JOEY HENDERSON
Owner | RYT-500 | Satya School of Yoga RYS
I walked into my first yoga class in 2005 in attempt to find peace and balance in my life. I was working in a high stress job as a women’s caseworker at a shelter for abused women & children, which I absolutely loved; however, each day was becoming an emotional struggle. As a result, my mental health began to decline. I felt distracted, disconnected, and like I was lacking a sense of purpose and peace in all aspects of my life. I was having difficulties making decisions and did not feel confident in the decisions I was making. I knew I needed to find my way back to myself, some way. I had heard many times that yoga was calming and overall beneficial for mental health, so pushed myself out of my comfort zone and signed up for my first 6 week session of Hatha Yoga.
Over a period of 5 years, I slowly started to notice little changes happening. Each week, after my yoga class, I left with a confident sense of who I was, felt a stronger sense of connection, and was so much more calm. I began to crave the why – but, why do I feel so GREAT every time I practice yoga – and my curiosity for yoga and yogic philosophy, became my passion.
Fast forward to 40/200 hours into my RYT200, my passion for self-growth quickly transformed to a passion of sharing yoga with others. I graduated from my YTT with Sheree Nicholson, of Brooklin, ON in September 2011. And as life would have it, due to a series of fortunate events, and the support and love of my family and friends, I purchased the studio and reopened it’s doors as the new owner, in January 2012.
Finding balance continues to challenge me from day to day on this roller coaster of life, but yoga helps me find my center on and off my mat. It reminds me that amongst all the chaos, I have the ability to pause, find stillness, and just breathe. My intention is to continue offering others in our community and beyond, a friendly, safe, non-judgemental, welcoming and warm atmosphere to practice and experience yoga.
I am a true believer that every mind/body can benefit from a consistent yoga practice, whether it’s gentle or vigorous, restorative or meditative. Yoga is and should be, adaptable for every body.
NAMASTE,
Joey Henderson
AMBER SLEEP
Certified Yoga Teacher + Thai Massage
I began my journey into the practice of yoga the age of 18 while attending the University of Ottawa, where I was working on completing a B.A. in History and Psychology. It was because of a close friend that I started to attend the Rama Lotus Center and really loving how I felt when I was in a yoga class. I would attend the occasional drop in class and lose myself in the room, it was the first time I actually became aware of the importance between the mind and body connection.
In my mid twenties I became pregnant with my daughter, and again yoga entered my life in the form of a prenatal practice. I wanted to do something for my body that was non-strenuous that kept me active. Shortly after I moved to Lindsay and was introduced to The Yoga Loft and immediately feel in love with the space and the teachers that were there. I always said to myself during this time that it would be truly amazing to be at the front of the room. I had wanted to be a teacher all of my life, it just did not unfold in the way I had imagined, but the desire to constantly learn and to be around other people was a top passion.
I worked all through my twenties for the bank and a medical company, specializing in procurement services, and never once did I feel truly fulfilled at my job. I began seeing a slip in my personal life zest and developed a struggle with anxiety that I was not able to shake. In February 2017 I decided to challenge myself and enroll in Joey’s 30 day yoga challenge. It was a revitalization of my passion for yoga and a reminder how the practice and philosophy of yoga can help gain some new life perspective. By the time May hit I decided that I truly was not happy, and to become me again would require a life overhaul. It was then and there that I looked at and thought about the question of, what do I want out of my life? When do I feel the most like myself. The answer was when I’m teaching and when I’m in a yoga class.
In October of 2017 I packed my bags and headed to British Columbia and the Island of Texada, where under Daniel Clement at Open Source Yoga, I lived in studio and completed my teacher training in Hatha Yoga and Yoga Thai Massage. My training allowed for an immersion into all things yoga, where we focused on an alignment based practice, as well as the principals of Yin yoga, Restorative yoga, and Thai Massage. I can honestly say this experience changed my life and opened my heart up to the full feelings of gratitude and joy that should be experienced at your work place. When I returned I had the honor of coming on as a teacher at the place I always envisioned myself, The Yoga Loft, working with an array of talented teachers and growing exponentially. At The Yoga Loft I teach Hatha Yoga and Thai4Yoga, as well as offer the occasional specialized workshop. The biggest take away that I receive on a daily is how I myself now effect people, and how I can make change in a person in a positive way by just being myself. There is nothing more rewarding than this feeling.
Namaste,
Amber Sleep
RYT-200
Certified Thai Yoga Massage Practitioner
AMY-JO TEATRO
Certified Moksha Yoga + Prenatal Instructor
I was first introduced to my practice in 2008, while studying abroad, in a classroom amongst the rolling mountains in Switzerland, to be exact. The classic and vivid memory of bell adorned cattle outside the window still has a way of taking me back to the peace, relaxation and heavenly sleeps that came from my intro to yoga. My draw to my mat started with the intention of adding to my regular exercise routine and I was committed to the physical benefits that I imagined would be similar to those of my past, as a competitive dancer.
When I returned home, my very busy-prone lifestyle did not leave me the space to continue a regular practice until late 2009, while working on the road. While living out of a suitcase and in a quest to keep myself busy in my off times I decided to reconnect with my mat. Very quickly, I noticed that my ‘physical’ practice (although very familiar) turned inward and I was experiencing the value of slowing down and taking time that was 100% for me.
Yoga classes have taught me the value of imperfection (which I had been very fearful of) and granted me the time to reflect on parts of my life that I had been running from, allowing me to learn (and continue to learn) to let go of things that are beyond my control rather than hiding from or avoiding them. After settling back home in Lindsay and continuing a very routine practice at a number of local studios I decided to make a life change and pursue my passion for Yoga as a career. In 2013, I graduated from the Moksha Yoga 500hr Teacher Training and haven’t looked back. I have since studied under other inspirational Leaders, Teachers and Yogis, such as Marla Ericksen (Yin), Mark Stephens (Yoga Adjustments) and Susi Hately to name a few. I look forward to continuing to grow with this beautiful community and look forward to joining you on whatever journey has drawn you to your mat.
Namaste
ANN MARIE MALY
Certified Yoga Teacher + Satya RYT200 Graduate
My “Yoga Journey” began when I was a new Mother looking to get some exercise & connect with other new Mothers. I joined a “Mommy & Baby” yoga class. I was hooked!
Over the years I have practiced many styles of Yoga & I always came away from the practice feeling calm, restored, stretched & excited about the next class!
I always look forward to the opportunity to get on my mat & I encourage others when they are feeling overwhelmed, stressed or tired to take the time for some self care. Practicing yoga makes me feel like I’m looking after myself, taking some “me time”; it has taught me to breathe, to be able to laugh at myself if I can’t do a pose; but it also makes me want to try harder to do the pose that is difficult.
While my daughter Cameron was taking her Yoga Teacher Training at the Yoga Loft, I can remember her saying “Mom, you should take the training” & I can remember my response being “I enjoy taking the class, not teaching it!” But her suggestion had stuck in the back of my mind & eventually I said to myself, she is right; I should do this! So I did… & it has been a life changing experience. It has given me a “confidence” that I never thought I could have. It has taught me about caring for our bodies, our heads & our hearts. It is living with love, consciousness & joy.
I am so proud to say I am a certified Yoga teacher; I practice Hatha & Vinyasa” yoga. I have trained in Prenatal yoga & I look forward to taking the Children’s yoga training.
When I’m not on my mat, I enjoy going on walks, cooking, spending time with family & friends & relaxing at our cottage (where I keep a good supply of yoga mats)!
Ann Marie
CARRIE
Certified Yoga Teacher + Assistant Trainer for Satya YTT
My love for yoga began in 2011. A neighbor up the street came by asking if I wanted to join her for yoga a few nights a week at the arena up the street. I thought sure, why not….. And I have been practicing ever since!
I would step onto my mat to practice and it was as if something magical happened. I felt this amazing sense of peace, joy, balance and freedom. The stretch my body undertook was always rejuvenating. These wonderful experiences kept me practicing.
In 2012 I took my teacher training through Power Yoga Canada, at Wolfe Island in Kingston. At that time, there were many transitions taking place in my life, all out of my control. I looked to yoga as my guiding light, as it always held the power to shine the thought of “possibility”.
Four years later, I am still practicing, still loving the sensations and experiences yoga provides. I am always learning something new and enjoy the many people yoga has brought to my life. I am richer for this knowledge and these interactions.
While practicing I am present, giving me the affordance to focus on what is coming up, usually what comes up for me on my mat is coming up for me in my life. I have been grateful for this awareness. I am able to focus my energy on what needs to be modified in my life.
I invite you to come and join me on your mat, to feel the magic, the awareness and the rejuvenation. Let the light of possibility shine, it is nothing short of a miracle!
“You are a powerful, creative and compassionate spirit.”
~Gary Zukav
Namaste
Carrie
CRYSTAL MORRISSEY
Certified Yoga Teacher | Satya RYT200 Graduate
Yoga has weaved its way through most of my life. As a teenager, I went to a school elective yoga class and had a light-bulb moment when the teacher had us breathe and pay attention to whether our chest and belly contracted or expanded. Mine contracted as I took shallow breaths into my chest. A few years later in university my memories are of walking through campus to class with girls who would become my life long friends and giggling and groaning as we were cued into awkward poses. I have memories of attending classes with my mother and with another lifelong friend, who used to come pick me up once a week and drive me out of town to attend class with her and her mother. Most recently my yoga practice has been at The Yoga Loft where I’ve enjoyed prenatal yoga, vinyasa and parent/child classes.
I can remember the moment I got the news that Joey was beginning a teacher training. I was walking down the street with a couple friends and I opened the email and knew right away I would join. Yoga has been a way for me to deal with anxiety over the years and has made a huge difference in my life. The more consistent my practice the better I am able to deal with everything life throws my way. As the training began last fall I knew I wanted to learn and grow my yoga knowledge and personal practice but wasn’t sure I would want to teach. As the months of training went by it became clear however that it was exactly what I wanted to do. I look forward to teaching and sharing my yoga practice at The Yoga Loft as I continue to learn and grow with this amazing Sangha.
Crystal
LESLIE ARMSTRONG
Certified Yoga Teacher | Satya RYT200 Graduate
I am a recently retired Physical and Health Education teacher who has spent thirty years teaching fitness and outdoor education. I have always been an advocate for fitness and recreational activities and I love to travel and learn new things.
While I have practiced yoga intermittently over the years and I have always known about the physical benefits as well as the mind/body/spirit connection, I often put other priorities, interests and fitness activities ahead of yoga until I met Joey. In September of 2017 I began my true yoga journey while taking the RYT-200-HOUR SATYA YTT course at the Yoga Loft.
I remember that when I first sat in a meditation, I was so thrilled that I could just sit for a half an hour. As I learned to control my breath in yoga practice, the slow, deep breathing has taught me to learn how to use my practice to calm myself when the stressors of everyday life build up in my body. I have come to understand that what I learn on the mat serves me off the mat. I love the physical and mental challenge of yoga, connecting me to my body and my mind and giving me clearer thoughts. I feel better inside and out. I wish this for everyone and want to help others grow in their own journey.
I believe the timing of my meeting Joey and taking the yoga teacher training happened for a reason. Yoga has given me a new purpose where I can continue to learn from others, explore new things and help make a difference in people’s lives. I look very forward to meeting new people, leading others in their yoga practice and staying involved in a such a wonderful community.
NAMASTE
MARY BAKER
Certified Yoga Teacher| Satya RYT200 Graduate
Yoga. One word that means so much to me. It is the one time that my mind calms, I focus on one thing at a time and I can just be. No mind telling me that I need to be “doing”, just be. And I firmly believe that everyone needs that, maybe now more than ever. Besides, I’ve never left a yoga class feeling upset. I’m smiling, laughing and feeling a bit more in touch with myself.
I have practiced yoga for over 10 years and a little while ago I was asked when I was going to do my teacher training. I pondered this question, discussed it with my family and jumped. I was truly excited and it had been a long time since I had been truly excited about something. I was lucky enough to be able to do my training with Joey at what I considered my home studio.
What I truly love about yoga is that you can make your practice all about your needs. You can slow it down, speed it up, listen to your body and take the challenge or take the rest that it craves. You do the breathing and your body does the stretching, taking what you need, leaving what you don’t. That’s just brilliant.
I can’t wait to meet you in class, be it in the studio or virtual. I believe that no yoga class can happen without a smile and a laugh, come prepared to do both.
Remember: the world needs more yoga.
Mary
MELANIE PINDER
Certified Yoga Teacher | Satya RYT200 Graduate
My yoga practice has evolved incredibly over time, from that first Thursday night donation class at the Yoga Loft, to an entire lifestyle that encompasses yoga, meditation and mindfulness. I fell in love with prenatal yoga and Mom and baby yoga, as it was an amazing way to connect with other Mamas going through similar experiences. I later learned that I was suffering from postpartum anxiety, which then turned into general anxiety. Yoga became much more than a physical practice, but a way to manage stress, alleviate anxiety and begin to come back to myself. I knew I needed yoga as a more consistent component in my life, so I decided to sign up for my YTT200 at the Yoga Loft. This is where my healing journey truly began. I learned so much about myself and how to guide others through their own journey with yoga. I am currently taking my RYTT and hope to take a Kids Yoga Training in the near future. I look forward to continuing to grow in this role as an instructor who can guide others back to themselves through yoga and mindfulness.
MELINDA JAYNE GILMOUR
Certified Yoga Teacher + Meditation Teacher | Satya RYT200 Graduate
Yoga was introduced to me while I was pregnant with my first child as a way to help my extreme morning sickness. I had 24 hr morning sickness and was loosing a lot of weight. A friend suggested yoga as a way to offer relief of my symptoms and reduce my stress. From the first class in the basement of a church I was amazed at how while practicing I didn’t feel nauseated and it felt as if I could finally breathe stress free. I could just breathe.
The impact of how it felt to practice yoga stayed with me, and for more than 20 years I’ve continued to practice several different types of yoga which all offered a wonder in how my body, mind and spirit feel. Throughout those 20 years life happened… stresses, life changes and life challenges… the ups and the downs and all life’s lessons. What has always grounded me was practicing yoga and meditation. In 2018 I took the amazing journey to become a yoga teacher, getting my certification with Joey at her Satya YTT 200 hr in 2019. Being able to teach yoga to others has been more than I could ever expect. Seeing and hearing how the benefits have impacted others thrills me beyond anything I can imagine.
Of course, I couldn’t stop at just being a yoga teacher. Embracing the mindfulness of yoga practice and my past experience with meditation lead me to pursue my 100 hr Meditation Teacher certificate from Home in 2021. This MTT was taught by Fernando Cano a guru in her own right, expressing teachings from her own gurus and experiences from all over the world including traditional Tibetan and Buddhist philosophy. I can’t express enough gratitude for this opportunity and experience that heightened my meditation practice and has now allowed me to be able to offer others the benefits alongside yoga. It’s been a beautiful marriage of practices made to compliment each other.
I am very much looking forward to helping others relax, restore, and recharge with accessible yoga and meditation practices.
Namaste