We offer a variety of free programs to help the bodies, hearts and minds of those that need it the most. Through partnerships with other community-based organizations and a dedicated team of volunteers, the Waterloo Wayside Centre is able to host and foster grass-roots programs that address real needs within the community.



Chair Yoga

🧘 Welcoming Everyone 55+
Join us for a free Chair Yoga for Healthy Aging program designed to help older adults maintain strength, flexibility, balance, and overall well-being in a safe and inclusive environment. This program also serves as a Fall Prevention Program, helping participants build strength, stability, and confidence in movement. Plus, it’s great for our minds too—offering relaxation, focus, and mental clarity.
Program Details
📍 ♿️ Location: Emmanuel United Church, Waterloo . We are a wheel chair accessible location.
🕘 Schedule:
• 9:45 AM – Participants Arrive
• 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM – Chair Yoga for Healthy Aging & Fall Prevention
• 11:00 AM – 11:30 AM – Social Time with Tea & Coffee
Parking: On-site parking available on a first-come, first-served basis. Please use the parking lot entrance. Note enter parking lot from Albert Street. Exit one way out to Dorset.
About Chair Yoga for Healthy Aging & Fall Prevention
Established in 2014, this program offers a gentle and accessible form of yoga practiced while seated or using a chair for support. Chair yoga is ideal for:
✔️ Older adults looking to stay active and independent
✔️ Individuals recovering from injuries
✔️ Those with arthritis, osteoporosis, or balance concerns
✔️ Anyone seeking a low-impact way to build strength, flexibility, and relaxation
By focusing on balance, coordination, and functional movement, this program actively supports fall prevention, helping participants improve confidence in their mobility and reduce the risk of falls.
Benefits of Chair Yoga & Fall Prevention
✅ Improves Flexibility & Strength – Helps maintain mobility and balance
✅ Reduces Stress & Pain – Breathing exercises and movement promote relaxation
✅ Enhances Circulation & Well-being – Supports both physical and mental health
✅ Reduces Isolation – Encourages social connection and a sense of community
✅ Prevents Falls – Builds strength, coordination, and confidence in movement
✅ Great for Our Minds Too! – Improves focus, relaxation, and mental clarity
What to Expect in a Class
Each session includes:
✔️ Gentle stretching to improve flexibility and mobility
✔️ Seated poses to build strength and stability
✔️ Standing poses using a chair for support to enhance balance and prevent falls
✔️ Breathwork and relaxation techniques to promote mindfulness and mental well-being
Our approach ensures that yoga is accessible to all, fostering strength, stability, mindfulness, and meaningful social connections.
Meet Your Instructor
Our instructor is highly trained in:
• Yoga for Healthy Aging
• Back Care Basics
• Trauma-Informed Yoga
• Concussion Recovery
• Eating Disorder-Informed Yoga
• BoneFit Training (Osteoporosis Canada)
• VON SMART Gentle Exercise Program (a recognized Fall Prevention Program)
With thousands of hours of therapeutic yoga training, our instructor ensures a safe and beneficial experience for all participants.
Registration Information
To register, please call or email Emmanuel United Church. (Add phone number & email here… or link to this info)
✅ A waiver and health form must be completed before participating.
✅ A one-on-one consultation with our therapeutic yoga instructor is required to discuss your goals and any modifications needed for your safety.
Cost & Donations
This program is free of charge. However, donations are greatly appreciated to help sustain the program, which has been running since 2014.
💙 Donations of $20 or more will receive a tax receipt.
Community Partnership
We are proud partners with Wilfrid Laurier University’s Community Service Learning program, welcoming student volunteers who help support our sessions.
Join our welcoming yoga family and experience the benefits of movement, mindfulness, and meaningful social connections—all while supporting fall prevention, independent living, and mental well-being.
To Register: Contact Emmanuel United Church via phone at 519-886-1471 or by email at office@emmanueluc.ca.