Breathtaking Gardens presented by Soul Expansion
A Sanctuary in the City
There is something inherently transformative about Casa Loma. While most visitors flock to the castle for its Gothic Revival architecture and cinematic history, the true magic often lies in the sprawling, manicured gardens that overlook the city. This summer, Soul Expansion is reclaiming that space with *Breathtaking Gardens*, a weekly Sunday morning ritual that feels less like a fitness class and more like a necessary exhale for the soul. In a city that rarely stops moving, this series offers a deliberate, guided pause, inviting you to anchor yourself in the present before the chaos of the week begins.
The Sound of Stillness
At the heart of this experience is the partnership between facilitator Freddy Gervasi and The Band of Souls. Gervasi has carved out a distinct niche in Toronto’s wellness scene, moving away from traditional, silent meditation toward something more visceral and auditory. The Band of Souls doesn't just provide background noise; they create a layered soundscape of intentional frequencies and instrumentation designed to bypass the analytical mind and tap directly into the nervous system.
When you combine this live, immersive audio with structured breathwork, the result is profound. The session is designed to move you through a sequence of toning, grounding, and deep, rhythmic breathing. It is an intense, yet accessible, journey that helps clear the mental clutter, making it an ideal practice for both seasoned meditators and those who find it impossible to sit still in a standard studio.
More Than Just Breath
What makes *Breathtaking Gardens* stand out is its commitment to community. Each session kicks off with a collaborative class led by some of Toronto’s most respected wellness leaders. Whether it’s a high-energy Pilates flow or a deep, restorative stretch, these opening sessions are curated to wake up the body before the meditative work begins. It’s a brilliant way to sample different modalities while supporting local instructors who are shaping the city's health and wellness landscape.
The Casa Loma Advantage
Let’s be honest: the venue is the star. Being on the grounds of Sir Henry Pellatt’s former estate at 9:00 AM, before the tour buses arrive and the castle gates open to the public, is a privilege. The gardens offer a unique microclimate of calm, shielded by the castle’s stone walls and lush greenery. It feels like a secret garden in the middle of the Davenport neighbourhood. After the session concludes at 11:00 AM, you are perfectly positioned to explore the surrounding area. You’re just a short walk from the charming shops and cafes of Wychwood or a quick transit ride down to the Annex, where you can grab a post-breathwork brunch at one of the many spots along Bloor Street West.
Good to Know
- **Arrive Early:** The doors open at 8:45 AM, and the session begins promptly at 9:00 AM. Because the experience relies on a collective flow, there is no late entry—don't be the person trying to sneak in once the meditation has started.
- **Pack Your Gear:** Yoga mats are not provided. Bring your own, and perhaps a light blanket or a towel, as the grass can be cool in the early morning.
- **Entry Logistics:** Skip the main tourist entrance. You need to head to the East Gate, located in the East Parking Lot.
- **The Fine Print:** Your ticket grants you access to the gardens for the event, but it does not include admission to the interior of Casa Loma. If you want to explore the castle’s secret passages and towers afterward, you will need to purchase a separate general admission ticket.
- **Tickets:** Because of the high demand and the intimate nature of the event, tickets are subject to a delivery delay (usually 48 hours before the event) to prevent fraud. Keep an eye on your inbox as your date approaches.
