The handful of things that make the studio work for everyone.

Arrival & check-in

Doors open about 15 minutes before each class. Come in, take off your shoes, say hi at the desk if it's your first time, and head into the studio. We start on time — earlier is gentler than later.

What to bring

• A yoga mat. We have mats to borrow if you don't have one — no charge.
• Clothes you can comfortably move in. There are no aesthetic standards here.
• A water bottle. We have refill stations on-site.
• For Restorative: optional warm layers and socks.

In class

• Phones on silent and tucked away.
• If you're late, come in quietly during a quiet moment. We'd rather have you than not.
• You're always allowed to take any pose smaller, slower, or skip it altogether. Resting is a real option, not a backup.
• Tell your teacher about pregnancy, recent injuries, or anything they should know — quietly before class is fine.

Parking

We have 4 in-tandem driveway spots on the left side of the building, reserved for students during class times. Pull up as far as you can (4 cars deep), nearly bumper to bumper. Vacate within 5–10 minutes of class finishing. Don't park in the driveway on the right side of the building.

In the neighbourhood

• Side streets allow free 2–3 hour parking. Always check signage.
• Don't park within 1.5 metres of a driveway (city bylaw).
• Do not park in the private lot across the street — those spots are reserved for tenants and you will be towed.

Winter parking

During declared City of Kitchener Snow Events (8 cm+ snowfall), no street parking is allowed. Cars get ticketed and towed. The closest public lot is the Otto St. Lot across from Centre in the Square (about a 5-minute walk). On Snow Event days, please walk, take transit, or get dropped off if you can.

Health & illness policy

Stay home if you're sick. We'll honour late cancellations for illness without penalty — just email us. Please don't come to in-studio class with a fever, active cough, or anything contagious. If you're feeling under the weather but still want to practice, the livestream option is yours.

Masks are welcome and never required. Air filtration runs continuously in both studios.

Cancellations

You can cancel a booked class in Mindbody up to 2 hours before start without penalty. Late cancels and no-shows still consume the credit (we hold the spot for you). For illness or genuine emergencies, email info@thebranchesyoga.com and we'll sort it.