Each week, Leyla explores a different fitness class in Toronto and gives you a breakdown of what’s awesome and what’s not. 

Studio: Yoga Tree Downtown – 140 Spadina Avenue

Instructor: Leigh Bowen

Description: Vinyasa Flow 1/2 is to yoga what “vanilla sex” is to Fifty Shades of Grey. We’re talking good-old-fashioned “Om” chanting, “intention” setting, and a bunch of Downward Dogs, Sun Salutations, and Chaturangas; all in a naturally lit studio with white walls, relaxing music, and cushiony floor tiles. 

Why I signed up: I almost didn’t. My mood was foul and I didn’t want to get out of bed. But being in bed sucked, as did the weather, so I peeled off the covers and dragged myself the three blocks to Yoga Tree.

Price: 17.70$/class. Intro offer of 40$/One-month unlimited. Package savings available.

Level of difficulty from 1 (newbie) to 5 (hardcore): 1 with a dash of 3. I’ll explain: This 50-minute class (the norm in yoga is 90) moves slowly through uncomplicated poses, making it perfect for beginners. But you can still break a sweat and feel sore the next day.

Why you should (or shouldn’t) try it: In typical yoga form, Bowen opens the class in a seated position and asks you to check in with how your body is feeling. Feeling ready to test your limits? You probably won’t. Feeling sluggish and out of sorts? Get ready to feel much better.

Overall assessment: No heavy breathing or contortionist moves here. This class is more like your body singing your mind a love song.