LSD°R Studios Blends Modern Pilates with Guided Breathwork in a New Toronto Wellness Concept
The studio blends modern Pilates with guided breathwork for physical and mental wellness
Toronto’s wellness scene is gaining LSD°R Studios at 543 Richmond Street West. The studio introduces a new approach to boutique fitness, blending modern Pilates with guided breathwork. Co-founded by Tessa Bernier and Jacqueline DiRenzo, LSD°R (short for Low, Slow, Deep Re°form) is built on a vision to move beyond traditional Pilates and create a more holistic fitness experience.
“At LSD°R, our approach is inspired by a mission to create a fitness experience that transcends mere physical movement. With years of experience in boutique fitness and extensive training in yoga, Pilates and breathwork, we have recognized the power of combining these practices to help our guests build strength and improve their overall well-being,” said Bernier and DiRenzo. “We are the first to pioneer the dedicated Breathwork Blocks—‘Re°form Up’ and ‘Re°form Down’—that bookend each session, helping the nervous system adjust and regulate. This combination enables us to provide a physical challenge while delivering an up-regulating and down-regulating experience that enhances overall wellness.”
The studio incorporates intentional breathwork into every session and is designed to stimulate the senses to support this mind-body connection.
“Breathwork, when paired with a multisensory environment, improves the overall fitness experience. At LSD°R, we’ve designed the space to engage sight, sound and scent, creating an atmosphere that helps our guests focus and relax. Combining intentional breathing with movement helps regulate the nervous system, reduce stress and promote a stronger mind-body connection,” said Bernier and DiRenzo. “The sensory elements—like the carefully chosen lighting, music and scents—create a unique environment that helps our guests feel more present. This experience allows our guests to fully engage in their workout and leave feeling refreshed.”
Whether guests are first-timers or seasoned Pilates practitioners, the team at LSD°R has a goal to make the experience inclusive and adaptable.
“Our custom Re°formers are designed to challenge guests at every level,” said Bernier and DiRenzo. “The flexibility of the Re°former allows us to adjust the workout to fit individual needs—whether scaling back or pushing further. This ensures that everyone gets an effective and fulfilling workout, from first-timers to seasoned Pilates enthusiasts.”
The founders hope to offer something new to the local fitness community.
“We hope LSD°R Studios brings a fresh, bespoke approach to fitness in Toronto, offering a space where movement and breathwork work together to help guests achieve their fitness goals,” said Bernier and DiRenzo. “We aim to create a community where guests can challenge themselves physically, relax, regulate through breathwork and leave feeling stronger and more balanced. We’re excited about the future and how our studio will integrate into Toronto’s fitness scene.”
Launching a concept that merges multiple wellness modalities has required careful planning and refinement. The founders noted that it took planning to find the right balance between breathwork and Pilates.
“It has taken time to fine-tune the experience, ensuring that each part of the session, from the breathwork to the workout and the environment, works together seamlessly,” said Bernier and DiRenzo. “Looking ahead, we see boutique fitness becoming more personalized. People are seeking experiences that cater to their specific needs and provide real value. Our goal is to continue offering thoughtful, effective fitness experiences that assist our guests in living their healthiest lives.”