Sukha Yoga & Pilates — Attraction in Markham

I've practiced at numerous studios and of all the places I've been to, this is one of the best. I personally choose studios/classes based on the teachers (and will follow them around to different places if necessary) but I understand that everyone will be looking for different things in their yoga practice which is why I will focus this review a bit more on the studio rather than the specific teachers.

I've been practicing primarily at Moksha Thornhill for the past 6 years and it has really grown since it's infancy. There are two really large studios (one heated and one not heated). The location is inside a more industrial building which means super high lofty ceilings which give you a lot more space to breathe and you feel much less cramped than at some other studios I've been to. Of ALL the studios I've visited (and I've visited a LOT), the shower and washrooms here have got to be the best. The women's side has SIX showers which are quite spacious (most other studios the showers are cramped and tiny). The changeroom area is also quite large and there is plenty of room to move around. There are lockers free of charge for those who want to lock up their belongings. The entire studio is constantly being cleaned and is quite immaculate. For those who want to hang out before or after class, there is a nice lounge area with benches and beanbag chairs and complimentary tea. The front reception staff are super nice and will quickly recognize you and address you by name. Towel and mat rentals are available for an extra fee.

In addition to the heated moksha classes (I can't speak to them anymore as I no longer like to practice in the heat), there is a myriad of other options in the non-heated room. There is a mysore program (astanga yoga) here in the early mornings (for a separate fee) which is amazing because there are so few mysore programs here in Toronto. Anna is amazing and can get you into almost any pose if you work with her for long enough. There are also barre, pilates, and more fitness type classes for those who want something other than yoga. The non heated yoga classes have varying levels and are available throughout the day including morning, afternoon, and evening classes.

As for the classes I take, for the past few years, I only do Ashtanga with Mark Morra and Vinyasa 2 with Michael Siddall.

If you are interested in Ashtanga, Mark is the one to learn from. When I started practicing with him (I had already been practicing ashtanga for about 2 years), he completely changed my practice and I grew in leaps and bounds. His cues and hands-on adjustments teach you to use your own body strength to push yourself deeper into the poses while at the same time, also better aligning your body - with the ultimate goal of truly understanding the pose and how it should feel in your body. Mark has an incredible understanding of the human body and adapts his instructions so that his classes are suitable for both beginners and advanced practitioners alike. His relaxed and no expectations approach also always makes you feel welcome and happy to show up to class. It's one of the reasons I've followed him around from studio to studio (finally ending up in Thornhill).

The Vinyasa 2 classes with Michael are great for those who want to have a challenge while also fun at the same time. Michael's classes start and end with chants which calms the mind and sets the mood for the rest of the class. The beginning of the class starts off with a lot of forward folds and stretching which helps to open up the body and then proceeds to more strength based poses including arm balances and handstands - all the while maintaining a focus on quieting the mind and moving with breath. You will also see lots of giggles in class with Michael's mischievous and fun approach to class. A wonderful combination of strength, flexibility and spirituality all in one class.

MYTH is also the sister studio to Moksha North York which means a membership at either studio will grant you...

I have to say that this yoga studio is an absolute dream. All of the staff are encouraging, care about your development in your practice, friendly and positive. The feeling of community, peace and love is incredible.

With respects to the studio itself, this place is incredibly clean and has plenty of showers. I forgot my body wash and was delighted to see the studio had provided soap for use.

The hot yoga room is huge which provides ample room during classes.

The instructors are amazing, they cater to all levels of students. Teacher offer students adjustment, encourage rest, honouring your body's limits and always willing to engage after class. The teacher(s) push students with positive encouragement and without a regime like attitude. Which makes new comers feel very welcomed.

I'm fairly new to the practice and can say that if you're new and thinking about joining a studio this is the place. Be sure to introduce yourself to your teacher and let them know you are new and you'll be in good hands.

I was slightly hesitant about attending hot yoga and called the studio to find about more about what to expect. Darcy was extremely helpful answered all of my questions and put my doubts to rest. I instantly felt at home when I arrived for my first class and Darcy remembered my name from our conversation. The staff really goes out of their way to connect with your personally and I especially love that a teacher is always at the desk when you arrive for your class. During my second class Trish recognized that I was new and took the time to introduce herself and ask me about my practice and experience. On my third class I was greeted by Jo, whom I've not yet take a class with. However, Jo was at the desk when I first signed up and remembered my name. It's this type of personal connection that you feel at this studio. A connection with both teachers and students.

Darcy, Jo and Trish thank you for welcoming me into your space. Looking forward to meeting the rest of the teachers and growing...

Yoga classes are professional and great. They have an area where they provide hot tea to chill/relax before and after classes. i’ve never tried the pilates here, but the yoga classes are a 10/10 from me.

The overall people and atmosphere of the studio is very welcoming, and i’ve never felt out of place in any of my classes. there are always beginners in each class, so don’t let your level discourage you from practice. each yoga movement is explained very well and guided. i never get confused about the yoga position, making it easy to close my eyes during my practice. they also offer hands on adjustments to help posture and form.

sign in is extremely easy with the ipad. The staff is very accommodating when it comes to providing questions and needs as well.

change rooms are extremely clean, and they provide lockers for personal belongings. If you don’t have a lock, they have a basket at the front desk where you can place stuff you are worried about being stolen.

sometimes, the evening Yin classes can get really full as the maximum is around 50 spots (i think) per a class. i would say that during the really busy classes, if you show up 5 mins or less before the start of class, you find yourself trying to place your mat in pretty close in between people. which isn’t really a problem for me, as there is still decent space to practice yoga properly. just be sure to show up early for your classes, especially if you know it’ll be a busy one.

showing up early is also important: One time i tried to sign in at the exact start time of the class, and the lady at the front desk told me i wasn’t able to attend the class because the instructor just entered the yoga room. which i completely understand, as it maintains professionalism in the studio. the staff helped me cancel my spot and rebook a different time.

overall, i would recommend this place...