Zaandi Yoga Studios

About Doris Kienitz

Doris earned her teaching certificate through Hamsa College for Holistic Sciences & Behavioural Technology & the Hamilton Yoga Institute in 2004 in Hamilton, Ontario.

Doris is a member of the Ontario Yoga Association where she continues to attend workshops and retreats. She also has completed and attained the initiation and knowledge of 2nd Degree Reiki.

My first book has been released!

I am excited to announce EAST GERMANY and the ESCAPE: KITCHEN TABLE MEMOIRS was published in November, 2011. The true story of my father, Alfred Kienitz (b. 1930) set in East Germany - before, during and after WW2 - tells of many adventures and hardships suffered during those times.
Imagine you are a fifteen year old boy in East Germany in 1945, apprenticing in a nearby village when word comes from your parents via a friend, the Russian Army is approaching. Not wanting to alert your boss of your departure, you, and another young teen, set off on bicycles to make the 30 kilometre trek home in the dark along an unfamiliar path.
Numerous chapters involve Alfred as a teenager on many of his escapades. Once married, he had no choice but to play the role of 'police helper' for the authorities - while at the same time risking his life by secretly assisting family, friends and even strangers to escape the clutches of Communism. After he aided his parents and brother escape into West Berlin, he and his wife, Margot, set their own plan in motion.

Log onto my blog site www.doriskienitz.yolasite.com for more info on the book.

Zaandi Yoga Studios Born

After reaping so many benefits of Hatha Yoga, I was interested in sharing this experience with others. I began my year long teacher training course in Hamilton, Ontario, becoming certified in September, 2004.

Since then I’ve taught yoga and meditation classes in many locations in Haldimand and Norfolk including private classes, AHL hockey players, special weekend retreats, and students from 8 – 80 in small and large group settings!

Escape to the Country

After travelling to many locations to teach in various halls, Zaandi Yoga studios opened up a home base location in March of 2010 at 87 Concession 3 Road, Fisherville. Features include a heated cork floor, warm earth-tone colours, beautiful paintings by local artists, and large windows that overlook a quiet country setting.

First Yoga Encounter

After starting a regular yoga practice in 2001, I couldn't believe how much more relaxed my muscles were. The tension in my shoulders felt so much better after only a few classes. A chronic pain that had persisted under my right shoulder blade for 16 years gradually got better! My Irritable Bowel Syndrome for the first time in many years was brought under control. I was amazed at the positive results that yoga had on my body, mind and spirit and the deep connection of all three. For me, it was a matter of releasing deep seated tension through proper breathing, meditation and various Asanas.

What We Do In Class

Each class begins with a centering and gentle warm up exercises (the older we get, the longer we need to warm up those muscles!), followed by Pranayama (energy control through specific breathing exercises) and Meditation.

Various asanas (poses) are then performed finished off by
a guided relaxation where every single cell of your body has
a chance to recharge. Sound blissful? The relaxation is the student’s favourite part!

Vrksasana Sun Salutation

Benefits are given for each asana as well as alternate poses for neck/low back/knee etc. problems. Sanskrit words are used as well the English terms for the poses.

Students report:

Improved sleep quality;
Lowering blood pressure;
Better concentration;
Improved breathing pattern;
Enhanced awareness;
And much more.

To see the preciousness of all things,
we must bring our full attention to life.
- Jack Kornfield

Studio

Certified Nia White Belt

Nia is so much fun! It's a fusion of dance, movement,
music and fitness that will leave you glowing!

Nia is: A cardiovascular program that uses music, the sensation of pleasure, and whole body expressive movement;

A combination of nine classic movement forms
from 3 arts:
- Martial Arts (Tai Chi, Tae Kwon Do, Aikido)
- Healing Arts (The Alexander Technique, The Work of Moshe Feldenkrais, Yoga)
- Dance Arts (Duncan, Jazz, Modern)
Non-impact and safe for the joints;
Adaptable to every age, fitness level, and body type, even those with limitations and special needs.

NIa 2

Now Introducing Audrey O'Marra

Meditation Facilitator; Certified Hatha Yoga Instructor with the Aura Wellness Centre; Reiki Master - Usui Shiki

A Bit About Audrey - When I began my practice of Yoga I was 46 years old. I had been a pack-a-day smoker for 25 years and had quit smoking when I was 40. Prior to practicing Yoga I had a violent cough; I went to several specialists but with little results. After about six months of practicing Yoga at Zaandi Yoga Studios, my symptoms began to subside. After about a year of daily practice I no longer require the use of my puffers. This is but a small portion of the personal benefits I have enjoyed from my practice. My passion and love for the art of Yoga grows deeper with each day!

"Yoga has become an important part of my life. It helps me to relax and it has improved my flexibility. Your soothing voice is great for meditation. No matter how hard the day has been I always feel a sense of peace after yoga class. You are an inspiration. Thank you."
– Sharon

"Thank you so much for guiding me on my yoga journey. Prior to beginning my right arm was extremely painful and I couldn’t fully extend it. Now I am mostly pain free and my extension is now full. The flexibility of the rest of the body is unbelievable. Thanks again."
– Susan

"I so enjoyed our meditation yesterday. When I came in to class I felt a little frustrated and a little stressed, but it made me feel so calm and relaxed. I am going to try and do a meditation in the morning before anyone else is awake and the house is still quiet. Thank you so much for your wonderful gift, you are an amazing lady. You have taught me so much about myself, about my mind and body and how amazing we are as individuals. I feel so blessed that you have come into my life."
– Kim

"Meeting you and learning yoga with you has been an awesome experience for me! I know that yoga will be something that I want to incorporate into the rest of my life — thank you so much for making it such a positive experience for me. It has given me balance, peace & serenity and quite simply saved my soul many times in the last few months. I truly believe that I was meant to meet you for a reason. Thank you for everything."
– Shelley

"Since I’ve joined yoga in Jan. 2007, I’ve found this to be the most positive, calming experience in my life. The deep breathing and exercises are great. Thanks Doris!"
– Vicky

"You are truly a life savior – so many areas of my life have improved; my breathing, my balance, my spirit. Yoga is a life style I will practice for the rest of my life. Thanks."
– Audrey

I just wanted to send you a quick note to let you know how much Yoga has helped me in the last week. On Fri. 12, I had surgery (surgery date was bumped up from May 17 with just a week's notice). I was quite anxious going into the OR, and I used the meditation techniques that you've taught in class to help calm me. After surgery, the pain was much greater than I had anticipated. I was able to control the pain better by focusing on my breathing. I was so amazed at how I was able to help myself so much just by meditating and breathing! I have enjoyed your classes so much, and while I will not be able to attend your spring session due to my 6-8 week recovery, I will certainly be back for future sessions. Thanks for giving me the tools that I really needed to get through that difficult time!
– Amanda