Welcome to Just Breathe Yoga. We are located in Chatham, Ontario at 317 Grand Ave West. Scroll through our website for class, descriptions and staff bios. Click the button below to create your client profile, view schedule, book your classes and purchase your packages online.
Discount codes to use at check out
- Yogis (60 and up) - save 20% off all class packs: Use code: 60+
- Student - save 20% off all class packs: Use code: STUDENT20
- First time Yogi - $5 first class: Use code: ONETIME
Classes
Sunrise Yoga
This morning all levels flow begins with gentle movement to wake up the body after the night's rest. We will then build some heat into the practice, energizing for the day to come. A focus on the breath to bring steadiness and ease to poses will leave you feeling both grounded and energized, ready to start your day with gratitude.
Lunch Time Reset
This 40-minute class is ideal for those with limited time. Join us to reconnect with your breath on the mat, where you can experience relaxation, release, and rejuvenation. We offer a balanced combination of accessible yoga flow, Yin or Restorative yoga poses, and functional movement, making this class suitable for all levels. Mindful movement and alignment take center stage, providing valuable support for beginners. Additionally, we may incorporate props such as yoga blocks, straps, or bolsters during the class. It's the perfect opportunity to re-energize in the midst of your day!
Chair Yoga- Movement that Matters
This class seamlessly integrates functional movement with a variety of yoga poses, and incorporates a range of props such as chairs, yoga straps, and more to enhance accessibility and enjoyment. Our chair yoga classes are dynamic, enjoyable, and require no prior yoga experience. Each class is thoughtfully designed to offer a unique experience—whether it's focused on improving flexibility and mobility, building balance, or developing strength. Some classes may be entirely seated, while others may include a few standing poses using the chair for support, and even a final stretch and resting pose on your mat. We invite you to try a class; we're confident you'll love it!
Baby and Me Yoga
Baby and Me Yoga is an hour-long interactive vinyasa yoga class specially crafted to help you rebuild and restore strength that may have been lost during pregnancy. We consider the anatomical and physiological changes experienced during pregnancy and mindfully target those areas, enabling you to regain strength and balance.
In addition to its focus on physical well-being, this class also emphasizes community building, providing an opportunity to connect with others who are embarking on the journey of new parenthood.
Our unique approach involves integrating your baby into the yoga experience. Although your baby won't be doing yoga poses, you'll engage with them as you gracefully flow through poses. Furthermore, some poses involve lifting and holding your baby, helping you build muscle strength. This creates a wonderful and impactful bonding experience for both you and your baby.
Restorative Yoga
Restorative Yoga is a practice that focuses on promoting deep relaxation, both physically and mentally. In this class, all poses are performed in a seated or lying position on your mat, with the body fully supported by a variety of props such as yoga bolsters, blocks, straps, and blankets. The class typically consists of 5 to 8 different poses, each held for several minutes to allow for profound rest and rejuvenation.
Throughout the practice, you'll be encouraged to engage in mindful breathing and accompanied by soothing music, creating a serene environment. This combination helps to reduce stress levels and activate your parasympathetic nervous system, responsible for the body's rest and digestion response. By doing so, you can invite a sense of calm to both your mind and body.
Restorative Yoga is a class that welcomes individuals of all levels of experience. No prior knowledge or expertise is required to participate. So, whether you're a beginner or a seasoned practitioner, this class is open to everyone, providing an opportunity to unwind and restore balance in your life.
All levels Gentle Flow
Indulge in a soothing and rejuvenating experience at the end of your week with our all-levels gentle flow. Designed to nourish both your mind and soul, this class offers a gentle and accessible practice. We'll focus on slower movements and longer holds, allowing you to delve deeper within your body and cultivate a sense of inner calm.
This class is especially well-suited for beginners and those seeking a slower, nurturing practice. Whether you're new to yoga or simply prefer a more gentle approach, this class will provide the perfect opportunity to unwind and recharge. Join us as we guide you through a nourishing practice that promotes relaxation and inner well-being.
All Levels Flow
Join us for an invigorating and dynamic Vinyasa Flow class suitable for all levels. In this class, we'll focus on synchronizing breath with movement, allowing you to tap into your inner strength, energy, and flexibility. With each flowing sequence, you'll cultivate a deeper connection between your breath and mindful movement.
Our instructors bring their unique styles and energies to the class, creating a diverse and inspiring experience. We encourage you to explore the teachings of each instructor and discover the different flavors they bring to the practice. Trying out various instructors will provide you with a well-rounded and enriching yoga journey.
Whether you're a beginner or an experienced practitioner, this all-level Vinyasa Flow class offers an opportunity to awaken your body, mind, and spirit. Come and experience the transformative power of breath and movement in a supportive and energetic environment.
Breathe FIT
Get ready for a more intense workout experience compared to our Yogalaties class with Breathe FIT. This dynamic class will be led by our certified coach, Heather, rather than a yoga teacher. In each session, Heather will focus on two separate body parts, helping you build strength and muscle through movement while emphasizing the importance of mindful breathing.
To keep your energy up, Heather will curate an invigorating playlist that'll keep you motivated throughout the class. Expect a fun and slightly challenging session. We encourage everyone to work at their own pace, and Heather will offer modifications as needed.
Prenatal Yoga
We extend a warm invitation for you to join our prenatal yoga practice, designed specifically for expecting mothers. No previous experience is necessary, as all levels are welcome to partake in the numerous benefits this practice offers.
In our classes, we emphasize the harmonization of breath work with gentle movements, allowing you to strengthen and tone your body in a nurturing way. You'll learn a variety of poses that can be beneficial during labor, as well as positions that help alleviate common discomforts experienced throughout pregnancy.
These classes serve as a beautiful complement to your childbirth education, further enhancing your focus and mindfulness during the birthing process. By engaging in prenatal yoga, you'll deepen your connection with your body and your growing baby, fostering a sense of calm and empowerment.
We invite you to join our supportive community of expecting mothers and embark on this transformative journey together. Lisa will guide you through each class, ensuring a safe and enriching experience for all.
Pilates
Discover and embrace the fundamental principles of Pilates through mindful movement in our mat Pilates class. Experience a comprehensive full-body workout emphasizing strength, stability, and flexibility. Through precise and controlled movements, we target the core, legs, arms, and glutes. After this class, you'll feel prepared to take on whatever challenges life throws your way! Join us for an invigorating workout and leave feeling fantastic in body, booty, and mind!
Warm Yoga Flow
Vibrant, active, and energizing! Revitalize and strengthen your body with a dynamic yoga flow class in a comfortably warm room (81-86 degrees F). Join us for a challenging session that combines pranayama techniques with a fulfilling flow practice, promoting internal cleansing. Arrive well-hydrated, bring your water bottle, and get ready to sweat, stretch, and smile.
Breathe HIIT
Breathe HIIT is a dynamic, fast-paced class that seamlessly combines yoga with high-intensity interval training (HIIT). Experience the stress and anxiety-reducing advantages of yoga, paired with the strength and cardio benefits of HIIT. Enhance your balance and core strength for an enriched asana (physical) yoga practice.
Chair FIT
Introducing Chair Yoga 2.0, tailored for our dedicated attendees. While maintaining the beloved balance and coordination elements, this upgraded class places a stronger emphasis on building strength. Expect less seated time as we incorporate plank, downdog, squat variations, and chair-assisted sun salutations. Strengthening tools like weights and resistance bands will be integrated, utilizing yoga mats for standing or seated poses. Each session presents a unique focus and challenges. Elevate your chair yoga experience with added depth—this class is designed for enthusiasts seeking more.
Staff Members
Jessica Letourneau
Yoga Teacher
Jessica Letourneau is a certified yoga teacher (RYT-200). She has been teaching for last 8 years in Chatham, ON. Jessica’s style of teaching is thoughtful, but also fun and inclusive. Each class is designed specifically for the audience. You’ll leave feeling refreshed and ready to take on the rest of your day.
Shanna New
Yoga Teacher
Shanna studied under Dianne Bondy's 'Yoga For All' teacher training program in Essex County, Ontario completing her 200 hour RYT certification in July 2019 and is a member of Yoga Alliance. Shanna has taught Yin Yoga, Restorative Yoga, beginner yoga flow and Chair Yoga. Shanna believes yoga is a practice to be enjoyed by everyone - every body, every size, every shape and every age!
Shanna blends functional movement with yoga poses and uses a variety of props in her classes (chairs, yoga straps, etc) to ensure her classes are accessible and enjoyable. Shanna recently started a YouTube channel called Easy To Love Yoga which samples some of her classes.
Lisa Uher
Prenatal Yoga Teacher
Lisa Uher works in the field of Children’s Mental Health and holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and has a Bachelor of Social Work. She has worked in both Child Protection and Mental Health for the past 29 years. The practices of Mindfulness / Meditation and Yoga have become an integral part of her life and journey of personal growth. Lisa has created a strong daily practice incorporating mindful movement and meditation.
Lisa’s desire to learn and share what she has embraced in her own life is of great importance to her. She holds certificates from the University of Toronto in Mindfulness Based Chronic Pain/Stress Management as well Certificates in Foundations of Applied Mindfulness Meditation and Applied Specialization in Mindfulness Meditation. She holds advanced certification in Yoga with specialization in Trauma Informed Yoga, Therapeutic Yoga Specialist Certification having earned her RYT 500. Lisa is also a faculty member at Neuro Nova Center for Mindfulness Solutions in Toronto.
Lisa’s yoga classes are trauma informed & gentle in nature with an interweaving of creative sequencing, a spirit of self-worth, playfulness and a dose of inspiration for daily life through mindfulness practices. Lisa believes in providing a safer and nurturing environment to all students whether through Mindfulness or yoga. Lisa holds a strong belief in helping others’ thrive in life by nurturing their mind, body through honouring and meeting people where they are at in their personal journey.
As Lisa has realized the life changing benefits and personal growth awarded to her through Mindfulness and meditation she has been honoured to share this in her daily work in Children’s Mental Health, and a variety of community programs including Hospsice programs and prenatal with expectant parents. Lisa is passionate about prenatal care with expectant parents through Mother Nurture Childbirth Support Services in collaboration with Just Breathe Yoga studio.
Shani Cobb
Yoga Teacher
Meet Shani, Shani took her first ever yoga class in 2007 and was hooked. As a very active teenager, she was looking for some balance to stretch and strengthen her muscles to prevent injury. As she took more classes and became more interested in this practice, she began to learn that it has so much more to offer than simply the physical benefits! In 2011, she took her 200 hr Yoga Teacher Training at Heaven on Earth Yoga & Integrated Health in Stoney Creek Ontario. She has attended multiple workshops and courses over the years to strengthen her practice and teaching. As a primary school teacher, she has woven mindfulness and yoga into her classroom teaching each day and continues to love bringing this life changing practice to people of all ages. Her classes are Hatha based with a focus on alignment and she always provides multiple modifications and pose options to ensure everyone is getting the most out of their practice. She can’t wait to see you on your mat!
Erin Davis
Yoga Teacher
Erin’s passion for yoga began over 15 years ago when she took her first yoga class here in Chatham-Kent. She completed her yoga teacher training 10 years ago at Heaven on Earth & Integrated Health in Hamilton Ontario. She is also trained in prenatal and restorative yoga. Her yoga classes can be described as playful and alignment based. Over the past ten years she has had the opportunity to teach all over the province including London, Guelph and Sudbury. Erin is also a registered Midwife delivering babies all over CK. When not on her mat or delivering babies Erin is spending time with her four boys; Her husband Greg, two sons Leo and Andy, and rescue pup Storms
Heather Allen
Fitness coach
Heather is a nurse by day and personal fitness coach by night (and also very early most mornings ♥️)
Her passion for health and fitness has been a part of her life for the last 35 years. She started out as an aerobics instructor and has moved her way up to personal training. Heather teaches fitness in groups as well as one on one. She is excited to continue her love for health and wellness with the Just Breathe team, supporting our community to meet their fitness goals. Heather loves helping others and encouraging them to improve their quality of life. Join heather in the studio to experience her unique fusion of fitness and yoga.
Stephanie Evans
Yoga Teacher
Hello, and welcome yogi’s!
Beginner, intermediate, or advanced.
My name is Stephanie Evans. I was introduced to yoga over 15 years ago on the advice of a professional to ‘slow down”.
Albeit challenging at first, I was able to let my emotions subside, and allow my physical body adapt to my mind. A true evaluation of body, mind, and spirit…… ( yoga in a nut shell). I am proud to say my certification was completed here in Chatham, at Shakti Yoga, ( 2012), with the amazing guidance and support of Collette Beneteau, a very well respected and knowable instructor. I was given the ability to explore, create, and implicate my own unique way of instructing. Hence, offering a “power up’, or CHIKARA yoga class to just breathe. This class will offer extra or advanced poses, to accommodate yogi’s seeking a more advanced pace yoga sequence. Attention to form will be monitored and modifications will be provided. If you are seeking a challenge, or change in your routine, I highly suggest giving this class a try. As an athlete that has fallen to injuries along the journey, I can attest, yoga has been able to facilitate and help with my rehab progression. Having the consistency, the ability to adapt, and realistic goals, has lead to my success thus far, both personally, and professionally. I look forward to meeting you in person, and allowing YOU to BE on your mat.
Yoga is a personal journey. CHIKARA will offer you challenges, inspiration, and personal rewards.
Come as you are.
Nameste
Sue Wammes
Yoga Teacher
Yoga arrived unexpectedly into my fitness teaching world in 2012 with a job fulfillment to become certified in YogaFit – a style that combined fitness and yoga, which was a perfect way to complement my half marathon trainings.
A short 5 years later I was encouraged to obtain my 200 CYT where I discovered there were many forms of yoga to practice, and I fell in love with a particular style called Restorative.
In my previous world as a personal trainer, I always focused on doing more, training harder in the gym or group exercise classes, rarely taking a day off and wondering why my results were meagre. On top of that, my mind would never shut off (or at least slow down a notch) and my ability to fall asleep (or stay asleep) kept diminishing as the weeks went on. I was becoming someone I did not want to be.
During my first restorative class I fell asleep. At the end of class I was embarrassed and wasn’t considering on returning. Instead, the instructor was supportive and encouraging in saying that it’s okay to let yourself rest when you need to recuperate – an idea that was so profoundly simple and yet I had never even considered it before.
Life in the 21 st century is inherently stressful between the demands of our jobs and the overwhelm of digital information coming at us from our fingertips. We spend too much time immersed in stressors that our body interprets as threats to our safety. Therefore, our “fight and flight” nervous system is left turned on long after the danger, real or perceived, has passed. Without intervention, heightened stress levels can lead to serious long-term diseases and ill-health conditions. This is where restorative yoga can help and why I enjoy teaching the skill of relaxation to others. Using props, stillness, and breath to guide ourselves into a calmer state helps to trigger our “rest and digest” nervous system and promote a practice of relaxation and healing.
So, if you may be new to yoga, cannot stay still or sleep well, drives hard either physically or mentally, then I welcome you to experience this powerful class. For the category who are more experienced, I also welcome you to deepen
your practice with self-compassion skills while feeling more balance between motion and stillness.
Can’t wait for you to join me on the mat.
Namaste,
Sue
Erin Holland
Yoga Teacher
My yoga journey began in 2004 when I initially sought a way to engage in physical exercise. However, it soon evolved into a profound source of solace and self-awareness. The sheer simplicity of focusing on my breath amazed me as it guided me towards transformative experiences. Even after 15 years, I continue to delve into the vast depths of this ancient 5,000-year-old practice. Yoga has gifted me with insights into the world, aided in harmonizing my role as a mother, facilitated the processing of childhood traumas, nurtured a deep connection with my body, and invigorated my zest for life.
In 2010, I embarked on a 350-hour yoga teacher training in Toronto, a decision that has shaped my journey. After the birth of my first son, I furthered my training by completing prenatal yoga teacher training in 2012. The profound healing potential of yoga across multiple dimensions has captivated me. Expanding my knowledge, in 2017, I obtained a certificate in Yoga, Mindfulness, Neuroscience, Psychology & the Body from New York. I will forever embrace the role of a dedicated student on this lifelong path of yoga.
Shanti – Peace!
Amanda Almeida
Yoga / Pilates Teacher
Kia ora! My name is Amanda Almeida, and I recently returned to my hometown of Chatham after a decade abroad. Exploring nature, connecting with others, and personal growth are my sources of happiness.
With a deep passion for learning and teaching, I pursued a BA(H) in Drama in Education with a minor in Psychology and English back in 2012, which propelled me into a fulfilling career as a Secondary School Teacher. Additionally, I obtained Additional Qualifications to teach Health and Physical Education, aligning with my focus on movement and well-being.
In 2017, a serious back injury introduced me to the transformative power of Yoga & Pilates. For me, these practices offer distinct benefits: Yoga cultivates self-connection, while Pilates builds strength. I have undergone training in Hatha Yoga, Vinyasa Yoga, and STOTT Pilates.
I'm thrilled to share my knowledge with you, fostering mutual learning and growth both on and off the mat. Let's embark on this journey together!
Nicole Lucier
Yoga Teacher
Hello! I started practicing yoga in 2001 and instantly fell in love with its physical and mental health benefits. The practice sparked a curiosity about the mind-body-spirit connection, our body's innate wisdom, and the healing power of breath. In 2021, I completed the 200-hour Yoga Teacher training under the guidance of Gina Wasserlein Peto.
Inspired to delve deeper into the healing aspects of yoga, I pursued a certification in Sensory Enhanced Yoga for Self-Regulation and Trauma Healing in 2022. Recently, I also completed a Mindfulness for Trauma course through Wilfred Laurier University. I firmly believe that yoga is for everyone, as it supports a calm body, clear mind, uplifted spirit, and empowered sense of being.
It is an honour to partner with you on this journey towards discovering our true nature and finding real peace, both on and off the mat.
Jen Strub
Yoga Teacher
Hi I’m Jen Strub. My yoga journey started from the inside out, spiritual to the physical side almost 20 years ago. Wow!
Starting yoga in my late 30s I found yoga to be challenging for my so inflexible body but something kept pulling me back. While on a retreat to Kripalu over 10 years ago I attended a Yin Practice and I was hooked.
After struggling with so many teachers/classes, and just not finding my right fit I decided to solve my own challenges and get my 200-hour yoga teacher training. I followed this up with 50-hr Certifications in Yin & Meditation with Bernie Clark in Vancouver, Chair Yoga, Yoga for Everybody with Dianne Bondy and Yoga Nidra to enhance the practice to better serve all those who show up for themselves.
My practices are great for all levels combining poses with props and modifications for all levels especially beginners in a non-judgmental environment that leaves no one behind!
Angela Makra
Yoga Teacher
Angela embarked on her yoga journey in 2012, seeking to complement her running. Yoga swiftly integrated itself into her daily life. Initially enticed by its physical rewards, Angela remains captivated by this aspect. With time, her practice matured, fostering a profound understanding of yoga's multifaceted advantages. Angela now weaves pranayama and meditation into her classes, emphasizing equilibrium between stability and comfort while uniting the body, mind, and spirit.
Rosanne McCollum
Yoga Teacher
Rosanne McCollum has been passionately studying and teaching yoga for over 25 years. A native of Chatham, Rosanne has just returned from decades of teaching in Toronto and she's eager to spread the love.
After receiving Yoga Teacher Certification in 2004 through Kripalu Yoga, Rosanne continued to study with greats such as Yogi Vishvketu and Sri Dharma Mitra. She has recieved initiation into Sant Mat and Kriya meditation, as well as learned many kundalini techniques.
Over the years Rosanne has taught yoga to groups and individuals in many settings and has experience with people from all walks of life. Rosanne was the co owner and director of Brahmananda Yoga Centre in Toronto, featured in the yoga magazine Ascent in 2007. She taught for years at the Village Healing Centre and Yoga Village in Toronto.
In 2011 Rosanne became a Certified Personal Trainer Specialist through CanFitPro.
In 2012 Rosanne was honored to be on Moses Znaimer's ideacity stage after the media blitz about Yogabiebs, where she taught yoga to the music of Justin Bieber.
There are a great variety of yoga practices from many schools and traditions, and when it comes to which poses to use in what sequence, she likes to play the field. Her classes are tuned to the needs of the group in the moment, but tend to be vigorous fearless and playful.
Crona Airgid
Yoga Teacher
I am Crona, a passionate advocate for health and a mental wellness therapist with 24 years of experience. I am on a mission to guide individuals towards holistic well-being, and my deep commitment to wellness has led me to integrate yoga into my practice, creating a truly transformative experience. From conducting individual, and couples therapy sessions to leading therapy groups, and co-facilitating life-changing women's retreats in scenic locations like Huntsville, Muskoka, and Belle River, I've expanded my approach to wellness in diverse ways. My personal yoga journey, which began years ago, revealed its profound impact on my well-being. Recognizing the importance of integrating body
movement as part of wellness, I recently completed my 200hr yoga teacher training. I am thrilled to introduce yoga as a powerful tool for healing trauma, weaving therapy into yoga practices to offer a
holistic approach that nurtures the mind, body, and spirit.
I am honoured to join the Just Breathe team—a community dedicated to promoting well-being through holistic practices. Join me in class and experience a skillful integration of therapeutic elements woven into the yoga class to support you on your journey to wholeness.
Namaste
Lisa Northcott
Yoga Teacher
I attended my first yoga class over 12 years ago, seeking relief from a long-distance running injury. A friend suggested yoga, and it not only aided my recovery but also revealed its positive impact on my physical and mental well-being. In 2023, I pursued Yoga Teacher training to deepen my understanding and integrate yoga further into my lifestyle. Now, as a teacher at Just Breathe, I am thrilled to guide others in discovering the physical and mental benefits of yoga.
Bren Birkin
Pilates Teacher
Brenna is a certified Pilates mat and reformer teacher with over seven years of teaching experience. Brenna designs her classes to be approachable for all levels, and provides options to modify and challenge yourself.
In addition to teaching Pilates, Brenna works in the public relations and communications field and spends her free time going on outdoor adventures, hanging out with her dog Milo, and cooking for family and friends.
Morgan Stallaert
Yoga Teacher
I began practicing yoga five years ago, forging a profound connection with my mind, body, and spirit. In 2021, I obtained my certification in hatha and vinyasa yoga with the intention of enriching my self-practice. It became clear that I wanted to extend the joy of yoga and movement to others. I aspire to make positive impacts on people through connection and shared practice.
Steve Bottrill
Fitness Coach
For over two decades, I've devoted myself to the fitness industry, focusing on empowering seniors and individuals overcoming challenges. My personal journey of recovery from a car accident ignited my passion for exercise, driving me to share this transformative knowledge. Now, I'm on a mission to inspire others and guide them toward experiencing the remarkable benefits of fitness.
Justin Elliott
Owner | Yoga teacher
Meet Justin! He is the dream and the literal hands working on this beautiful studio. Tradesperson by day (and night) and yogi at heart. Justin was born and raised in Chatham and runs a local heating and cooling business here. When envisioning Just Breathe Yoga Studio he wanted to create a space in Chatham where all bodies could come and move together.
If you see Justin around the studio, just ask him about the two way fireplace and the in floor heating! He'll be excited to tell you every detail!
Jennifer Kobylka
Owner /Manager
Known for never saying no to an adventure, Jenn was immediately on board when Justin had the idea of opening a new yoga studio in their community. Her love for yoga practice has only deepened since she first hit the mat over 10 years ago, and she loves supporting new yogis in their own practice when they arrive for their first class at Just Breathe Yoga. Jenn wants to ensure that everyone who walks through our doors is met with a safe, welcoming environment and a big smile.
When Jenn isn’t overseeing the Just Breathe Yoga operations or practicing her own down dog, she spends her time as a registered nurse and raising two young children Ellie and Max.