This workshop is designed to support the transition into spring by creating space to release what you may be carrying with you from the winter months.
For many, winter can be a time of challenge, a time of isolation, heaviness, or moving through things quietly on our own. During this season, we each find ways to cope with discomfort. As we move into a new season, there’s an opportunity to pause and reflect on these patterns, and what may no longer be serving us.
Together, we’ll explore what it means to be with discomfort, whether physical or emotional, and how our relationship to it shapes the way we move through change.
We’ll begin in community with a grounding conversation led by Tessa and Tesia, Registered Psychotherapists. Drawing from a polyvagal-informed lens, this portion will offer insight into different nervous system states and invite a more compassionate, curious way of responding to discomfort.
From there, Liv, Movement Instructor and Educator, will guide an energizing pilates practice, inviting you to explore your edge in a way that feels supported, intentional, and attuned to your body’s needs.
The workshop will then slow down into stillness with a guided yoga practice, followed by space for journaling and reflection. You’ll be invited to tune inward and explore what you’re noticing in your body, your relationship to discomfort, what may be asking for your attention or care, and begin setting intentions for the spring and summer months.
We’ll close with gentle integration, allowing space for what has surfaced to settle.
What to expect:
— Grounding conversation and nervous system-informed reflection
— An energizing pilates practice
— Guided yoga and solo journaling
— Space for integration and reconnection
Date: Saturday, May 30, 2026
Time: 2:30PM - 4:30PM
Location: Pure Yoga Centretown (359 Bank St)
Investment: $45 + HST
*spots available for those needing financial assistance
Note: Pre-registration is required and spots are limited. A number of spots are reserved for those requiring financial assistance. Please reach out directly to Liane Wilson (liane@pureyogaottawa.com) if this would support your participation.
Please bring a cushion to sit on, a yoga mat, water bottle, journal, and pen for the reflection component. Wear whatever you feel comfortable in, keeping in mind there will be movement.
Disclaimer: This workshop is educational and reflective in nature and is not intended to replace psychotherapy or mental health care. Some exercises may bring up difficult emotions, and participants are encouraged to participate at their own pace and take breaks as needed.
Your leads
Tessa Natale, M.A., is a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), Certified Clinical Counsellor, and support group facilitator offering services virtually across Canada. Her work is trauma-informed and integrates attachment-based, mindfulness, and cognitive behavioural approaches, guiding individuals toward greater self-understanding, regulation, and self-trust. Tessa also facilitates a 6-week group, Disconnect to Reconnect, supporting individuals in reshaping their relationship with their phones and social media. Outside of session, you can find Tess on the mat, learning to read tarot cards, exploring the West Coast, or in the ceramics studio.
Tesia Bryski, M.Ed, is a Registered Psychotherapist, Clinical Supervisor, and the Founder & Co-Director of the Shine Mental Health Collective. Tesia is trained in mindfulness, meditation, and yoga, and often draws from contemplative practices, values, and philosophies in her work as a therapist. She is a teacher and a forever student, and identifies as a certified silly goose both in and out of session, prioritizing bringing her full humanity and authentic self into every aspect of life.
Liv Urquhart is a movement educator, Pilates instructor, and founder of The Body Balance Studio. With a background in Human Kinetics and Massage Therapy, she brings a strong understanding of the body into her teaching. Her approach blends science-backed principles with a holistic lens, supporting individuals in building strength, improving mobility, and moving with greater confidence and intention. At the core of her work is a passion for improving movement literacy and helping people develop a more informed, connected relationship with their bodies.
~ This workshop is non-refundable and non-transferable. ~