Since opening its doors in 2005, Octopus Garden has evolved into an integrated centre for yoga, meditation, health and wellness. Students of all levels roll out their mats here to not only build strength and increase flexibility, but also for classes in meditation, workshops, teacher training and holistic treatments – all under one roof.
A spacious gathering space invites pre- or post-class decompressing time or opportunities for lingering conversations on comfy couches over custom cups of tea from the spiffy teaBOT. The buzz of students chatting and patients heading upstairs for holistic treatments feels inclusive and inviting. The bright, airy treatment centre is home to therapists and practitioners whose services range from nutrition, yoga therapy and reiki to osteopathy, naturopathy and psychotherapy, as well as chiropractic care and physiotherapy, including pelvic floor physio.
Octopus Garden is also a favourite place for yoga teachers to both study and learn. "We have developed a reputation as one of the premier studios for yoga education and teacher training in the city," explains owner Pat Harada Linfoot, who brings her passion for mentoring to Octopus Garden’s community of teachers, clinical therapists and students. The comprehensive 500-hour program has set a standard in Toronto: 200 hours of deepening your practice, plus a 300-hour program focused primarily on the art of teaching.
