As social distancing becomes more and more important in the fight against the global COVID-19 pandemic, the Flourish Vitality Centre has found a way to bring online yoga to your living room.
The brick and mortar studio at 11 Victoria St. has a calming view of Centennial Beach and Kempenfelt Bay, but these days, the building sits empty as the usual gatherings for yoga classes represents a virus-sharing risk.
“We typically have 10 to 15 people for some classes, but even that is something we can’t do in this current situation,” said Flourish owner Joanne Lougheed. “It is really different not being able to have a live class in front of us, but like everyone else, we have found a way to adapt.”
Flourish is offering online yoga classes through Facebook Live and Zoom for anyone looking to stay active while cooped up indoors. Classes offered are traditional Hatha and Gentle Hatha, Restorative and Flow, plus classes based on functional movement, classes with weights, and classes that combine yoga with cardio.
“It’s always been our mission to offer yoga to people with different abilities, that hasn’t changed,” said Lougheed. “We’ve embraced technology as a way to continue to connect with our community, and make new friends. Moving online gives us the opportunity to reach even more people.”
Lougheed is enjoying the online presence as it allows her to bring yoga to people who normally wouldn't be able to participate.
“I have a real passion for health through yoga and getting it to people who, for whatever reason, wouldn’t be able to get to our studio,” said Lougheed. “There are also people who don’t necessarily have physical limitations but feel shy about stepping out. Now, they can get to where they feel better from their own home, and maybe can join us live when this (health crisis) is over.”
An unlimited monthly subscription allows members to easily join live sessions but also watch recorded videos on demand. Flourish is also offering personal private classes accessible through Zoom.
To sign up or get more information, contact Flourish through their website here.
