Overview
The Branches (formerly Queen Street Yoga) is a community-focused studio in Kitchener that blends traditional and innovative movement practices. The studio prioritizes social and environmental justice, collective care, and lifelong learning. Classes are organized along a continuum of movement and mood, from Slow Flow to Strength Essentials, all designed to help participants befriend their bodies and minds. The studio offers both in-studio and virtual drop-in classes, as well as teacher training programs including a 250-hour YTT and specialized certifications in trauma-informed yoga nidra and restorative yoga. The atmosphere is described as warm and welcoming, with instructors who provide modifications and encourage joy in movement. Parking is available in the studio’s driveway with four reserved spots, and nearby street parking is free for limited periods. The Ground Studio has steps, and the all-gender washroom is designed for accessibility. The email newsletter provides additional home practice support and educational content.
Yoga Format
Yoga Styles
Studio Business Hours
| Day | Status | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Monday | Open | 8:30 am – 9:00 pm |
| Tuesday | Open | 6:30 am – 9:00 pm |
| Wednesday | Open | 8:30 am – 9:00 pm |
| Thursday | Open | 7:00 am – 9:00 pm |
| Friday | Open | 9:30 am – 8:00 pm |
| Saturday | Open | 9:30 am – 12:30 pm |
| Sunday | Open | 9:00 am – 12:30 pm |
Studio in Details
Overview and Philosophy
The Branches in Kitchener is a community-oriented studio blending traditional and innovative approaches to movement. The studio uses yoga as a catalyst for social and environmental justice, emphasizing collective care and lifelong learning. Classes help participants befriend their bodies and minds, building capacity for challenges while taking refuge in rest and pleasure. The intergenerational community focuses on making yoga accessible, especially for those who may not feel comfortable in conventional fitness spaces. Instructors are supportive and offer modifications to adapt classes to individual needs. The studio also publishes articles and offers free home practice supports via its email list. Teacher training programs include a 250-hour YTT and specialized certifications in trauma-informed yoga nidra and restorative yoga. Scholarships are available.
Classes and Offerings
The studio provides a diverse class schedule including yoga asana, meditation, and strength training. Classes are organized along a continuum of movement and mood, helping participants choose based on their intentions. Slow Flow offers an active but unrushed pace with nourishing focus. Stretch & Centre blends gentle movement with meditative practices, suitable for all levels. Flow & Restore transitions from athletic flow to restorative poses. Strength Essentials is a non-yoga strength class using free weights and resistance bands, ideal for building bone density or regaining strength after life changes. Essentials focuses on fundamental poses at a moderate pace, great for beginners. Sunrise Flow starts the day with playful, active movement and breathing exercises. All classes are available in-studio or virtually. The studio also offers teacher training programs and continuing education. Live drop-in classes can be booked in advance.
Visitor Experience and Practical Information
The Branches is located near downtown Kitchener, close to Frederick and Lancaster. The Ground Studio has seven steps from street level; the Sky Studio is on the third floor. The all-gender washroom on the ground floor is designed for accessibility. Parking is available in the left driveway with four in-tandem spots reserved for students; cars should park bumper to bumper and vacate within 5–10 minutes after class. Street parking is free for 2–3 hours on side streets, but avoid the private lot across the street. During snow events of 8 cm or more, city street parking is prohibited; students are encouraged to use public transit, walk, or be dropped off. The studio recommends arriving early to find parking. Visitors describe the atmosphere as warm, welcoming, and engaging, with passionate instructors. The email newsletter provides tips, education, and free home practice supports.