga Center in late 2023. When not teaching, Lisa enjoys hiking, camping, canoeing, and spending time with her partner and three children.

    Weronika Walker (she/her) is a birth and postpartum doula, outdoor guide, and former paramedic and firefighter. Through Fern & Nettle Doula Services, she offers compassionate, inclusive 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. Outside of work, she loves outdoor adventures, reading, and foraging 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.
    Sun, Apr 19
    1:30 PM – 4:30 PM
  • IN-STUDIO Rainbow Restorative Yoga (2SLGBTQIA+ exclusive space)

    with Ang
    Details
    $32+hst Community Supporter | $20+hst Standard Rate | $8+hst Subsidized Rate
     
    Rainbow Restorative Yoga is an affinity space for 2SLGBTQIA+ community to land and find rest together. Restorative yoga is a practice of resting in comfortable, supported poses with props such as bolsters and blankets. These shapes can help the body, mind, and breath to calm and relax. Led by a queer-identified teacher, this class is an opportunity for slowing down, deep rejuvenation, and self-care.

    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.

    Format: This workshop will take place IN-STUDIO only.
    Sun, Apr 19
    5:00 PM – 6:30 PM
  • KPL Yoga

    with Carin
    Details
    Thu, Apr 30 – Thu, Jun 4
    7:00 PM – 8:00 PM
  • IN-STUDIO Push-Ups, Made Possible

    with Nicole
    Details

    $50+hst Standard Rate | $65+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)

    2-hour workshop with Nicole DeNoble

    The push-up is often called the "ultimate" bodyweight exercise, but it’s also one of the most misunderstood. It’s more than just an arm workout; it’s a dynamic, moving plank that requires the entire body to work in harmony. From pushing open a heavy door to building the upper-body strength needed to get back up off the floor with ease, the push-up is a foundational skill.

    Many people feel stuck or intimidated by push-ups, often thinking they "just aren't strong enough." In this workshop, Nicole will demystify this movement by breaking it down into its core components. We will explore scaling push-ups down and up—learning how to use inclines, benches, and tempo to meet your body where it is today while building a clear path toward a floor-based push-up.

    In this 2-hour workshop, you’ll:

    • Learn simplified anatomy: Understand the relationship between your chest, triceps, and "pushing" mechanics, and why your core is the secret to a better push-up.
    • Master the setup: Find your ideal hand placement and learn how to take care of your wrists.
    • Explore Inclines: Practice variations using wall, bench, and knee support to find the right level of challenge for your current strength.
    • Build scapular movement: Practice drills to improve shoulder blade mobility and stability—the "foundation" your push-up is built on.
    • Develop a progression plan: Learn how to use eccentric (lowering) movements and volume to steadily increase your repetitions.

    Whether you are working toward your very first full push-up or you want to refine your technique to handle more volume, this workshop provides a supportive, light-hearted space to build upper-body confidence and feel the strength of your own frame.

    About Nicole DeNoble:
    Nicole is an empowering and down-to-earth instructor known for her practical, light-hearted approach. Combining years of experience in anatomy, yoga, and strength training, she breaks down complex movements into clear, accessible steps for all bodies and learning styles. As the creator of the Strength Essentials program at The Branches, Nicole has helped dozens of beginners move confidently with barbells and build strength they feel in everyday life.

    Format: This workshop will take place IN-STUDIO only.
    Sat, May 2
    2:00 PM – 4:15 PM
  • IN-STUDIO Mother's Day Candlelit Restorative Yoga

    with Wendy
    Details

    $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)

    Calling all mothers and those who tirelessly nurture and support others: this special class is a chance for YOU to be nurtured and supported. Our Candle Restorative class is an opportunity for slowing down, deep rejuvenation, and self-care. Restorative yoga is a practice of resting in comfortable, supported poses with props such as bolsters and blankets. These shapes can help the body, mind, and breath to calm and relax.
     
    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.
    Sun, May 10
    3:00 PM – 4:30 PM
  • IN-STUDIO Singing for Peace

    with Anna
    Details
    There is no fee for this community event but space is limited, so please register if you plan on attending.

    For generations, humans have turned to song as a source of community, wellness and joy. Especially in times of deep grief, fear and uncertainty, singing together can nourish the soul providing a safe space to express emotions while discovering hope and solidarity in a shared community. These free, community-oriented sessions will provide an opportunity to learn and sing heartfelt and hopeful songs from resistance communities of many times and places. These simple, yet powerful songs can draw us into spaces of reflection and spur us towards action. Willing participants of all abilities, ages, and backgrounds are welcome! No formal musical or singing abilities are necessary - this is not a choir, and there's no performance.

    Sessions will be facilitated by The Branches member and local music educator Anna Janecek. Anna (she/her) is passionate about creating empowering music-making opportunities with people of all ages and abilities. With music degrees from both the University of Waterloo and the University of Toronto, her background is in voice, piano, choral conducting and music education. Her experiences working with both adults and children include community and church-based choirs, educational settings and musical theatre. She is thrilled to collaborate with The Branches to combine music, community and social justice awareness in this special space.

    Format: This workshop will take place IN-STUDIO only.
    Sun, May 10
    5:00 PM – 6:00 PM
  • IN-STUDIO Rainbow Restorative Yoga (2SLGBTQIA+ exclusive space)

    with Meg
    Details
    $32+hst Community Supporter | $20+hst Standard Rate | $8+hst Subsidized Rate
     
    Rainbow Restorative Yoga is an affinity space for 2SLGBTQIA+ community to land and find rest together. Restorative yoga is a practice of resting in comfortable, supported poses with props such as bolsters and blankets. These shapes can help the body, mind, and breath to calm and relax. Led by a queer-identified teacher, this class is an opportunity for slowing down, deep rejuvenation, and self-care.

    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.

    Format: This workshop will take place IN-STUDIO only.
    Sun, May 31
    2:00 PM – 3:30 PM
Beginner-friendly
Beginner-friendly
  • VIRTUAL Connected Birth Prep: Tools & Trust for You and Your Support Person

    with Lisa
    Details
    3 Hour workshop with Lisa Beraldo and Weronika Walker

    Rates are 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, labor, and birth in this workshop designed for pregnant people and their birth partners. The presence and active support of a dedicated partner or support person can make a profound difference during labor and delivery. Together, you’ll deepen your trust and awareness of each other while building a toolkit of practical strategies to enhance comfort and confidence throughout the entire birthing process.


    In this workshop, you will learn:

    • Coping techniques using movement, yoga postures, and breathing exercises to ease pain and discomfort during pregnancy and labor, with clear guidance for birth partners on how to assist.
    • Partner-supported strategies for position changes, pressure and counter-pressure, and hands-on techniques using props to bring relief during all stages of labor—early, active, transition, and pushing phases.
    • Empowering education on induction and epidural options, natural induction methods, and non-pharmaceutical pain management techniques.
    • Guided meditation, progressive relaxation, and restorative yoga to support relaxation in pregnancy and birth.

    This workshop welcomes all couples or birth partners—whether romantic partners, family members, or close friends. The Branches is a 2SLGBTQ+ affirming, anti-racist, and size-inclusive space. Pregnant people at any stage are welcome, and no previous yoga experience is necessary.

    Logistics: The in-person workshop takes place in our 3rd-floor studio (no elevator); an online option is available for greater accessibility. Space is limited to 10 pairs—please register early to secure your spot. Workshop registration includes access to the video recording for review and handouts.

    Meet Your Instructors:
    Lisa Beraldo (she/her) leads The Branches’ pre- and postnatal programming. Lisa discovered the power of yoga during her own pregnancy and holds a BA in Child and Youth Counseling and Family Work. She completed her 250-hour Yoga Teacher Training in 2020, Restorative Yoga Teacher Training in 2023, and Prenatal Yoga Teacher Training with the Prenatal Yoga Center in late 2023. When not teaching, Lisa enjoys hiking, camping, canoeing, and spending time with her partner and three children.

    Weronika Walker (she/her) is a birth and postpartum doula, outdoor guide, and former paramedic and firefighter. Through Fern & Nettle Doula Services, she offers compassionate, inclusive 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. Outside of work, she loves outdoor adventures, reading, and foraging wild plants for food and medicine.

    Format: This workshop will be offered in a hybrid (virtual and in-person) format. By registering for the VIRTUAL option, you will attend via livestream in Zoom. If you prefer to attend in-person, please register for the IN-STUDIO listing.
    Sun, Apr 19
    1:30 PM – 4:30 PM
  • VIRTUAL Rainbow Restorative Yoga (2SLGBTQIA+ exclusive space)

    with Ang
    Details
    $32+hst Community Supporter | $20+hst Standard Rate | $8+hst Subsidized Rate
     
    Rainbow Restorative Yoga is an affinity space for 2SLGBTQIA+ community to land and find rest together. Restorative yoga is a practice of resting in comfortable, supported poses with props such as bolsters and blankets. These shapes can help the body, mind, and breath to calm and relax. Led by a queer-identified teacher, this class is an opportunity for slowing down, deep rejuvenation, and self-care.

    After the teacher’s fee, any additional proceeds from the class will be donated to SPECTRUM.

    Format: This workshop will be offered in a hybrid (virtual and in-person) format. By registering for the VIRTUAL option, you will attend via livestream in Zoom. If you prefer to attend in-person, please register for the IN-STUDIO listing.
    Sun, Apr 19
    5:00 PM – 6:30 PM
  • VIRTUAL Mother's Day Candlelit Restorative Yoga

    with Wendy
    Details

    $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)

    Calling all mothers and those who tirelessly nurture and support others: this special class is a chance for YOU to be nurtured and supported. Our Candle Restorative class is an opportunity for slowing down, deep rejuvenation, and self-care. Restorative yoga is a practice of resting in comfortable, supported poses with props such as bolsters and blankets. These shapes can help the body, mind, and breath to calm and relax.
     
    Format: This workshop will be offered in a hybrid (virtual and in-person) format. By registering for the VIRTUAL option, you will attend via livestream in Zoom. If you prefer to attend in-person, please register for the IN-STUDIO listing.
    Sun, May 10
    3:00 PM – 4:30 PM
  • VIRTUAL Rainbow Restorative Yoga (2SLGBTQIA+ exclusive space)

    with Meg
    Details
    $32+hst Community Supporter | $20+hst Standard Rate | $8+hst Subsidized Rate
     
    Rainbow Restorative Yoga is an affinity space for 2SLGBTQIA+ community to land and find rest together. Restorative yoga is a practice of resting in comfortable, supported poses with props such as bolsters and blankets. These shapes can help the body, mind, and breath to calm and relax. Led by a queer-identified teacher, this class is an opportunity for slowing down, deep rejuvenation, and self-care.

    After the teacher’s fee, any additional proceeds from the class will be donated to SPECTRUM.

    Format: This workshop will be offered in a hybrid (virtual and in-person) format. By registering for the VIRTUAL option, you will attend via livestream in Zoom. If you prefer to attend in-person, please register for the IN-STUDIO listing.
    Sun, May 31
    2:00 PM – 3:30 PM

What Students Are Saying About Our Courses

I learned helpful modifications for yoga poses. It felt like a safe space for people in larger bodies and our needs were met and understood. This course was a great introduction to The Branches yoga studio and I will be returning!

Re: Yoga for Round Bodies

Karina L

I learned how important feet and ankles are for balance, and I improved a lot. I went cross-country skiing last weekend, and felt I had better control and stability than I've had for years, and I think it is all about strengthening my feet and ankles and hips. I also really liked that there were many suggestions every week on how to build in these exercises into daily life. Linda is experienced at giving instructions... the clear verbal instructions were very important.

Re: Yoga for Dynamic Aging

Arli K

I gained a way to calm "The Sunday Nights." I would recommend this course to others. It was very relaxing, it made me take time to rejuvenate and calm myself before another busy week.

Re: Deep Relaxation: Stretching & Restorative Yoga

Jenn

I learned the importance of mobility and range of motion for my joints, strength, and yoga practice. I gained lots of new exercises to incorporate into my fitness schedule. I would absolutely recommend this course to others. Mobility seems to be an undervalued form of fitness and is very important.

Re: Beyond Flexbility: Upper Body Mobility

Tasha

I have taken many classes with Nadine, and I've learned at least one thing from each one, eg. acceptance of where I am at, physically and mentally, at that particular time. As an experienced teacher, Nadine is an excellent instructor, always encouraging us to trust our own reactions, while introducing elements that are new and challenging along with others that are familiar and comforting.

Re: Yoga for Mental Health

BH

I learned so much! Working through trauma takes time. The more work you do the more you will understand and grow. Trauma is helplessness trapped in the body. Loved this course. Thank you so much for offering it. The teacher was fabulous.

Re: Embodiment for Trauma Recovery

Anonymous

I liked the flexibility of in-person or virtual.

​​Very easy to follow along and educational.

Really appreciated being able to access the videos at a later date.

Specialty Yoga to Expand Your Practice


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.

ABOUT OUR WORKSHOP & COURSE FORMATS:

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.

Some of our past offerings:

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

Cancellation & Refund Policies

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.


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