Testimonials
I’m loving the teacher training program. The teachers are excellent and I appreciate the thoughtful, intelligent way the material is presented. The teachers bring such an inspiring presence to the group, and I’ve been surprised at how profoundly the program has affected my life already. I feel so fortunate to have Balanced Life Yoga in my life – between the teacher training, the Possibility 101 radio show, the Abundance Flows meditation cd – which I’ve listened to many times, I’m really benefiting from the studio and all its offerings. I thank you from my heart! – Norma Ackerley, Whitby.
The Inspiring Spirit Teacher Training was a life altering course. The instant bond created sharing the experience with like-minded people was incredible. Shasta is a wealth of knowledge and teaches in a way which enables you to transform your thoughts in a powerful, positive and gratifying manner. I woke up every morning excited. I valued being able to share my time in an extraordinary space filled with positive energies. Anyone who can discover the magic of yoga will vastly enrich their lives. Cheers to all the wonderful teachers and students at Balanced Life Yoga. – Stephanie M., Scarborough, ON
Thanks to the Inspiring Spirit Teacher Training you will learn how to live a BLISSFUL LIFE! I found new energy and a new appreciation for life, nature, the people that surround me, and time. Not only did I learn how to teach yoga postures but how to teach others to find their light. This program IS for everyone! Thank you to all of my teachers: Shasta and all of the instructors at Balanced Life and the amazing group of people I took this life changing journey with. Namaste! -Jenny Wilson, Brooklin, ON
The knowledge that I attained in the Inspiring Spirit Teacher Training course is something I will carry through the rest of my life. This is a great journey, and I was lost in who I was, and what I path I wanted to continue, but the guidance of this course had a deep unfolding for me personally. The clarity and inspiration the teachers offer in this course is phenomenal, and I have decided to continue my Yoga journey overseas. This peace and ease of knowing is a gift, so MANY. Thanks to Shasta, Krista, Angela and all the teachers at Balanced Life Yoga. I cannot express in words how this experience was so empowering, life changing, and you build friendships that will last a lifetime! – Mallory Smith, London, ON.
The Inspiring Spirit Teacher Training Program helped me to deepen my yoga practice both on and off the mat. Not only did I gain strength and steadiness in my poses, but the experience enriched my personal and spiritual growth and revealed new possibilities and pathways open to me in other aspects of my life. The summer program was both challenging and rewarding in many ways, and I would recommend it for anyone looking for more joy and renewed energy in their lives. – Sun-Mi J, Ajax
Since I finished Balanced Life’s 200 hour teacher training in June, I’ve been looking for the words to describe my experience. I’ve come to the realization that it is beyond words. So I’d like to just say thank you.
Thank you Shasta for sharing your wisdom and for holding such safe, loving space to open up, learn and grow. Thank you all the generations who have kept yoga teachings alive and thank you to those who are continuing to do so. Thank you all my fellow students for sharing the journey. Thank you Balanced Life instructors for the privilege of assisting and taking your classes. Thank you universe for guiding me to where I am today. Thank you yoga, for leading me home. – Janna Burford, Wellington
Inspiring Spirit Teacher Training at Balanced Life Yoga provided me with the tools to take my practice to the next level. Not only did it provide me with an education on Asanas or Postures, but it gave me real life tools to help shift my perspective and opened the doors to an abundance of wisdom and possibility. My teacher Shasta Townsend is a gift to this planet and a true Yogini in every sense” – Shayne Traviss, Founder of VividLife.me and Inspiring Spirit Yoga Teacher Trainee, Bowmanville, ON.
Thank you Shasta and Balanced Life Yoga for lighting my fire of passion again, the Inspiring Spirit Teacher Training course was amazing and you were were inspiring, knowledgeable and amusing throughout! – Beth S., Toronto, ON
The Inspiring Spirit Teacher Training at Balanced Life IS truly inspring! It is the best thing I have done for myself. The physical yoga is such a small part of what you learn. It is truly a journey of self discovery and and enlightened way of seeing the world; it is better than any self help book! Even if you never want to teach Yoga, it is a course you should take. Thank you to Shasta and the wonderful family at Balanced Life who make everyone feel welcomed! Namaste. – Lesa H. Uxbridge, ON.
I just want to express how much teacher training has meant to me. I have learned to say NO and put myself and my practice first. I am learning to love myself each time I come to my mat. I feel amazing after class and vowed to ensure that no matter how much I have going on, I will always make time for yoga. The studio feels like a second home to me now. I love that teacher training has allowed me to grow further emotionally, spiritually and physically. I love where I am right now and am so looking forward to whatever is ahead, as long as yoga is always a part of my daily life helping me to stay calm in whatever busy-ness surrounds me. Thanks for the wonderful experience and all your insights, instruction and guidance. Shanti! – Dawn G., Pickering
I have changed for the better because of the teaching I received at Balanced Life Yoga. I’m stronger. I have more confidence in myself and what I can do for myself and others. All thanks to the support and guidance I was given. This took my already spiritual mind and body into another level, it opened up blocks inside me that I released and never have to worry about again. My life is new, fresh and I’m so excited to start being a yoga teacher, and to help others with this journey of a life time change. – Charlene B., Stouffville, ON.
A life-changing experience…you will not only walk away with the fundamentals of yoga but you will also have a deeper understanding of who you are, unbelievable friendships and a huge sense of gratitude. I am ready to take the lessons I’ve learned and begin sharing them with others. – Vangie, S. Stouffville
I came to this course to help deepen my knowledge of Yoga and got a whole lot more and was given the tools to do so much. It has changed my life forever. Thank you Shasta you are an inspiation and an amazing teacher. Your love for what you do shines through you. Thank you to the amazing women I spent my weekends with. I met women who will be life long friends. This course should be taken by everyone. Thank You! - Angela. T. Port Perry
This course has been a life changing experience. Not only did I greatly deepen my yoga practice, but I found new meaning and purpose in my life. I liked my life before, but now I can truly say that I LOVE my life and myself. Words cannot express how truly grateful I am for this experience, for my new yoga ‘family’ and for Shasta, who is an inspiration. Thank you to everyone at Balanced Life Yoga, this experience truly has been life changing!” – Megan M, Uxbridge
I have been AWAKENED!!!! There has been a shift in me this week………thanks to BLY Teacher Training with Shasta. I am REALLY practicing Yoga in so many ways…..going to more challenging yoga classes, eating healthy foods (not overeating), thinking before speaking, being more positive…….This is just the beginning, I am looking forward to the next 4 Teacher Training weekends and all that this Life Long Journey brings!!!!NAMASTE -Diana Bacon
I cannot put into words the depth of my learning and the overall experience gained from participating in the Inspiring Spirit Yoga Teacher Training program. Shasta’s compassionate and dedicated teaching contributed to a profound level of holistic learning providing me with lessons I will carry forever in my heart and apply in all areas of my life. I am extremely grateful for this program at BLY and would recommend it to anyone who wishes to become an authentic, compassionate teacher, as well as for those seeking to take their own practise to a new level. - Katia G, Markham
The Teacher Training exceeded all my expectations. It has taught me that yoga is more than achieving perfection on the mat. It has given me a new perspective and insight on myself and life that has helped me to live better, treat others with more awareness and understanding and to love stronger. -Dennis R, Whitby
When I signed up for this course, I had expected it would be like a course in school. I didn’t expect the larger and more significant impact it had on me – a shift in the path my life was taking. This has been an enlightening and life changing experience which will have positive effects for a long time to come. -Harleen S, Whitby
I have come to learn more of myself in the last 6 months then I have in my entire life. My life has shifted and continues to evolve as I continue my journey. Shasta has created such a compassionate setting for learning and is an amazing teacher of yoga. I am truly blessed for this opportunity and will never forget it. -Angelica V, Whitby
I love this quote. “I do what I do not for great reward or results but to discover myself”. Balanced Life Yoga’s Teacher Training has opened so much for me – not only the practise of Yoga but so much more. This journey for me was really about finding my way, who I am, my purpose. Shasta, her team and my fellow Teacher Trainees have made this journey the best yet. Thank you Shasta! -Christy F, Stouffville
Coming out of this program I feel like a butterfly coming out of a cocoon. Whereas before my focus was very inward and down, I feel like I was given wings to fly and see a different world. This program is life changing and I recommend it to anyone who is willing to give a little time and a little effort for a lot in return. -Lucy G, Pickering
You practise yoga for how many years and you can get into all these fancy poses and you think you know yoga. This course enlightens you. It makes you aware that you only knew a pinch of what this thing called “yoga” is. This course is for anyone who is looking to gain a deeper understanding of yoga, whether you will teach it or not. It is an amazing world you will be opening to and your life will be better for it. -Andrea G, Markham
Thank you to Shasta and Krista for making this journey so worthwhile – your words have allowed me to see my life in a new light. Namaste! -Gail Z, Scarborough
I always knew, deep down that something was missing, and that something was the connection to me. This course helped me connect and find who I am, who I was, what I want from myself from the people around me, from my life. It has helped me eliminate that which does not serve me. It has helped me find the inner peace which I can share to others. And it has deepened my own practise and helped me to find meaning in my practise. I have strength, wisdom and a sense of calm I have though I had. It has truly been an amazing journey. -Natalie M, Uxbridge
My journey of Yoga began more than 10 years ago. Yoga gave me my health back. No doctor or therapy of any kind was able to offer me healing or relief of pain. I wanted to do the Balanced Life Yoga Teacher Training to be able to give the hope of health and healing and peace to others. Through the program over the last six months I have gained more than knowledge about how to safely teach postures, but also it was been a season of growth for me spiritually. The community created in our class was so supportive and loving and accepting that I gained confidence in my abilities and found my voice as well as a sense of purpose. Thank you to Shasta and all the wonderful instructors at Balanced Life Yoga you have been so inspiring and a blessing. -Christine G, Lindsay
When I signed up for Teacher Training I thought it would be like going to “school” but I found it to be a wonderful learning experience. It was truly learning from heart/head “in balance” as opposed to just learning from the head. The friendships, supportive group encouraged me, beyond my expectations. I really appreciated Shasta’s openness to accepting me as a student. Shasta is a wonderful teacher and thanks for taking me through this learning in the last six months. -Nalini D, Ajax
I knew when I signed up for Teacher Training that I would make friendships and relationships with other like-minded people. I had no idea that I would start a relationship with myself. I am excited to be invited to begin this journey that will never end! In our group we had people from all different areas and life experiences. Everyone had their own individual journey but we all came out closer, united and more enlightened because of it. Thank you Shasta, you truly are a Magical Teacher/Life Coach! –Brandy M, Uxbridge
Since taking this course the term “yoga off the mat” has brought better connections and awareness in my everyday life. -Ingrid S, Toronto
I have found this experience of Teacher Training very powerful. Balanced Life Yoga is well named as Yoga helps to balance one’s life so it is in rhythm with our environment around us. I think the greatest lesson in all of this has been not getting caught up in the end result – letting things unfold as they will. Seeing things from a new vantage point and realizing (it’s only taken 60 years!) that if we’re drawn toward something – go for it! If we do it our true nature will be revealed. Namaste! - Brenda A, Ajax
I know I would not have been capable of achieving the shifts in myself and my life without my month of life changing Inspiring Spirit Teacher Training program. I was able to successfully negotiate an exit package. I made a plan for myself, drawing on many of our philosophy discussions on how I would conduct myself through the meetings and visualized the end result – then let go of attachment. I even called the HR director later on friday night – she answered about 8:00 pm and I thanked her for her compassionate respectful approach in our discussions and she thanked me and said that I ‘made her week’ as her job is very difficult and so stressful, she wished me all the best and I told her maybe I would see her in a yoga class some day and sent her the link to Shasta! Thank you all at BLY! – Laurel G, Bowmanville.
No one could have told me what I now know after taking this teacher training. This experience has opened my mind, body and soul. I am more confident to take risks and more peaceful so I see the beauty in every moment. Shasta has created a studio where individuals blossom and realize their true Self. Krista is a passionate and joyful teacher. This experience will surely surpass your greatest expectations. – Jennifer, Whitby.
The 200 Hour Inspiring Spirit Course was one of the best decision I ever made. This course has opened me in ways I could not imagine and I have so much knowledge. The teachers, students nd environment all made this experience incredible. I higly recommend it. – Robin, London, ON.
The 200 Hour Inspiring Spirit Course is an incredible experience. I learned so much more than I imagined and it far exceeded my expectations. The environment was safe and relaxing. I really enjoyed sharing this journey with Shasta and the others in the course who feel like family now. Thank you so much to everyone at BLY for making this such an amazing experience. – Laurel R, Whitby
This course and the amazing teachers taught me the true meaning of Yoga and provided me with the skills and courage to not only change my asana practice but also my life. – Melanie J, Brooklin
Inspirational and expansive. -Anne, Whitby
I have learned so much more than expected. I have discovered my inner Self – the voice that I’ve been ignoring because I have been to scared to listen. This course is so much than just becoming a Yoga teacher. Thank you Shasta for a life changing experience. – Becky, Port Perry
I feel priviledged to have take this course. It has given me a deeper spiritual belief. I look forward to continuing with the 300 Hour course at Balanced Life Yoga. – Laurel G, Bowmanville
Making the decision to step into the journey of the Inspiring Spirit Teacher Training seemed difficult at the time. How could I possibly be four hours from home? How would I juggle work and school? In the end I just had to trust that Balanced Life Yoga was the right place at the right time. And it was! This has been one of the biggest lessons from this experience – Trust. Trust the teachings, trust myself and always be true to who I am. -Kelly, Windsor
Thank you so much for the Inspiring Spirit Teacher Training Program. These past six months have been the most transformative I have ever experience. – Cheryl, Oshawa
I have truly loved embracing yoga through this journey. Thank you so much for this amazing experience. – Helen, Ajax
I read in an article, “If yoga had a boot camp, teacher training would be it……. The best programs expect trainees to spend hours each day practicing, apprenticing with senior teachers, reading a myriad of books, learning poses inside and out—and that’s just the tip of the iceberg.” I feel compelled to agree with the last part of that phrase….’that’s just the tip of the iceberg’. Other than our physically rigorous training, it was your aura that commenced my immediate attention to your self-assuring strength that can be only drawn from what I later come to know as divinity. Wanting to thank you for opening my eyes to the possibility of connecting with my divinity, I take a moment to humbly pass on my energy to your presence Shasta. – Jules, Toronto
This course definitely changed my life! My yoga practice has deepened like never before. I have a greater understanding of what it means to Be Present, a greater sense of peace and an enlightened view of the power of the breath. My spirituality has unfolded, my self-confidence increased. I’ve met like-minded friends. A warm thank-you to Shasta and her devoted team. – Cheryl Bromfield-Wesley, Oshawa
I’m becoming a more compassionate and patient person. This journey truly made me a better person and the best part is; this is only the beginning. – Ada Ho, Whitby
Thank you Balanced Life Yoga for this remarkable journey. This was a life changing experience. The Inspiring Spirit Teacher Training course gave me the confidence to believe in myself and others and it gave me the tools to be a great teacher. – Melonie Goboitsios, Richmond Hill
I am so glad I had the faith to take this course. In six months I’ve learned to face my fears and lovingly detach from my “story”. Through my understanding of the union of asana, breath and meditation I am free to be the most authentic expression of my”self”. Thank you from my heart. With love – Catherine Pervan, Uxbridge
This course has been an amazing experience. I leave with a love in my heart, wisdom in my mind and strength in my body. Thank you Shasta and everyone at Balanced Life Yoga for making this journey unforgettable. – Reena Varjavandi, Ajax
I have learned that Yoga is not just practiced on the mat but is a way of life. I have learned to let go and just be present. Thank you to everyone at BLY. – Lisa Lamana, Pickering
I now see myself and others in a new light. I am taken by the thoughtfulness and consideration that is given freely without attachment here. – Allan Parker, Ajax
The Inspiring Spirit Teacher Training is a very in-depth study and journey into yoga. It provides you with all the tools you need to share yoga and gives you the confidence to go out and do it! – Donna Skipwith, Markham
The 200 Hour training course brought me a sense of community and freedom and the courage to share without fear of judgment. I leave with greater confidence in my ability to share my knowledge and make a difference in others’ lives. – Jenet Russell, Ajax
This course has been life changing. Shasta’s knowledge, experience and patience is a rare and wonderful gift. This entire experience has been truly inspiring and impacted my life forever both on and off the mat. Thank-you. – Jen G, Whitby
I love Yoga more than ever now that I have completed this training and can’t wait to teach. I have learned to listen to myself and to judge myself and others far less and be grateful for today. – Joanne Pameli, Ajax
I came to teacher training for many different reasons and the training EXCEEDED all of my expectations. I was living with constant pain and stress and now find myself physically better and mentally stronger. Even if you never intend to teach this program will improve every aspect of your life. – Tamara Saxon, Claremont
The Inspiring Spirit Teacher Training course has prepared me well to teach a variety of different yoga classes with a solid understanding of yoga theory, technique and hands on assisting. It has also shown me how to live a more peaceful and happy life. I feel very fortunate to have had the opportunity to participate in such a high quality program. – Cheryl Moore, Ajax
I have come out of my cocoon thanks to Teacher Training at BLY with Shasta. It has changed my life! My doubts and insecurities have been replaced with a sense of self. I have been blessed to be trained by Shasta, who’s guidance was clear yet full of warmth. She knew how to adjust her energy to each student’s needs. I felt contentment with every class and longed for more as I left. I now face my days and nights with transformed mind, body and spirit feeling nourished. – Jules Sung, Richmond Hill
The Inspiring Spirit Teacher Training course has changed my life – personally and professionally. I am more grounded, more tolerant of others and have healthier relationships. I am more at peace and balanced than ever before. As a result I’ve changed my work situation after 15 years so I could focus on what really matters most to me. This course has been life altering and I will be eternally grateful. – Andrea Walters, Ajax
The Inspiring Spirit Teacher Training course has changed my life! Not only am I pain-free in my body but my whole demeanor and attitude to life has changed. I am calmer, more confident, centred and relaxed. I sleep better and am learning to let go. I am very grateful to Balanced Life Yoga and Shasta in particular for providing a safe place for me to undergo change and for gently guiding and educating me and helping me find my self. I would encourage everyone to give this gift to themselves. Thank-you. – Jacqueline O’Brien, Cannington
The Inspiring Spirit Teacher Training Program has been one of the most positive experiences of my life. Thank you to Shasta and all the teachers at Balanced Life Yoga for sharing this life changing course with me. – Jessica Gregory, Stouffville
This was such an inspirational experience and the teacher were amazing! – Julie Peacock, Orono
I look forward to the future with this new version of me that is more present and aware thanks to this course! – Shari Dale, Oshawa
I took the teacher training program to deepen and strengthen my practice. BLY was of the few registered yoga schools that offered a program that fit my schedule. The course has provided a solid foundation with valuable information on Vinyasa yoga. Along with firm support and encouragement from Shasta I cultivated and developed lifelong relationships with fellow students. The teachers are highly skilled and professional as well as fun. Thanks to my new found knowledge and inner strength I am stronger and more confident. I would absolutely recommend the program to anyone. – Carla Giacci, Toronto
If you have been thinking about taking Yoga Teacher Training – that is your intuition speaking – so listen. Upon completion of this course I take away with me the knowledge that I am a better human being – and the yoga is the bonus!! Shasta is a powerful woman who can pull out of you what you never thought possible – and the space she provides is nothing short of magical. If you are worried that you are not ready – don’t worry – nobody ever is – all you need is courage and a little faith – stuff you already have. With confidence and great enthusiasm – I highly recommend this experience! – Julia Hazelton, Toronto
For the first time in my life I felt that I was exactly where I should be and everything is just falling into place. I have never been surrounded by such loving, supportive people as I was here during teacher training. This course has given me the tools to cope with anyone and anything that comes my way. I have finally found something that brings me great peace and contentment. – Chala Yorke, Ajax
I feel more grounded and connected to who I truly am. I feel strong, balanced and have an abundance of love. There are moments when I cant recognize who I was before this life changing experience. I have moved forward and this beautiful, soulful and artistic woman surfaced. Thank you Shasta for opening doors for me that I would probably never have the courage to open myself. – Elizabeth Major, Brooklin,
Thanks to this course I am more peaceful, more accepting of myself and others and more confident that the universe will provide. I feel stronger in my body and in my life, and I feel like I can make a difference to others. The connections and friendships made during the last 5 months are amazing gifts. I am so thankful. – Adrienne Kelly Durys, Ajax
I am so much more confident in my practice and myself both on and off the mat. I approach life from my heart and not my ego. I have made wonderful friends and have a certainty in yoga I have never had before which has allowed me to open my own studio and change my path in life to one that feels wonderful for me. – Sacha Clarke Squair,
I received more than I imagined from the past 5 months of teacher training. I’ve met great life long friends and shared life changing moments with them. My knowledge, inner strength and love has ripened to new heights on and off the mat. I would recommend this journey to anyone, even if you are not interested in becoming a yoga teacher. You will definately find growth, union and a purpose for your life. – Erin Keir, Ajax
This experience has been so positive. It is so worth it! I have had an amazing shift. If you are looking at bringing positive energy back into your life Balanced Life Yoga’s teacher training program will help you do just that. – Jeannie Wilson, Bowmanville
Thanks to this course I have a greater understanding of what I want out of life. I am better able to make decisions because I have a deeper connection within myself. The courage this course has given me to on my journey to myself has allowed me to live a better life. I started this course with the intention of improving my body and I
have improved my whole life! – Corrine Stevenson
Thank-you is the only word that feels appropriate. I have learned so much more than expected. Thank you for opening my world to a realm of true possibilities. – Tania Kingston, Stouffville
Through the Inspiring Spirit Teacher Training Program I have increased my confidence to teach yoga. I have been a fitness instructor for 22 years and I have found a new area that I love. The core and intention from which Shasta teaches is truly inspirational. – Lorraine Lloyd, Whitby
Taking this course has re-energized my life! – Amy Beth, Brooklin
These past five months of teacher training have become apart of my lifestyle of balance and inspiration that I look forward to continuing. The teachings are priceless. – Gerald Heydens, Brooklin
Even if I never formally teach yoga, this teacher training course has been of tremendous value – it has helped me to find a place of calm and acceptance which resonates in the world around me. – Angela Ryan, Courtice
Absolutely transformational. – Lorna Holborne
I feel more deeply connected to my body and spirit thanks to this course. Teacher training has opened my mind to learn more about myself and it has helped bring calmness and love into everything I do. It has brought depth to my practice and provided me with confident thoughtful ways to share it with others. – Lisa Krisman, Stouffville
I was uncertain whether I had the time or the commitment to embark on this journey however I am so glad that I did! Since taking the Inspiring Spirit teacher training I have found the time and motivation for yoga but also for other meaningful things in my life. My creativity has reawakened and my sense of self is much stronger. – Romain Perrera
This course has gone above and beyond my expectations. It has given me the knowledge to be a great yoga teacher and I now have the tools to manage whatever the future brings. – Shawna Hayes, Scarborough
I feel calm and centred thanks to all I have learned through the teacher training program at Balanced Life Yoga. It has changed my life and my outlook towards others. I feel positive and happy and love my life. – Irena Zurawska
It was an amazing journey. – Charlotte Brown, Sunderland
My expectations were blown away. – Christina Lewis, Stouffville
This course has nurtured my path and supported me as a human being and a spiritual being. – Annetta Postma, Goodwood
My faith has been restored. Thanks to the Inspiring Spirit Teacher Training program, I have learned to release resistance and negativity. This shift has put such a positive spin on everything. – Marilyn Nickerson, Bowmanville



