The fall colours have come and gone, along with the ghouls and goblins of Hallowe’en. Now that we're firmly into the fall season, it feels a little more appropriate to start mentioning the W word… winter!

I've got a few things in store to help make the transition into the colder months a little more enjoyable, including some special classes and a new retreat. If cozy Yin Yoga practices are your thing, I'll be offering fall and winter editions of my Yin & Aromatherapy classes at two locally-owned studios. And if you're looking for a mid-winter weekend escape from the daily grind, join me at the Yoga Kāla Mid-Winter Reset Retreat.

Of course, my regular classes in south Ottawa continue throughout the season, and there's always room for you on the mat! You can find the schedule and details at yogakala.ca/practice.

Beyond the fall and winter offerings, I'm also working on some exciting projects for 2027 (possibly even an international retreat in the fall) and I look forward to sharing more information with you as plans firm up. But first, read on for a closer look at what's happening in the next few months!

Be well,

Ellen

This or That: Fall or Winter Yin & Aromatherapy?

Imagine a cozy candlelit room, ready to welcome your weary body for two hours of stretching and stillness, enhanced by uplifting and calming essential oils. Now, picture an optional head massage to settle you into savasana.

My Yin & Aromatherapy classes are designed to calm your body, mind and nervous system. The class combines the deeply restorative practice of Yin Yoga — long-held poses to stretch connective tissues, improve circulation, and foster introspection — with the therapeutic benefits of season-inspired essential oils. Poses are thoughtfully paired with high-quality oils that are used aromatically, and self or teacher applied, with an optional head massage at the end of class.

Fall and winter are the perfect seasons for this practice. Which will you sign up for?

This practice is suitable for everyone. No prior yoga experience required.

FALL EDITION YIN & AROMATHERAPY

with Ellen

Friday, November 13, 2026, 7-9 p.m.

Move Like You Studio, 432 Sunnyside Ave., Old Ottawa South

WINTER EDITION YIN & AROMATHERAPY

with Ellen & Mountaingoat studio owner Julie Rollwagen

Sunday, January 10, 2027, 7-9 p.m.

Mountaingoat Yoga, 3350 Fallowfield Road, Unit 5, Barrhaven

For the past five years I’ve hosted fall yoga retreats that helped guests slow down and deepen connections with themselves, nature, and other guests. While it feels strange to not be offering one this year, I’m excited to share that I’m offering a winter retreat at a venue closer to the city!

The Yoga Kāla Mid-Winter Reset is an invitation to step away from the demands of day-to-day life and make time for yourself.

It's a weekend to clear some of the mental clutter through mindful movement, quiet reflection and conversations with other guests. We'll make time to listen more closely to the thoughts and ideas that may be simmering just beneath the surface, take stock of what matters most at this stage of life, and consider how we want to spend our time and energy in the next season. Over the course of the weekend, we'll gain fresh perspectives from one another and make room to think more intentionally about the path ahead.

DETAILS

The Mid-Winter Reset will take place February 5 - 7, 2027, at Manoir de la Forêt, only 30 minutes from central Ottawa. It is a serene and cozy retreat venue on 29 acres of forested land that supports focus and connection.

Early Bird prices range from $629 to $879 + tax, and include accommodation, six meals, tea, coffee and light snacks, yoga practices, guided journalling, facilitated discussions and group activities.

Rooms can be reserved for single or double occupancy. I’ve already had a few registrations (yay… my social media is reaching folks!) and if you’re thinking of coming solo, I have one guest who is open to sharing the triple room.

Every meal is freshly prepared by the experienced kitchen staff, and most dietary requirements can be accommodated.

This may be the perfect holiday gift from you to you!!

Prices increase December 6, and my retreats tend to sell out.

Learn more and book today before prices go up!