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889 Yonge
Category: Active Life Fitness & Instruction Yoga Yoga [Edit]
889 Yonge StToronto, ON M4W 2H2
(416) 925-7206
- Good for Kids:
- No
21 reviews for 889 Yonge
21 reviews in English
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Review from Laz C.
Toronto, ON
1/14/2012
om, 889 is wonderful. Right upon entering, the vibe is so welcoming and soothing that even a tentative newbie (me) will feel right at home. Staff is incredibly supportive and helpful; tea and water are freely available; the change rooms are spacious AND equipped with lockers.
I took a Fundamental Flow class with Lisa, which I simply loved. The instruction was very accessible for all levels and Lisa walked around improving and deepening our holds. The Flow was simultaneously challenging and restorative with each burning hold giving into looser, recharged muscles and a relaxed mind.
The ambiance at 889 is also incredibly beautiful and makes the visit feel like you're giving yourself a gift. -
Review from Selene n.
Toronto, ON
2/25/2012
I went for the saturday brunch flow class taught by Nicki. what a great class! an older clientelle than other studios I've been to - but that fits with the area, and it didn't feel weird as everyone was lovely and friendly. The space was lovely - lots of natural light, a very bright entryway and a nice little boutique with eyecandy in the back. Free david's tea is a great way to cap off your practice. The change room was spacious and clean with a couple of showers. I was in the sun studio upstairs, which was flooded with natural light.
The class was challenging in all the right ways. We did a core focused class and Nicki was good about giving tips on alignment to ensure we were working our core and not straining our backs. The practice had flexibility with Nicki giving a couple of pose options in some places depending on what you wanted to work on/relax. -
Review from Bronwyn K.
Toronto, ON
3/21/2012
Visited 889 Yonge as part of Passport to Prana. Beautiful space, and very welcoming. There's the most delicious tea on offer, and plenty of storage space for your stuff. The class (Ashtanga Current with Leslie Kriekle) was taught in an airy, bright room by a very patient, knowledgeable teacher who gave lots of personal attention. You're even anointed with oils at the end of the class! And even better, you're not crammed in, like in many TO yoga studios. I found it a wonderful, restorative experience. I would definitely go back.
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Review from Allison F.
Toronto, ON
4/29/2011
Massage Therapy @ 889
I had my first RMT appointment at 889 this week and it was a wonderful experience. I admit that I was initially apprehensive about booking a massage here as I had only attended Yoga classes and not the spa. However, I can confirm that this is a great place to check out if you are looking for a relaxing, relieving and renewing massage.
My RMT using a unique combination of stretching, pressure application, deep tissue massaging and breathing techniques to alleviate major muscle tension. Unlike other massages I have had where I experience soreness in the days after, I woke this morning and felt incredible - no sore/tired muscles from the treatment and I truly felt pain relief.
Rates are very reasonable for a downtown spa. -
Review from Jennifer M.
Toronto, ON
1/6/2011 1 Check-in Here
A class at 889 is less a Yoga Class and more a Yoga Experience.
Seriously, After visiting a large number of studios in the GTA this feels like checking out of the bungalow guest house you have been staying in and splurging for a 5 star with hot showers.
Everything is catered to ultimate luxury and the attention to detail is impeccable. The space is bright, beautiful and spacious. Change rooms are downstairs and the heated studio is up. The change rooms have lockers with keys, towels are available to use for free, there are soaps and lotions and tea stations, and filtered water everywhere.
I had Nicky Poole as my instructor on my first visit. I had specifically selected her class because of her reputation, and because i wanted to try a level 3 heated. She did not disappoint. Right when I entered she came over, greeted me warmly, shook my hand and asked me about my level of experience, injuries etc. There were no mirrors in the studio, which confused me at first as I like to watch my alignment, and the yogis all line up facing each other. During Vinyasa, I swear I nearly bumped heads with the girl I was facing several times. Nicky then instructed from the middle. It was a very intimate, community-like experience.
The class was Prana Flow 3, which focused on breathing, Vinyasa (!!!!!) and was very challenging. Not challenging in the overwhelmed-what-am-I-doing-here-I-am-going-to-die but supportive-anything-is-possible-with-some-practice -encouraging way. As a level 3 it was perfect. The moves flowed excellent from one to another, and she used the sanskrit names of the postures and everything flowed quickly and seamlessly. Just note that if you are into hot yoga or Bikram, it is "heated" at best, not hot.
For more experienced yogis, the benefit of an advanced class is that she was able judge the collective ability of all of us, and catered to it. She then could focus on explaining more advanced moves in detail and she did not have to stop to explain basic moves. It was great. The class opened and closed with a supported posture using bolsters and was tremendously restorative. The whole class had "world beat" Music (!!) and a (singing bowl?) energy clearing. 75 min flew by, and I was sad to see it end.
Not only is this the most beautiful studio I have ever visited, Three of my top Five teachers in Toronto teach here. Nicky Poole (the latest) Sunny Smith and Davian Den Otter! and I am so happy that they are all in one place.
They have a great $30 30 days package which I am going to pick up as soon as my passport expires.
Bonus Points
- Vinyasa (!!)
- Challenging Class, Excellent Instructor (!!!)
- Awesome Teachers including some of my favorites ever
- Beautiful Space
- Lockers (!!)
- Music (!!!!)
- Soaps, Teas, Filtered Waters, Lotions galore!
- Friendly Staff
- spa on site
- EVERYTHING is there for you. Water, Towels, Locks, Mats, you do not have to bring anything with you.
- Mat storage
Minus Points
- Not that hot, I like Hot Yoga. But who cares. GORG!
- Kind of pricey, but one trip to 889 and I'm skimming my budget to see where I can trim to afford. So worth it.Listed in: Best of the Best, Yoga Studios
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Review from Laura C.
Toronto, ON
2/9/2011
Yes, it's everything that everyone has ben saying! The place is nice, and should be the standard of all yoga places.
It's clean, cubby holes for everything, lockers for you to put things, 2 single stalled washroom, towels provides (So Important!), drinking water and tea everywhere.
It's got a nice lounge area in front of both studios, and great place to wake up/relax after class.
The check in process was same as all places, where you fill in the form etc. One thing I did notice was that the teacher wasn't present for the check in process to see and question who is in their class. And I really don't know if anyone is reading what I write about my injuries and exercise regime.
They did show me around briefly, which was nice, but I found although seemingly friendly, the reception girls were a bit fake. There was no asking me how the class was, or chit chatting as I left, like in the other studios.
I went to the Detox Class. They say it's a hot yoga class, but it's very much reduced heat. i didn't break a sweat. It was a flow class, so be prepared.
The instructor was okay, a little cold with strict instruction following music. She barely cracked a smile. She demoed it in the front, but hardly ever came around to make corrections, she had the time. I dislike this, because you can really hurt yourself if you're doing it wrong.
I did like the music during the class. It helped keep the flow, and I was so relaxed in the savasana listening to crickets chirp in a background of soft drums.
The cost is $18.95 for a drop in. They offer $30 introductory for a month otherwise 4 classes for a month $64, and it increases in price for longer time periods. It really costs just as much as a regular yoga class, so if you're not looking for moksha or bikram, this really is the place for you.
I love that they can provide certain standards on a dime similar to other places - they probably have higher rent as well.
It's close (a block and half) away from Bloor station. Parking is only really available at the Canadian tire down the street (or street parking in the side streets south off of Yonge). If you by something at the Canadian Tire, you get 1.5 free parking, but $4 for each half hour!!! it's robbery. I was there for about 2 hours in the end.Listed in: Om.........Namaste, Yoga Studios that I would take…
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Review from Joanne T.
Toronto, ON
10/24/2011
I had a facial this weekend at 889 Yonge.
I've been to a variety of spas/estheticians for facials and this is one of the best.
The warmed bed was a great way to start and Pauline (giving me the service) had magical fingers.
All the organic products were beautifully lightly scented and my skin is glowing and sooo soft.
No pressure to buy anything, just good service.
The lovely teas, nice change room and organic soaps was also a plus.
I just wish I lived closer to the them so I could enjoy their yoga classes too. -
Review from Janna S.
Studio 889 is probably the most luxurious yoga studio I've visited on my Passport to Prana. I've taken two classes here (one in each studio) and I'm quite taken with the fresh atmosphere, clean locker rooms (with locks included!) and beautiful facilities. Did I mention the lockers? Why aren't more studios taking this example? (hint hint Moksha)
The range of classes offered here is impressive, and the instructors are some of the best in the city. I appreciated the instructor who corrected my downward dog pose - it made me realize how often I've been doing this incorrectly and nobody has mentioned anything until now.
The only problem with 889 is that I'm completely spoiled now...it's going to be difficult to settle for anything less.Listed in: Best Washrooms in Toronto, Five for Five
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Review from Ryan T.
Toronto, ON
3/26/2011
The ancient practice for strengthening body mind and soul, delivered in a pretty slick studio loft, set by the gritty metropolis surrounding it.
Zen is totally at the whim of the subway trains passing by regularly, so practice your concentration techniques.
That almost New York feel. It's pretty much an ultimate yuppie experience of yoga in Yorkville.
Multiple sitting areas throughout the building with tea and water stations. Hangout out with girls after a good sweat. -
Review from Kate R.
York, ON
3/9/2011
This place is great - my favourite studio in Canada. I tried a lot of places I didn't like before finding this one.
Lisa Barkin, Kim McBean and Nicky Poole's classes are my favourite (especially Lisa's yin yoga class - she even goes around and gives everyone a little massage in each class). I'm sure everyone else is amazing too - I just haven't had a chance to try them yet!
They also have mat storage, really nice showers (with organic shampoo/conditioner!!) and free delicious tea.
The only thing that I don't like so much is the clientele are a bit more Yorkville and less granola than I'd like, but this is a very minor thing. -
Review from Roma M.
3/12/2010
This studio is one of the best, I don't even know where to start.
Take one look at the array of yoga classes this studio offers, and you know you're in for a yoga experience quite unlike any others, with classes like Hot Detox Flow(typical), to Mandala Flow and Ashtanga Current, which is a more advanced class.
The skill level is marked with tree-like symbols, 1 being slower paced and 3 being challenging and intense. I'd like to think I'm a beginner to intermediate level yogi, and I took a 2.5 level Hot Detox Flow class which detoxed the hell out of my body...and for the next two days.
I also loved that the instructor teaching my class had actually been to India and learned yoga there. I'm tired of faux-yogis who've basically paid for their teaching certificate from a non-licensed Toronto school, and it's usually plainly obvious when they incorrectly explain and over simplify Sanskrit terms. If you can't do it properly, don't even bother (I'm looking at you, Moksha Scarborough). At the end of the Detox class, the instructor pulled out a portable harmonium, sang and played a hymn that was both, relaxing and uplifting.
The studio offers the free usage of their mats, as well as tea and fruits. They also sell an array of tops by James Perse, some other lifestyle clothing and jewelry.
Change-rooms, lockers and showers are located in the basement, though they are still immaculate, and the room is pretty cute.
I think this has got to be the best all-round yoga studio in Toronto.Listed in: Yoga Fire!
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Review from vivian v.
Aurora, ON
4/7/2009
I'm new to the whole massaging world, and I'm still lacking in any real experience when it comes to the whole thing, but I adore this place. It was the first place I had gone to ever get massaged in my life and I will definitely be going back. Everyone was so helpful to the newbie I was. Usually, I can be the most uncomfortable person in the room, especially when I feel like I'm surrounded by those who feel as though they know everything (ie. everytime I walk into an American Apparel, but that's another story). But being in this place, everyone was just so nice. When I told them I was there for migraines, I was immediately given other options to take to help control them. I have to say, it's definitely key when employees share personal experiences to connect with their clients and it made everything so comfortable.
Amazing masseuse, I wish that I could remember her name so I could recommend her to everyone who reads this. Also, I don't know about you, but when I'm there, it's not to force awkward chit chat with the stranger who is touching me. So the fact that she did her job and wasn't trying to strike up a strange conversation (like has been forced on me in other spas) was more than appreciated.
The only thing I wish for is more amenities like some other spas. But even without those little treats, I'll definitely be going back asap. -
Review from Jennifer K.
Markham, ON
889 Yonge is really an Oasis for yoga and spa fans alike!
I went on a Monday night a FREE first class! Yes it is really free! No one trying to sell me any packages... The receptionists was so nice showing me where the rooms were and offer me sandals to walk around.
They have 2 practice rooms. I was attending a restorative class and the room is quite spacious with all the props set up in a nice mahagony cabinet. There are free yoga mats, free towels, free mat cleaner spray to use!
I have to tell you this place is popular! The class is packed! I love my restorative class! The instructor and the assistants came around and adjust everyone and make sure we have the proper alignment. There are bolsters, blankets, strips and my favourite EYE PILLOWS! The lighting is soft, that make the class so relaxing!
The waiting area is really nice too.. with hot tea, water and magazines you free to enjoy while you wait for the class.
They also has excellent spa products to use in the washroom/change room! I love the smell of spa! and all the hand creams and soap...
BTW, they no longer provide free yoga mats starting April 2010. So bring your own or rent one from them for $2.00. -
Review from Darcy C.
Toronto, ON
5/12/2011
After spraying down my rented mat I exited the studio & noticed a honeycomb of cardboard on the side wall of the adjoining lounge space...coloured pieces of rolled-up paper were inserted in it's surface...i saw that this 'karma wall' encouraged us to write something down that we were grateful for and then, deed done, stick the personal blessing into an available niche in the honeycomb....I wrote that I was grateful for my just-purchased passport to prana which'll allow me to check out pretty much every yoga spot in tha GTA muthafuckah....
.I am grateful to be able to mingle w/ Rosedalians & Parkdalians alike & the 889 experience made me grateful to be surrounded by beautiful women high above the adjacent subway train and even more grateful to be lying on a hardwood floor in chavasana and not packed onto a rushhour rocket 60 ft away outside the window ah bliss....the tea and water spread around the studio were a welcome refreshment before and after class and I even filled up my thermos for later. Good stuff...I am grateful that I can yelp about places like this....as they say na-ma-stay -
Review from Gloria F.
York, ON
7/13/2011
Came here with my husband for a facial each, using an online deal we had previously purchased. It was our first time here and we were pleasantly surprised by how friendly, warm and professional the staff were. The location is incredibly beautiful as previously described by other yelpers - I think yoga is their main focus, as we were brought downstairs into the basement where a small area is for "spa" experiences.
We both thought our facials were fantastic. Having been around the city a few times, we both thought the facialist at 889 yonge is one of the best we have had. Wonderful technique, incredibly serene and tranquil environment for the facial.
Highly recommend. I will likely come by and try out their yoga classes. I believe they have a great first month of yoga promo or something of the like. -
Review from Sophie P.
Toronto, ON
3/29/2011
The best yoga experience EVER!
This place has everything that I could ever want in a yoga studio. I can't even start to begin listing everything - or maybe I'll try.
I got my 1st month for $30 (i think?) then I had surgery so couldn't go back for a while but as soon as I'm done my recovery I will be buying monthly passes ($120ish I think?)
Spa feeling (serene)
High end finishes and details (luxurious)
Free water and tea
Use of yoga blocks, blankets
Mat rental
Locks on lockers
Big, bright yoga studios
CLEAN
Cute little area with stuff for purchase - lulu clothes, etc. etc.
They give you your own individual pass card and you swipe in and pick you class - which is neat. The classes are on the website and are pretty consistent.
I plan to try their spa out as well - totally looking forward to it.
Overall, nothing can beat this yoga studio. Not pretentious, just comfortable and luxurious. ahhhhhh luxury. -
Review from Grainne M.
Toronto, ON
7/31/2010 ROTD 10/8/2010
Thanks to the fabulous Yelp, I got a Passport to Prana recently and have been scanning the list trying to decide where to go first. I recently headed to Tula for my first yoga class in almost 3 years so was hoping I'd find somewhere that was challenging without expecting me to become a pretzel! I read the reviews of 889 Yonge (and reckon Roma M is always a good judge of yoga places) so decided to pop in today to get the holiday weekend off to a good start.
This studio is GORGEOUS. The staff at the desk were really friendly and full of smiles, I filled out the usual health form thing and headed off for my class. I kind of wished they had given a few directions because I had to ask someone else where the changing rooms were after wandering aimlessly for a few minutes. Turns out the changing areas are downstairs and are spotless with really restful feel and lockers that you don't have to bring a padlock for, showers and towels. There's water and tea in a little lobby area downstairs. The main floor has the reception desk, a little shop, mats and a new studio. I was in the back studio upstairs. There's a lovely waiting area with couches, water, tea and yoga books. Really sweet things were a book to suggest music you like for yoga and a wishing wall-you write a wish on a piece of coloured paper, roll it up and pop it into a little slot :-)
The studio I was in was so pleasant. The sun was streaming in the window and I was lucky that the Saturday brunch flow class I attended wasn't too crowded. The instructor, Nicky, was just the sweetest person and came over to me before the class because she knew I was new. She distributed blocks and straps and there were towels available in a shelving unit against one wall. The class was great....started off with gentle somatic type movements and then headed into a good flow session. I had forgotten how challenging yoga can be-it really demands a different type of strength to the gym-and I was reminded of how stiff and inflexible I've become! Nicky gave excellent instructions, demonstrated and corrected gently. I finished the class completely miles away in savasana...as relaxed as I would be after a facial or massage.
On the way out I had a nice cup of tea and the beaming girl at reception waved goodbye.
I wish I had more money-yoga works out expensive (vs a regular gym membership for example)...but they have a selection of packages etc-e.g. 6 classes for $108 or monthly membership packages ranging from 4 classes a month for $68 to the kind of super deluxe package at $230/month which allows you unlimited yoga plus either a private session or a massage once a month. Members also get 10% off at the boutique and wellness clinic. The membership options are an autorenewal thing though so best if you are definitely going to be there regularly! The current introductory special is $20 for 10 days unlimited yoga. Pretty good value-especially considering the quality of the teaching. And Jennifer K's description of the place as an oasis is utterly accurate. It's bliss :-)
I can't wait to go back! -
Review from jeanne y.
Toronto, ON
1/12/2011
5 star friendly top notch yoga centre. It has a modern homey feel. Beautiful and I would like to just live there.
The shower and locker room is beautiful and they have all the products and towels you need including a hair dryer.
Instructors are really nice, not snotty and will take the time to fix your posture. They are excellent communicators and if you are a super beginner like myself, this is the place to go to!
And there's always tea and water so you can enjoy and after your class by sitting in the sofa area.
Plus, they have spa services as well.
I also love their shopping area with lululemon, jewellery, James Perse clothing and imported organic bath and beauty products from the UK.
They also sell yummy healthy snacks. -
Review from Janine M.
Toronto, ON
5/3/2011
I've been practicing yoga for almost two years and have been to at least 15-20 studios throughout North America and the Caribbean. 889 Yonge stands out in my mind for so many reasons. Their attention to detail, organic shampoo in the artisticlly designer showers, the always welcoming staff and the can't beat $30 introductory deal. Oh, and I can't forget the tea! VERY rarely have I ever been to a studio that has multiple tea and water stations and has designated, and ample, space to enjoy it. As a rule I have a cup of tea before and after each class. It's the perfect compliment to any level of practice. I also love the variety in classes and the instructors each vary their own individual practice. You WILL NOT get bored or umotivated with the team at 889 Yonge. I literally could go on for days about how amazing this place this. Overall, they practice what they preach, they don't judge others and the environment they create is nurturing and warm.
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Review from Hutch M.
10/20/2009
Best yoga studio in Toronto hands down. The teachers are amazing, especially Jen Findlay.
I haven't used any of the spa facilities or specialists that are available, but have only heard incredible things about them all. Dr. Rose by all accounts is a miracle worker.
The staff are all incredibly nice and knowledgeable.
This place offers so much, it's hard to know where to start. That said, when I'm back in Toronto, 889 Yonge is precisely where I will start! -
Review from Starr W.
Scarborough, ON
1/9/2010
Though I'm not yet quite familiar with the entire yoga hype, this was the first studio that I decided to try out some fundamental basics. I had gone with a friend, both of us intending to buy the Passport to Prana (which we did), but we also learned that the first class was free! When I first walked in from the busy hype of Yonge Street (it's located in a great area), I felt as if I walked into another world. With the cascading waterfall behind the desk, the atmosphere was incredibly relaxed and very zen-like. The change rooms had spacious lockers and modern showers; I was even surprised they provided hairbands and hairdryers. Yoga mat, towel, tea and water are all complimentary. I took the Fundamental Flow (beginner) class with Scott Petrie, who was very patient, and it was an amazing experience. They also have a nice boutique which sells yoga related items but it is slightly overpriced, as is anything yoga-related. The staff were particularly helpful (I had many questions) and friendly. The only downside is that their prices are a little pricer than normal. But it compensates for the peaceful ambiance of the studio. I can't wait to go back for a second class!
