Overview
Institut Yoga Essentiel in Montreal’s N.D.G. borough offers Iyengar-inspired yoga classes for all levels. Founder Josephine Vittoria leads with a focus on alignment and individualized attention. The school provides multi-level group classes including Basics, Mixed Level, Advanced, Gentle Yoga for Aging Bodies, Restorative Yoga, and Yoga Kurunta (rope work). Classes are available in-person, online, or hybrid, with session-based registration and drop-in options. Private sessions address specific needs such as injuries or stress. The institute also runs a 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training program (October 2026 to June 2027) covering asana, anatomy, and teaching methodology, and organizes international retreats. Registered with Yoga Alliance International, the studio emphasizes mindful practice and community support. Reviews highlight Josephine’s knowledgeable, welcoming teaching style and the studio’s authentic, non-commercial atmosphere.
Yoga Format
Yoga Styles
Studio Amenities
Studio Business Hours
| Day | Status | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Monday | Open | 10:00 am – 11:30 am |
| Tuesday | Open | 10:00 am – 7:45 pm |
| Wednesday | Open | 6:30 pm – 8:00 pm |
| Thursday | Open | 10:00 am – 8:30 pm |
| Friday | Open | 10:00 am – 11:30 am |
| Saturday | Open | 8:30 am – 12:30 pm |
| Sunday | Open | 10:00 am – 11:30 am |
Studio in Details
Overview and Approach
Institut Yoga Essentiel is located in Montreal’s N.D.G. borough and offers multi-level yoga classes inspired by the Iyengar method. Josephine Vittoria, who has been teaching since 2012, leads the school with a focus on alignment and individualized instruction. Classes cater to students of all ages and physical abilities, with an emphasis on learning proper technique through clear demonstration, verbal cues, and adjustments.
The school is registered with Yoga Alliance International and recognized as an accredited educational institution by Revenue Quebec and Employment and Social Development Canada. Beyond weekly classes, the institute organizes workshops, teacher training programs, and international retreats led by Josephine.
Classes and Programs
The class schedule includes a range of offerings: Basics for newcomers, Mixed Level for those with a foundation, Advanced for experienced practitioners, Gentle Yoga for Aging Bodies, Restorative Yoga, and Yoga Kurunta (rope practice) for students with at least one year of experience. Morning Practice sessions on Saturdays combine asana, pranayama, and restorative techniques. Classes are available in-person, online, or hybrid, with the Spring 2026 session running from May 4 to June 28.
Private yoga sessions are offered for individuals with specific health concerns or goals. The 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training program runs from October 2026 to June 2027, covering asana, anatomy, teaching methodology, pranayama, and yoga philosophy. The program is bilingual and open to all curious students seeking deeper study.
Visitor Experience
Reviews consistently describe the studio as welcoming and supportive, with Josephine’s teaching praised for its clarity, technical precision, and warmth. Students appreciate the patient breakdown of poses and the use of props to make postures accessible. The atmosphere is described as authentic and free from commercialized pressure, fostering a strong sense of community in morning and evening classes.
Beginners feel at ease due to the step-by-step instruction, while experienced practitioners find depth through challenging sequences and personalized feedback. The studio’s retreats are noted for their balance of rigorous practice and relaxation, with good food and company. Overall, visitors find a space that encourages genuine growth in both practice and understanding of yoga.