Yoga at the Quay is continuing in its quest to focus on inclusivity and accessibility.
Located in River Market, Yoga at the Quay is dedicated to serving the residents of New Westminster – no matter their age, ability, or experience with yoga.
“Our focus is creating meaningful experiences for anyone who walks through our doors,” founder Laura O’Reilly said in a press release. “We’re really excited to welcome the community to our space and show them what we’re about and how we can support them on their wellness journey.”
Yoga at the Quay opened in River Market in early 2023 with a goal of making traditional yoga accessible for all – regardless of people’s fitness levels, yoga experience, needs and interests. All community members are invited to attend its official grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony on Wednesday, Feb. 28 at 2 p.m.
“Opening the studio and getting everything in order was a big labour of love, so we are having our grand opening and ceremonial ribbon cutting with the mayor because now I'm ready for it,” O’Reilly said. “At our grand opening, there will be a chance to tour the studio, connect with our community, enjoy live music, snacks and a great sale offer.”
Yoga at the Quay offers four different paths of yoga: raja (physical postures, meditation, and breath work), karma (self-less service), jnana (learning and yoga philosophy) and bhakti (love and devotion).
“We also offer kirtan classes – which is a guided meditation with live music, and a yoga spa experience, which is restorative yoga and self-massage,” O’Reilly said.
The studio is focused on providing an inclusive and person-centred experience. Classes are capped at a maximum of 12 participants, and subsidized membership are available for individuals in financial need.
“There are options for everybody, every stage of life, and for those impacted by injury and illness,” O’Reilly said. “I think there is a need for a place where accessibility, community and traditional yoga practices are honoured. We hope to be that place for New West.”
Yoga at the Quay was nominated for a 2023 Platinum Awards in the New Business of the Year category.
Since opening, the business has participated in and hosted a number of events, including a workshop for International Yoga Day (June 21), a food workshop focused on healthy eating, and free yoga at the New West Farmers Market.
Upcoming community events include: Kirtan and Kitchari (musical mantra meditation followed by a vegan and gluten-free feast) and a chakra healing sound bath (using a full set of chakra-tuned crystal bowls and mantras to remove blockages, remedy imbalances and improve energy to flow). Details on Yoga at the Quay’s website.
