Hi, and thanks so much for visiting my site! My name is Renée Canada, and I’m a certified health coach, yoga instructor and health journalist with The Mind-Body Shift. I specialize in managing pain and stress, increasing energy, reducing inflammation and boosting immunity. I also focus on how to improve overall health and wellness through nutrition and lifestyle changes.
My approach is holistic, focusing on the body, mind and soul. One of the biggest reasons I believe so strongly in what I teach and share is because I’ve used the same tools to transform my own health and wellbeing—from the inside out.
I live with an autoimmune disease called lupus and a neuromuscular disorder called dystonia. The two combined affect pain and energy levels, as well as balance, coordination and mobility. Over time, however, I have gained the perspective and tools necessary to keep these conditions from preventing me from living a full and happy life. That’s why I want so desperately to share what I’ve learned with others.
My Background
I am a certified sport yoga instructor through the National Exercise and Sports Trainers Association. I’m also trained in Core Strength Vinyasa Yoga and SloBody Yoga, with an emphasis on anatomy, biomechanics and safe and stable alignment within each pose and through smooth, fluid transitions. I am currently completing my 300-hour Hatha Yoga and 320-Hour Restorative Yoga Teacher Trainings. Additionally, I am training in transformational meditation, acupressure for self healing, qigong, and Tai Chi for Better Balance.
My Approach
Each of one of us has our own strengths and challenges, with varying levels of mobility, flexibility, balance and brawn. As a strongly believer in bio-individuality, I don’t follow a one-size-fits-all approach. With training in multiple mind-body practices under different schools of teaching, I am better equipped to modify your practice to meet your unique abilities and needs.
Classes and Private Sessions
I am available for 1-on-1 and small group, private sessions—in person or remotely, through Skype or Google Hangouts. Contact me for more information.
What Is Sport Yoga
Sport Yoga combines ancient and modern exercises to promote balance and strength on a physical, mental and spiritual level. The practice draws from Hatha yoga, tai chi and Pilates mat exercises, as well Kung-Fu warm-up routines and traditional sport stretches and warm-ups. Meditation, with breath work, is also a crucial component to the practice. Sport yoga provides a unique workout for both athletes and everyday people looking to improve their overall level of fitness.
Incorporating sport yoga into their training, athletes experience increased range of motion and coordination, as well reduced risk of injuries.
Benefits of Sport Yoga
- Builds strength and improves lean muscle mass
- Enhances core body stability
- Increases range of motion
- Boosts stamina and endurance
- Improves body awareness and coordination
- Relaxes the body—loosens joints and lengthens muscles
- Corrects muscular imbalances and helps prevent injury
- Aids safe recovery from injuries
- Promotes mental clarity and better focus
- Releases stress
- Promotes better sleep
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