On Sunday, June 23, the Guelph Yoga and Wellness Festival, founded by Dr. Kirstie Griffiths, will occur at Linamar's Frank Hasenfratz Centre from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Now in its third year, this day-long event promises to offer a rejuvenating mix of yoga and mind-body classes, workshops, and a comprehensive health and wellness exhibit featuring local businesses.
Integrating wellness, breaking barriers
Dr. Kirstie Griffiths, the event's organizer, chiropractor, and yoga teacher, said her journey into this field began at university, where she studied biomedical science while exploring yoga.
"Yoga was transformative in combining ancient wisdom with modern medical insights, inspiring me to pursue a career that bridges these worlds," she says.
Her unique approach combines the therapeutic benefits of yoga and chiropractic care, fostering a welcoming atmosphere that breaks the typical moulds of fitness and wellness spaces.
"Many of my patients were hesitant to try yoga in conventional settings, feeling the spaces were not designed for them," Dr. Griffiths shared.
She emphasized that her goal is to break down these barriers and create an environment where everyone feels welcome and can experience the benefits of yoga alongside chiropractic care.
The festival will feature various yoga and wellness activities suitable for all levels, from gentle yoga flows and meditative practices to more dynamic power vinyasa classes.
"We offer a spectrum of styles to ensure that everyone, from beginners to seasoned yogis, finds a class that suits their needs," explained Dr. Griffiths.
Every session promotes healing and self-awareness from the lens of the unique expertise and skillset of each instructor offering their class.
She has spent most of her career addressing these concerns, creating inclusive environments that invite everyone to experience the benefits of yoga regardless of their background or physical condition.
Guelph Yoga and Wellness Festival
The festival will kick off with a variety of yoga sessions suitable for all levels, from the calming 'Hatha—Awaken the Heart' to the energizing 'Power Vinyasa—Deep Power with Music.'
Workshops such as 'Vocal Toning and Tuning the Body' and 'Zen Drumming' will offer attendees unique ways to connect with their bodies and minds. The afternoon continues this theme with sessions focused on Pilates, sound body yoga, and yin/restorative practices aimed at enhancing emotional wellness and vitality.
A highlight of the festival is the health and wellness exhibit, where participants can experience various healing services, such as physiotherapy, chiropractic, osteopathy, and more.
Additionally, local vendors will offer a selection of wellness products, including natural stone jewelry, organic skincare, and handcrafted malas, providing a perfect opportunity to support local businesses while discovering new ways to enhance one’s health.
The festival also features a charity raffle, with all proceeds going to Hospice Wellington.
"This is an excellent way for attendees to give back to the community while enjoying the festival," Dr. Griffiths adds. The raffle includes over $7,000 of prizes from local practitioners and businesses.
"We have a variety of prizes donated by community businesses, including yoga class passes, wellness treatments, and gift cards," she notes.
Tickets are available for full-day and half-day passes, with sliding-scale pricing. The full-day pass allows unlimited access to all classes, workshops and two free health service sign-ups, making it an incredible value for those looking to fully immerse themselves in the day's activities.
The Guelph Yoga and Wellness Festival aims to rejuvenate those who attend and strengthen community bonds, support local businesses, and contribute to a vital local charity, embodying the spirit of wellness and care for others.
"Our goal is to create a space where everyone, regardless of their journey, feels they belong.”
Get your ticket today for the Guelph Yoga and Wellness Festival! Check out the website for more information on available ticket options and to register.