Sonja den Elzen is a R.Ac license acupuncturist, a zen shiatsu practitioner and RYT500 yoga instructor. Offerings include classes in Yin yoga and Ashtanga-based vinyasa flow yoga, private classes, Traditional Chinese Medicine healing arts of acupuncture, cupping, moxa, tcm dietary guidance and zen shiatsu treatments.

Sonja completed her 2200hr Traditional Chinese Medicine Acupuncture diploma at Eight Branches in 2018. And received her full license from the CTCMPAO in April 2019. She loves the holistic approach to healing and wellbeing that TCM provides.

With Zen Shiatsu she uses extremely gentle touch to apply pressure along meridian pathways while focusing on the body’s response to the treatment. Resulting in a very, deep state of relaxation that enables the body’s own healing powers to circulate. Sonja completed her zen shiatsu training in 2010 under the instruction of Adarsa Chakra and Era Birfer.

She believes yoga is a physical, mental and spiritual practice used to bring one to an elevated awareness or consciousness. Focus on breath, presence in the moment, as well as alignment are important components of each session. She brings a compassionate and gentle presence to each class and enjoys sharing the beauty and wisdom of yoga with others.

Sonja completed the 500hr Teacher training with Downward Dog Yoga Studios in Toronto with Advanced Training and Art of Mysore and Art of Vinyasa,  Ashtanga based programs under Ron Reid. Sonja studied Yin Yoga with Tracey Soghrati with her 50 hr yin yoga teacher training and Sarah Powers. She also has studied prenatal yoga with Nicky Poole, pranayama with Suddhir Tiwari, mindful alignment with Annie Carpenter and meditation.

Sonja has found that a continual exploration of her personal practices of yoga and meditation provide centering skills that enhances daily life beyond the mat and is dedicated to facilitating opportunities and nurturing environments for people looking to find their path to peace, well-being, vitality and mobility.

For Sonja a big component of physical, mental and spiritual health is cultivating relationship with the natural world.  You will find her often in the forest, by a river, observing nature, foraging or appreciating the vibrant life of plants and the elements.

Sonja is a fashion designer of 20 plus years and her current collection can be found at www.zennomad.ca.  The clothing is environmentally friendly, made in Canada and there is a section of the collection that is all dyed with plants she has foraged in the forest.