Studio reopening June 22 … we’re counting the sleeps

Can you believe it’s been nearly two and a half months since we’ve been together in our beautiful studio? That’s a long time in your personal yoga practice. Some of us have been zooming our way through (pardon the pun), others have been trying new things and some have enjoyed a restful break. Whatever your choice in isolation, we hope it’s felt right for you. 

We’re excited that we now have a date in sight to reopen, June 22. This is in-line with Victorian government regulations around gyms and fitness centres and will come with a number of operational changes, but we know yogis are an adaptable bunch and mostly we’ll all just be grateful to be back in our warm, friendly space.

In order to adhere to all recommendations, you can expect the following changes at Yoga Spot Fairfield. Please note some of these are short-term measures, like limited class sizes and a reduced timetable, and others will remain. We’ll keep you posted of changes as we go. Upon reopening, our number one priority is to provide a safe space that you feel comfortable to enter, where we can get on with the business of moving and breathing together, where our community can connect and you can drop into your natural state of bliss, both on and off the mat.  

  • A reduced timetable
  • Limit of 10 students per class – bookings essential – no walk ins
  • Social distancing floor markers – 1.5m minimum gap between mats
  • No shows and late cancellations will be penalised
  • No mat hire. BYO and a clean, full length towel
  • No props. BYO
  • No mat wipe cloths. BYO
  • No hands-on adjustments by teachers
  • Showers and kitchen facilities closed
  • Studio will open just 15 minutes before class

We can’t wait to see you all back in the studio. Until then we’ll continue to livestream three classes per week. If you haven’t already, please join us for a session. Drop in rate is just $12. If you’re keen to re-establish your practice before we open, sign up to our $25 a week livestream membership which includes access to 3 live classes per week, plus an exclusive members-only Facebook group with the ability to catch up on classes at a time that suits, and a bonus, high-quality pre-recorded class every Sunday.

BUY A PASS OR SIGN UP HERE

In-studio bookings will open on Thursday June 18 and we’ll be in touch with a reminder before that date. Below is an extensive list of FAQs regarding our reopening and your membership/class pass status.

REOPENING FAQs

What happens with my membership?
All memberships will be reinstated automatically on June 22. An email will be sent shortly to all members with further details. If you do not wish to return to the studio the week starting Monday June 22, please contact us via email now or upon receipt of the members-only email and we will continue your suspension. You MUST contact us though or your membership/pass will be reinstated.

I’m currently a Yoga Spot Fairfield Livestream member, what happens to my membership?
If you’ve stuck with us throughout this livestreaming period you will be contacted directly. Our hearts are full of gratitude for your continued support.

I had a 5/10 class pass OR a 1 month/3 months/12 month unlimited pass. Will it be extended?
Yes. All passes mentioned above will be extended by 3 months, to reflect time the studio has been physically closed. If you’d like to be reminded of the original or revised expiry date on your pass, send us an email here or ask your teacher when signing into class.

I bought a 14/28-day intro offer before you closed and haven’t used it. Can I activate it now?
Yes. If your pass wasn’t activated it will still be sitting on your account. You can use your intro offer to book classes in-studio or livestream. However, whilst our class numbers are restricted, you can only book three in-studio sessions a week for reasons outlined below (see I’m a Yoga Spot Fairfield member. Why can I only book three in-studio classes per week?).

I was mid-way through an intro offer or one-month trial when you closed. What happens to my pass?
Of course we’ll honour the time you had remaining on your pass, whether it was days or weeks. But the three in-studio class rule will be imposed. If you’re not yet ready to return or would prefer to wait and use your pass when we’re back to a full timetable, just send us an email and we can organise. 

I bought a livestream 10-pass but haven’t used them all. I’d like to return to in-studio classes. What happens now?
As below, we’ll continue to offer a few livestream classes a week on the timetable. You can use your pass for these, or drop us an email and we’ll credit any unused livestream classes towards in-studio classes, on a 2:1 basis.

I love livestream classes, will they continue?
Yes. Once we reopen our focus will shift to mostly in-studio classes but we’ll keep two livestream Yin classes a week. Always check the timetable on our website or in MindBody to see if a class is in the studio or livestreamed.
We’re also working on a platform to house our collection of recorded classes, and in time these will be available as part of your full Yoga Spot Fairfield membership, as a separate online membership (think $29 a month), and possibly, as an on-demand single fee class.

Why do I now have to book to attend classes?
Government-imposed limits of 10 people per class means we can’t accommodate everyone. Booking through MindBody will secure your spot. If you can’t attend you MUST cancel yourself out and allow someone else to use the spot. Failure to do so will result in lost classes and financial penalty. More details to come on this. 

I’m a Yoga Spot Fairfield member. Why can I only book three in-studio classes per week?
Restricted class sizes mean not everyone can attend a class every day. By limiting the number of classes you can book/attend, we’re ensuring everyone in our community has the chance to practice in-studio with us. This is a temporary measure only and will be reviewed as soon as limitations on class sizes are lifted. 

Can I bring my own props?
Absolutely. But you MUST clean them before and after class (we will provide antibacterial wipes). If you have your own bolster please still bring a full length towel to use with it.

What extra measures are you taking to keep the studio clean and safe?
We’ve always had incredibly high cleaning standards. The onset of COVID-19 was an opportunity to raise this bar even higher. And now, as we return, we take it up another notch. 
All surfaces and high traffic areas will be wiped with antibacterial disinfectant before and after class, the studio will be deep-cleaned multiple times a week and we will continue to provide hand sanitizers and hand wash at entry and exit points, in toilets, etc.
We are also restricting access to things like props, shared towels, the kitchen and showers to ensure minimal transference. 
As has become the norm, if you are feeling unwell or showing any signs of COVID-19, please stay at home and isolate, and we will do the same. Teachers will have full permission to turn anyone away from the studio who they think shouldn’t be there.

Why can’t I stick around and talk with my yogi friends or the teacher after class?
Unfortunately our reception area isn’t very big so to keep in line with social distancing rules we need to limit the amount of people in the space at once. We love our community and can’t wait to sit down and have a cuppa and a chat on the couch. But for now, we’ll have to make use of our wonderful local cafes and restaurants to catch up in, and we thank you in advance for your co-operation.

How do waitlists work?
If a class is fully booked, there are three spots available on the waitlist. We suggest always putting your name on the waitlist, in the likely event someone will cancel. You will receive an email notification if a place becomes available, and your attendance will be assumed.

What are the penalties for late cancellations and no-shows?
You are able to cancel or change your booking up to three hours before class via your MindBody account. Late cancellations beyond that point will be charged at $10 per class, and no-shows $20 per class (members and those on unlimited passes). Yogis on a casual, 5 or 10-class pass will forfeit that class. Cancellations via phone or email will NOT be accepted.

Livestream yoga classes – we’re online!

Starting Monday April 6 – and again on Friday July 10 – Yoga Spot Fairfield is officially moving online. Here’s everything you need to know…

How does livestreaming yoga work?

Step 1) To join a livestream class, book as normal via the MindBody app or through our Timetable page. Note: You must book at least 30 mins before class starts.

Step 2) Download this free Zoom software to your computer or mobile device. 15-30 mins prior to class, keep an eye on your inbox for an email from yogaspotlivestream@gmail.com which will include a link to join a Zoom meeting. Save this address in your contacts list to ensure we don’t land in your spam or junk folder!

Step 3) Roll out your yoga mat, put on some tunes and gather all the props you might need. Think bolster/block/strap or a cushion, thick book and tie or scarf for improvising.

Step 4) Join the livestream class up to 10 minutes prior to class start time. Mute yourself on entry if you desire. 

Step 5) Enjoy! Class starts promptly at designated time.

Your pricing options 

Maximum support – Livestream weekly membership, $25 p/wk

Includes access to:

3 livestream yoga classes per week with all your favourite Yoga Spot Fairfield teachers.

Unlimited access to 50+ on-demand classes from our previous lockdown, including high-quality pre-recorded sequences with all your favourite Yoga Spot Fairfield teachers (via Facebook).

An exclusive members-only Facebook group where we’ll share more yoga content, tips, articles, music suggestions AND links to catch up on the week’s livestream classes (which means you can practice at a time that best suits YOU).

Note: There is no minimum contract term on this membership.

Great value – Livestream 10 class pass, $100

Includes access to:

10 livestream yoga classes of your choice.

Keep it casual – Livestream drop-in class, $12

Includes access to:

1 livestream yoga class of your choice.

It is our hope that the online timetable will grow and expand with our online community so please get behind us in this. Our teachers will be paid for all livestream classes so it’s also our way to support them through this incredibly tough period, when most have entirely lost their source of income. 

PURCHASE HERE

Frequently asked questions

Q: I already have a Yoga Spot Fairfield membership, do I still need to purchase an online pass?

A: All memberships were indefinitely suspended on March 23 – and again on July 9 – when we announced our temporary pause. If you’d like to reinstate your regular membership we’d be ever so grateful for the support, and you can absolutely use it to access livestream classes and all the other membership benefits above. Or you can sign up to the new $25 weekly membership. Send us an email via our Contact page if you would like to reinstate.

Q: I already have an unlimited (1/3/12mth) or multi-class pass (5/10-class pass). Do I still need to purchase an online pass?

A: Yes, you can use these options to join livestream classes, you will not need to purchase anything extra. There is of course a price difference, so if you would prefer to purchase a new (and more economical) online pass that’s entirely up to you. If your existing pass remains unused, we will of course extend the expiry date to honour time missed during our temporary closure.

Q: How do I access the members-only Facebook group?

A: Access to this group is by request only. Please click here for a link to the page, make sure you’re signed into your Facebook account, and send us a prompt asking to join. We’ll approve it within 24 hours.

Massoga® Massage Yoga – event postponed

Massage Yoga Yoga Fairfield

NOTE: This event has been postponed until further notice, due to COVID-19 precautions. We’ll let you know as soon as a new date is scheduled.

We’re very excited the folks from Massoga® Massage Yoga are bringing their style of Yin and intuitive touch to Yoga Spot Fairfield.

What is it?

Massoga® is a unique and magical practice to help you reach a deeper level of connection, relaxation and release. It’s a fully immersive experience with essential oils, music, yoga props and intelligent sequencing designed to give you deeper awareness of your body and mind, all combined with intuitive touch.

What to expect

Your teacher will guide you through a restorative Yin Yoga practice, while yoga adjustors and massage therapists provide expert hands-on adjustment and massage. This creates the perfect setting for deep release and relaxation. There’s a 1:4 therapist/student ratio which ensures plenty of hands-on attention.

Sessions run for two hours, and bookings are essential. Bookings must close 3 days prior to the immersion â€“ this is to ensure we book the correct number of massage adjustors for the session. So don’t wait to confirm your spot. Open to all, first-time yogis especially welcome!

THE DETAILS
When: To be advised
Where: Yoga Spot Fairfield, 70 Station St, Fairfield 3078
Investment: $79

Embodied Flow workshop – Saturday March 7 with Laura Escudero

Embodied Flow is an integrative blend of hatha yoga, somatics, movement meditation, tantric philosophy and transpersonal psychology that elicits the experience of stepping into flow as meditation in action.

This workshop, lead by Yoga Spot Fairfield teacher Laura Escudero, is designed to help bring practitioners into a flow state by working with areas of the body that are proven to relate to optimal states of flow – an experience similar to athletes or musicians being ‘in the zone’.

Immersing ourselves into moment-to-moment presence allows the full spectrum of our awareness to be harnessed. The subject and object in states of flow can merge, creating a time/space blur. Transforming meditation into movement gives us a repeatable practice to glide with more presence and ease through transitions, both on and off our yoga mat.

This workshop will use asana, meditation, free movement, chanting and journalling, with the intention to deliver participants into a flow state that creates an easeful, optimal dance through life.

Yogis can expect to: 

– Gain a better understanding of flow states and uncover optimal levels for productivity and creativity.

– Learn about yogic philosophy and cosmology and how to integrate these into daily life.

– Explore a range of physical practices including slow flow yoga and free movement in order to challenge and expand ideas around form and shape.

You’ll leave feeling present with an energised focus, at ease, confident and free.

THE DETAILS
When: Saturday March 7, 1.30-3.30pm
Where: Yoga Spot Fairfield, 70 Station St, Fairfield 3078
Investment: $45 full, $36 Yoga Spot Fairfield members


Prenatal Yoga Course – starts Saturday March 7

Our six-week prenatal course is designed to equip mamas-to-be with tools, tricks and tips to instil an inner sense of trust, calm and confidence on their journey towards motherhood. 

Prenatal yoga offers women a chance to bond with their developing babies and their blossoming bodies, connect to their mama-bear intuition and instincts, and provides practical tools to feel confident and trust in the magical process of creating life. Pregnancy is a time to nurture and connect, as well as to strengthen and stabilise; to tap into a woman’s innate power to become a mother – a temple of courage, compassion and fierce love. 

The course includes the following:

Yoga asana: modified for each stage of pregnancy to create space, strength and stamina and to prepare you physically and mentally for birth. We’ll discuss labouring positions and take in movements to encourage optimal foetal positioning. We’ll also provide you with basic do’s and don’ts of a safe physical yoga practice during pregnancy and ways to integrate these into ‘regular’ yoga classes.

Breath work: including yogic pranayama and hypno-birthing techniques to facilitate a sense of calm, focus, relaxation and presence during all stages of pregnancy and birth.

Vocal toning, affirmations and mantra: an opportunity to self-sooth, build assurance and explore self-expression through the use of voice.

Guided meditation and visualisation techniques: unwind and connect with bub and learn tools to assist in labour by stimulating release, opening and ease. Also helps increase focus and vitality and builds mental and emotional confidence and stamina.

Our prenatal course is an opportunity to embrace this exciting stage in a safe and supportive environment, and to empower yourself by learning about your changing body. It also enables you to connect with a community of other expecting mothers to share experiences and concerns.

It’s never too early or late to start, this course is ideal for all expectant mothers at any stage of pregnancy. However, we do advise:

–    If you are new to yoga, we encourage you to begin in your second trimester, as it’s not recommended to take up any new physical activity in your first trimester.

–    Ensure you are cleared by a doctor to practice physical activity prior to commencing this course.

–    If you are experiencing any conditions or complications, even if you have been cleared by a doctor/OB, please take time to chat with us prior to commencing the course so that we can offer you the best experience for you, your body and baby.

–   Lastly, we believe in mutual responsibility; your teacher has the responsibility to guide a safe practice and offer alternatives, you have the responsibility to listen to your body and only partake in what feels okay within your personal ability each day.

Note: Class will be capped at 14, with a minimum of 8 registered participants for course to run.

THE DETAILS

Dates: Saturday Mar 7 – Sat Apr 11, 11am-12pm

Investment: $120 for six-week course

Beginners Yoga Series – starts Thursday February 20, 7.30pm

Join Mohit for this six-week series and explore the foundations of Hatha yoga in a non-heated room – perfect for beginners or those returning to yoga after some time away.

Week-by-week you’ll break down elements of the practice, discuss basic yoga terms and establish an understanding of correct alignment and technique.

Small class numbers will ensure personal attention and assists, and participants will receive handouts recapping the week’s class for home use and review. 

This series is perfect if you want to:

  • Gain confidence on the mat
  • Build bodily strength and tone
  • Better manage stress and anxiety
  • Tune into your breath 

We know what it’s like to be reluctant to jump into a Hot Yoga or Vinyasa Flow class – or to attend those classes but still feel like a fish out of water. This series is the ideal preparation for our more dynamic offerings.

Can’t attend every week? No problem – either make-up the class with your choice from our timetable, or re-join a session on the next available series.

THE DETAILS

Dates: Thursday Feb 20 – Thursday Mar 26, 7.30-8.30pm

Investment: $120 for six week course or $160 + 2 extra classes per week

Note: Class will be capped at 12, with a minimum of 8 registered participants for series to run. Extra classes option must be used within timeframe of Beginners Series.

Option 1 –

Option 2 –


Yogi’s Day Out @ Bellarine Estate, Saturday February 15

Join us on Saturday February 15 for a relaxing day amongst the vines at the beautiful Bellarine Estate on the Bellarine Peninsula. You’ll enjoy yoga, wine tasting, indulge in share platters and meet wine-loving yogis. This event is an amazing day trip from Melbourne. BYO yoga mat (or pre-book a hired mat). 

Your yoga and winery tour starts in Melbourne Docklands, where Megan will meet and greet you at the ferry departure point to the Bellarine Peninsula. Upon arrival in Portarlington, a short bus ride will take us to Bellarine Estate winery, where we’ll stay for the day.

AT THE WINERY
You will get your appetite going with a 60-min indoor or outdoor yoga class, followed by a guided wine tasting in the cellar door. During the wine tasting, indulge in a relaxed lunch with delicious shared platters including a glass of vino on the house. All this will be paired with plenty of laughter and inspiring conversations.

YOGA AND WINE TOUR ITINERARY
10.15 – Arrive at Docklands ferry departure point
10.40 – Depart Docklands with Port Phillip Ferries (ensure you arrive at least 20 min early)*
12.00 – Arrive Portarlington, transfer to shuttle bus
12.15 – Arrive at Bellarine Estate with shuttle transfer
12.30 – Vinyasa yoga class with Megan
13.40 – Guided wine tasting incl. share platters and wine served in cellar door
16.00 – Depart Bellarine Estate to Ferry
16.15 – Drop off at Portarlington Ferry
16.30 – Ferry departs to Docklands
18.00 – Arrival Docklands
* Changes to schedules and times by Port Phillip Ferries are outside of our control

INCLUSIONS
• Meet and greet at the ferry departure point
• Return ferry from Docklands to Portarlington
• Return bus from Portarlington to Bellarine Estate
• 60 min outdoor or indoor yoga (weather dependent)
• Guided seated wine tasting at Bellarine Estate
• Sharing style grazing platters during wine tasting (vegetarian options available)
• Glass of Bellarine Estate wine of choice

INVESTMENT
$117 Yoga Spot Fairfield members (direct debit or 12 months up-front)
$130 full

Bushfire Fundraiser – Sat January 18

Join Megan Gamble and Jules Jenkinson for this special fundraising event, with all proceeds donated to bushfire relief efforts and the Cobargo Wildlife Sanctuary in NSW. 

1pm-2.30pm: Yang to Yin class with Megan and Jules (details below)

2.30-3pm: Afternoon tea donated by Kissaten, beverages by Hart & Soul

3pm-4pm: Optional vision boarding activity

Cobargo was decimated by fire on New Years Eve and this small sanctuary, run by Gary Henderson and Sara Tilling, was razored to the ground. Gary and Sara have been sleeping in the one shed that was still standing on their property and caring for injured kangaroos around the clock, without a thought to their own predicament or wellbeing. We think people like that deserve a helping hand and hence have chosen to donate everything we raise to their cause. You can read more about them here.

The fundraiser will begin with an all-levels, 90-minute Yang to Yin class. Jules will take you through a dynamic, flowing sequence to get the blood pumping and create a state of gratitude in your mind and body. Megan will then share some long, meditative Yin holds to balance your Qi (energy) and move you towards your more purposeful, compassionate self for the new year ahead.

After yoga we’ll convene for a vegetarian and vegan-friendly afternoon tea and conversation, with catering generously donated by our friends at Kissaten (538-540 Heidelberg Rd) and beverages by Sarah from Hart & Soul. 

We’ll also have a bunch of art supplies on-hand for those who are keen to hang around and create a vision board expressing their hopes and desires for the new year – as was our intention with the original event on this date, New Year, New Mood. 

Come for yoga, come for afternoon tea, or come for vision boarding. The choice is yours.

Minimum suggested donation: $15 – to be paid upon arrival (cash or card)

If you can’t make it on the day but still want to contribute, we’ll be accepting donations throughout the week at reception. We’re also putting out the call for towels and blankets for several wildlife shelters, including Wildhaven Wildlife Shelter (St Andrews, Vic). Second-hand is ok. You can donate these at reception.

BOOKINGS REQUIRED – PLEASE SIGN UP ONLINE AS YOU WOULD FOR A NORMAL CLASS, OR IN-STUDIO

Yoga + Lunch + Wine: A social event, Saturday November 23

This November we’re bringing together three of our all-time favourite things: yoga, food and wine, in another delicious and social collaboration with our friends from Retreat Here.

Join us on Saturday November 23 for an all-levels Vinyasa Flow class, before we re-group around the corner at 15 Pounds for a nourishing vegetarian lunch and glass of wine.

It’s a wonderful opportunity to get to know your fellow yogis, to share in conversations about how much you enjoy your practice, and discover more about the interesting lives you lead away from the mat.

Yoga and wine gatherings such as these have become a specialty offering for Retreat Here, so we are very excited to bring our two communities together. If nothing else, the afternoon is a great way to get a yoga class in, meet some new people, and unwind with a vino.

Bookings essential, spaces are limited. Open to all levels – everyone welcome.

WHEN? Saturday November 23. Doors open 12pm, Vinyasa class 12.15pm – 1.15pm, Lunch, wine and socialising 1.30pm onwards
HOW MUCH? $60 ($48 for Yoga Spot Fairfield members). Price includes yoga class, shared lunch and a glass of wine.
WHERE? Yoga Spot Fairfield, 70 Station St & 15 Pounds Cafe, 21-23 Railway Place, Fairfield

Bingo Yoga Challenge – join us this November!

Yogis! It’s time for our first-ever Yoga Challenge. And in the spirit of how we do things at Yoga Spot Fairfield, it’s a fun one – Bingo Yoga!

Join us from November 1-30 to explore this practice both on and off the mat. Every time you take a class you’ll complete a mini task and can cross a square off your bingo card.

There’s 14 minor prizes on offer for those who get bingo first (e.g. complete the diagonal or a column) and everyone with a completed bingo card at the end of the month goes in the draw to win a 3 month membership ($480).

There’s 25 squares in total on your bingo card and we don’t expect you’ll be in every single day of the month, but these Challenges are designed to draw you deeper into your practice and provide extra motivation to hit the mat. They’re also a wonderful way to get to know your fellow yogis. We’re really looking forward to this one and hope you are too.

Entry is FREE for members (also those on a 3mth or 12mth unlimited pass) or $99 non-members which includes a month of unlimited yoga classes.