Yoga

Is yoga just stretching?

A common myth is that yoga is just a stretching class. Depending on the class style, yoga can be a physically demanding, even aerobic, workout that purposely works to restore balance to the body. Though there is an element of stretching involved, yoga is more about creating balance in the body by developing both strength and flexibility through a series of postures. Each posture has its own specific physical benefits. These postures can be done slowly to focus on correct alignment and increase stamina, or they can be done in a flowing succession that helps to create heat in the body. Breathwork is incorporated in every class in order to help us breathe more fully and deeply. Yoga also helps us to create space in our minds by allowing us to let go of old thoughts, burdens, and stresses.

What does the word yoga mean?

The word yoga means “union” in Sanskrit. Sanskrit is the language of ancient India, where yoga originated. In yoga, we can think of union as joining the mind, body, and spirit as one whole. In simple terms, we are becoming more aware of the physical sensations in our body, our breath, and our thoughts.

Is yoga a religion?

Yoga is not a religion. It is not necessary to study any particular religion or philosophy to practice yoga. Our students are of all faiths and yoga can help deepen your spiritual life and higher values no matter what your religion is. There is divinity in all people and things; yoga encourages you to share in this. Yoga finds its origin in philosophy and ancient texts developed in India 5,000 years ago. Sometimes yoga practice is combined with philosophies from Buddhism or Hinduism, but the joy of yoga is that it promotes union within yourself and meets you where you need it the most. What you choose to focus on is up to you, whether it be the physical, mental, or spiritual aspects of the practice. If you choose to focus on the spiritual, yoga can assist you on your journey to more clearly understand your true self your specific place in the universe.

I don’t want a physically-demanding class, can you help me?

We do offer more gentle classes that focus on lengthening muscles, stretching connective tissues, improving range of motion, and restoring body and mind overall. Our Glow Yin, or Peaceful Restoration, or Gentle Yogi Bliss classes are suggested.

I’m brand-new to yoga. How do I start?

Yoga is accessible to everyone. At Bliss, we offer foundational classes that teach you the basics and help you feel comfortable. The majority of our classes are suitable for all levels, but we do have classes specifically designed for the beginner in mind. A good place to start is with our Gentle Yogi Bliss or Blissful Glow Beginner classes. Alternatively, we regularly offer 5-week pre-registered Intro to Yoga workshops; these are taught by the same instructor each week to afford them the opportunity to get to know you and offer guidance specific to your needs. We also offer private yoga sessions for small groups if you prefer to learn in a more intimate setting. To find the class that is best for you, please read our class descriptions and check out the schedule to see which time works for you. We recommend that you read through our etiquette sections so that you know what to bring to class, feel prepared, and come ready to learn. Please drop by the studio or call with any questions you may have - our ambassadors are well-equipped to make your experience pleasurable. If you have any health concerns, please consult with your physician prior to attending a class.

Can I do yoga even though I am not flexible?

Yes, you can! In fact, if you have tight muscles, yoga is the perfect thing to help loosen you up as you become flexible by practicing consistently. The purpose of yoga is not to show off how flexible you are, but rather to gain flexibility over time and enjoy the many other health benefits that yoga offers. Yoga is not a competitive sport, but a form of movement that can be adapted to the needs of your body. In yoga, there is not a singular definition or picture of the final posture; it is all about listening to your body and finding a position that feels right for you. You do not need to look like yoga models twisted into pretzels in order create a personal yoga practice!

What are the benefits of yoga?

With a regular yoga practice, you can expect to see physical changes in your strength, flexibility, weight, and overall body tone. These changes are great, but the benefits of yoga are more than skin-deep. Expect reduced stress levels, improved sleep patterns, relieved depression, lower blood pressure, better mental focus, and a greater ability to connect with your body. Leaving relaxed, a little lighter, and ready to tackle whatever life brings are some of the many added rewards of your practice. Yoga brings awareness to your sense of “being,” allowing you to tune into your body’s sensations and gain a deeper insight into taking better care of yourself.

Do I need to make a reservation or should I just show up for class?

The choice is yours. You are welcome to drop into the studio anytime. Our ambassador team will help set up an account for you and check you in before class. If it is your first time to our studio, we recommend that you arrive 15–20 minutes before your class to ensure that you have a spot in the class and that you have been educated about Bliss. If you prefer to reserve your spot ahead of time, you can create an account and sign in online - this guarantees your spot in the class. You will still need to check in at arrival with the ambassador team at the front desk to confirm your reservation.

Can I share my pass with friends and family?

Regrettably not. Our software system does not allow for the sharing of passes between client accounts.

How often should I go to yoga?

How often you practice is a personal preference. As with many things, the more regularly you practice, the more benefits you are likely to feel and see; consistency is the key. A good start is 2–3 times per week. However, attending less frequently is better than not going at all. Any amount of practice is beneficial and will leave you feeling better than how you did walking in the door.

Which class pass best suits my needs?

Bliss MediSpa offers a 10,20 and 40 class pass. The cost per class is discounted at a higher rate as the number of classes in a pass is increased. We recommend estimating your annual needs to receive the most value from your pass purchase. Class passes expire 365 days following the date of first use. A 40 class pass is ideal for someone attending yoga roughly once a week. 

We also have a two month unlimited pass, which expires 60 days following the date of first use. This pass is the most economically ideal for someone attending yoga class 3 or more times per week.

Can I practice too much?

Please listen to your body. If you are free from fatigue, illness, or injury, and your body is loving yoga, feel free to practice as often as you wish. However, if your body needs the break, honour that and rest.

What should I eat before I go to yoga?

Being on-the-go may make it hard to adapt your meal schedule to your yoga routine. A general rule is to not come to class on a full stomach. Keep in mind that you will be bending and twisting your body; consider how your body - particularly your stomach - will feel doing that. You should eat something small within the hour prior to class; this snack should consist of a combination of protein and carbohydrates. You should be well-hydrated for class, especially for any heated class. 

I always hear my teacher say a strange word at the end of class. What does it mean?

You may hear your teacher say “namaste” to close the class. The teacher initiates “namaste” as a symbol of gratitude and respect towards his/her students. This word is then repeated back by the students. Namaste is a gesture meaning “I bow to you” or “the divine in me bows to the divine in you.” It is simply a friendly gesture and a way to acknowledge each other. It is a personal choice whether you participate or not.

What is Live Stream?

Live Stream is a way that you can join us from home for our in-studio live classes! The class is taught at the studio at a specified time. You can take the same class at home that is offered at the studio. It is not recorded and can only be accessed at the specified time of the class.

How do I sign up for Live Stream?

Sign up for Live Stream via our Mindbody schedule just as you would for our other classes. You will receive an email with the link to that class prior to the start of class. ***Be sure that your email address and password are correct on your Mindbody account.***

I cannot connect to the Live Stream.

From a PC or Mac Computer download the Mindbody Live app here: https://video.mindbody.io/download

  • Google Chrome and/or Safari 13+ are the recommended browsers for Live Stream. Be sure to have the most up to date version of your browser.
  • Refresh the browser and allow access to your computer/camera/microphone.
  • On Apple products, disable the Pop-up blocker under Settings>Safari>General>Block popups OR on the Live Stream screen tap the aA button in the top left then ’Request Desktop Website’

What is Video on Demand?

Video on Demand is our library full of pre-recorded classes. Every month we add 8-10 new classes for you to enjoy. You can access these at any time and any place. This feature can be added to our regular passes. Go to the Prices page for the description of the fees.

Laser Hair Removal

How does laser hair removal work?

Laser and bi-polar radio frequency (RF) energies go directly to the root to damage the hair follicle without damaging the skin. Lasers target melanin (colour) in the hair. In the active-growth cycle of hair (about 10–15%), the heat from the laser penetrates to the root or follicle and permanently disables the hair. The result is less hair growing back, while other hair is stunted but still growing. This is why an individual will need an average of 6–8 treatments for 70–90% reduction. ­­­­­The number of treatments will be influenced by the amount of hair present, skin colour, and adherence to a rigid treatment schedule.

Does it hurt?

For most people, laser hair removal is a fairly comfortable procedure. For those who are sensitive, your Bliss MediSpa laser technician will take the time to cool and numb the top superficial layers of the treated area to help alleviate any discomfort.

How many treatments will I need?

The average number of treatments is 6–8.

How often do I need to get treatments?

For facial and underarm hair, treatments are required every 4–6 weeks. For body hair, treatments are needed every 6–8 weeks.

How do I determine my skin type and will this affect my treatment?

Laser hair removal can be applied to all areas of the body and on all skin types, even tanned or dark skin (with caution). Unfortunately, the laser cannot remove gray or platinum-blonde hair.

What type of machine do you use?

At Bliss, we have two lasers: the eMax and the GentleMax Pro. Syneron’s eMax features proprietary elos™, which combines the energy technology of bi-polar Radio Frequency (RF) with both light and diode-laser energies. eMax successfully treats a wider range of hair colours and all skin tones with many proven applications. The Candela GentleMax Pro is a dual-wavelength laser platform that combines the fastest and most powerful 755-nm premier laser with the Nd:YAG 1064-nm laser for high-performance treatment capabilities in terms of speed, efficacy, ease of use, outstanding performance, safety, and patient satisfaction.

Skin Rejuvenation

How does elos™ work?

The combined bi-polar radio frequency and light energies precisely and safely target pigmented lesions such as freckles, sun spots, and age spots. Vascular lesions, such as spider veins and redness from rosacea, are also lightened.

When can I expect to see results?

Gradual and cumulative improvement of skin tone is typically achieved in 5 treatments. The total number of treatments depends upon your skin’s condition.

Does it hurt?

Cooling of the skin surface ensures additional safely during treatment. There is no downtime.

VelaShape

How does VelaShape work?

VelaShape uses elos technology which combines energies to precisely target and heat fatty tissues within the treatment area. In addition, the vacuum and tissue manipulation evens out the skin to reveal a tighter, smoother figure.

Which areas of the body can be treated?

VelaShape can be performed on areas such as the abdomen, thighs, flanks, buttocks, triceps and bra-line. The V-Smooth is used to reduce the appearance of cellulite and the V-Contour is designed to treat small pockets of fat.

How long will it take to notice results?

Most clients see gradual improvement of the treated area following the first treatment. The skin’s surface will appear tighter, firmer, and smoother. Results in cellulite-reduction and circumference will be most apparent 6-8 weeks following the final treatment.

How often do I come in for VelaShape treatments?

Treatments should be performed at 1-week intervals for the first 6 treatments. Maintenance is performed at 1-month, 6-weeks, 8-weeks, 3-months, and then semi-yearly or yearly depending on lifestyle.

How many inches can I expect to lose?

In clinical trials, the range of circumferential reduction was between 1/2 to 3 inches. In clinical studies, patients report an average of approximately 1 inch reduction following a treatment series.

How do I improve and maintain my VelaShape results?

We recommend maintenance treatments periodically, following the complete treatment regimen. Like all non-surgical or surgical techniques, results will last longer if you follow a balanced diet and exercise regularly.

Is VelaShape safe?

VelaShape is an FDA-approved device which is safe and effective for all skin types and colors. There are no reported short or long-term health effects. You can rest assured knowing all treatments are performed by a physician-supervised VelaShape specialist.

Is this treatment right for me?

Studies show that 80% of all women over the age of 20 have cellulite, regardless of their shape or size. VelaShape is perfect to enhance your figure and is a great alternative to liposuction.

Does the treatment hurt?

Most clients find VelaShape treatments to be comfortable, like a warm deep-tissue massage. The treatment is designed to accommodate your comfort level and sensitivity.

How will I feel after the treatment?

It is normal for the treated area to feel tight and have a mildly warm sensation for up to a few hours following the treatment. In some cases, mild redness can be observed for several hours.

Why can’t my skin be tanned when I am getting treatments?

Tanning increases the melanin in the skin. Increased melanin in the treated area holds additional heat in your skin which can cause discomfort and result in a less effective treatment. It is best to avoid sunless tanning products for 2 weeks prior to a VelaShape treatment and to let your tan fade for 2 weeks before a treatment.

What are the advantages of VelaShape compared to other treatments?

There are no other methods available today that include a combination of bi-polar radio frequency, infrared light, vacuum, and mechanical massage like VelaShape. VelaShape is the only non-surgical medical device cleared by the FDA for circumferential reduction, with clinically-proven results in as little as 4 treatments.

Who cannot get VelaShape treatments?

  • Individuals who have been taking Accutane in the past 6 months
  • A test spot may need to be performed for individuals who have been taking oral medications which cause sun sensitivity.
  • Individuals with lupus, MS, pace-makers, skin cancer, or cardiovascular problems.
  • Women who are pregnant or breast-feeding.
  • Women who have had C-sections in the past 6 months.
  • VelaShape can be performed 6 weeks following liposuction with your physician’s written consent.
  • We cannot treat directly over metal implants.