Suzanne Grancan was injured in an accident more than 10 years ago that left her barely able to walk for nearly two years.  She gained over 100 lb and went from doctor to doctor, all who only gave her prescriptions.  Then she tried acupuncture and yoga and was “cured” in six months. Since yoga helped her so much, she decided to use it to help others by starting a yoga program especially for plus sized women, first in Vancouver where she was living in the early 2000s, and now here in Toronto.  Yoga Zone Plus gives plus sized women a safe and comfortable place to practice yoga.  Classes are $20 each and last for 60 minutes – a little bit shorter than many standard yoga classes, which generally are 90 minutes long.  Postures are also adapted for those who are curvier.  Classes are also much smaller, with a maximum of nine people.

Instructor Mary Ghandi (right) assists an attendee

Though I am not plus sized, I was recently invited to try one of Suzanne’s sessions.  The class was held at Twist Yoga Studio on Bathurst and Bloor and taught by the program’s instructor, Mary Ghandi.  Suzanne was also there to help Mary out.  With both Mary and Suzanne up front, the class was able to see postures from the front as well as profile, giving attendees a better perspective of it is done.  We were led through a series of postures, including many of the standards including Tree, Chair, Downward Dog and Warrior.  We also had props to help us if we needed them.  It was a very relaxing session and my body definitely thanked me afterwards.

After the class, we were treated to snacks and had a short question and answer period with Mary and Suzanne where we were also able to provide some input and suggestions for the classes.  It was also interesting to hear how and where Suzanne wants to take her business.  She has had a lot of very positive input from the plus size community and there has even been interest from non-blogging media, including outlets outside of Toronto.

Delicious post-yoga snacks

I wish Suzanne the very best of luck in her initiative.  There are many people who want to take yoga, but might be uncomfortable at a standard class.  Yoga Plus Zone would be a great option for them.