By no means could I be referred to as a “Yogi” but it is a goal of mine to one day become something close to one. My personal workout preferences have always veered towards high-intensity cardio; preferably with someone yelling in my face at all times. However, with a go-go-go lifestyle, I understand how important it is to take time to yourself, and concentrate on being calm, even when it seems like the hardest thing to do.

When my friend Robin (remember her from her awesome DIYs?) announced that she would be hosting rooftop yoga classes in Leslieville twice a week, I jumped at the chance to unwind, and soak in the sun after long days of work inside the office.

Of course the benefits of yoga are endless, but as an example, I’ll tell you how I was feeling last week: After hosting a very large impromptu BBQ on Monday night that sent me to bed at 4am (keep in mind I was back at the office by 9am), I was left a complete zombie for the rest of the week. It didn’t matter how much sleep I could get, I would wake up feeling miserable and exhausted. Even though dragging myself to a yoga class seemed like an amount of effort I couldn’t face, I forced myself to do it and I’m glad I did. The combination of exercise, meditation, fresh air and sunshine left me feeling like a new person after the class.

For any east siders (or anyone in Toronto, really) looking for a private and intimate yoga class to take part in, I highly recommend getting your downward dog on at this beautiful class. Here are some pictures from last Thursday (I’m hidden behind Robin in my neon top from O’Neill):

Back massage!

Bum massage!

Gettin’ down(ward) dog!

Neck stretch!

Of course no workout would be complete without a cute outfit! I always find a new gym look is the best way to get me motivated enough to go. A big thank you to O’Neill for hooking me up with their awesome workout gear to try out. It’s no wonder that this surf brand creates high quality gear that provides both functionality and flattering cuts. I especially love the long sleeve tee with cutout back.

Robin’s yoga classes take place at 6:30pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays with a suggested donation of $10. Currently classes are held at Dundas and Carlaw but this “wandering” yoga concept will soon move on to a new location come September that is still TBA. For further information please visit www.Royola.ca where you can also see a rather hilarious GIF of us doing yoga!

Love it? Hate it? Leave a comment and let me know what you think!