Sponsored Sponsored content Neighbourhood Stops and Shops: Mother and daughter-in-law duo bringing Oxygen Yoga & Fitness to the Beach
Oxygen Yoga & Fitness is set to open its doors on Queen Street East this fall, bringing a fresh and innovative fitness experience to the Beach.
This new venture is led by Linda Phillips and her soon-to-be daughter-in-law, Shayna Rooney.
Both have been long-time devotees of Oxygen Yoga & Fitness (OYF), a brand they admire for its unique approach to fitness and holistic wellness. For years, Phillips and Rooney have been regulars at various OYF locations, drawn to the distinctive benefits of the infrared technology used in their classes.
The idea to open their own OYF location came about unexpectedly. After finishing a class one day, Phillips saw an email from OYF’s head office inviting members to consider franchising.
As they left the studio, Phillips turned to Rooney and asked, “Do you want to do it?” Rooney’s immediate response was, “Yes, I do.”
That simple exchange marked the beginning of their journey toward opening the next studio in the Beach, the most eastern OYF location in Toronto.
For Phillips, this decision was particularly meaningful. Approaching her 50th birthday, she found herself reflecting on her life and considering how she wanted to spend the next chapter. With a background in the corporate world and a family history filled with entrepreneurs, Phillips saw this opportunity as a chance to combine her business acumen with her passion for wellness.
Partnering with Rooney, who has a deep love for the Beach community, made the decision even more exciting.
Rooney’s connection to the east end began years ago when she first lived in the area. Later, she became a driver for Purolator, where she was thrilled to work in her favourite neighborhood again.
“I was always excited to drive through,” said Rooney. “It was one of my favourite routes, so when we (my fiancé and I) had the chance to move back, I was so excited to become a local again.”
She emphasized that partnering with Phillips to open the OYF studio in the Beach feels like a natural extension of that connection.
Since deciding to open their own franchise, Phillips and Rooney have been working closely with the team at OYF.
“It’s been a big undertaking, but the support from OYF has been incredible,” said Rooney. “It doesn’t feel like what people associate with franchises; it’s more like becoming part of a family.”
OYF, a woman-owned and operated company, was founded in British Columbia, Canada by Jen Hamilton in her garage. It has since grown into a global brand, but it remains committed to its roots and to supporting its franchisees in a personal and hands-on way.
Both Phillips and Rooney were initially drawn to OYF because of its unique approach to fitness, which incorporates infrared technology to enhance workouts and promote overall wellness. Unlike traditional hot yoga studios that use steam to heat the room, OYF uses infrared heat, which penetrates the body and provides a deep, detoxifying sweat at the cellular level. This method not only improves physical performance but also offers a range of therapeutic benefits, such as reduced inflammation, improved circulation, and faster recovery times.
Beyond the physical benefits, Phillips and Rooney were also inspired by the organization’s mantra, “I love my life.”
This phrase resonated so deeply with Phillips that she had it tattooed on her wrist—a sentiment Rooney plans to honour with a matching tattoo in the near future.
For both women, OYF represents a commitment to mental and physical health, celebrating and loving oneself beyond just physical appearance.
As the opening day approaches, Phillips and Rooney have been overwhelmed by the positive response from the community.
“We don’t just want to be some random franchise,” explained Phillips. “It’s really important to us that we become part of the community.”
To that end, they have sourced products for the studio from local businesses, such as Living Lighting, and have been actively engaging with The Beach BIA to find ways to contribute to local events and be a positive resource for residents.
The new OYF studio will offer a variety of classes designed to cater to all fitness levels. Instructors are currently undergoing rigorous training to ensure they can guide members through the unique workout environment that OYF provides.
In anticipation of their grand opening, Phillips and Rooney are offering free classes and pre-opening discounts on memberships. Prospective members can sign up and learn more about the benefits and mission of OYF on the studio’s website at https://oxygenyogaandfitness.com/the-beaches/
Phillips and Rooney are excited to welcome new members and share their passion for wellness and the benefits they’ve experienced first-hand at Oxygen Yoga & Fitness.
Follow Oxygen Yoga & Fitness Beaches on Instagram for updates on their opening and special promotions. The studio is set to open at 1783 Queen St. E at the end of September.
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