Gwenivere Eve Lovewell
Teacher, Director and Founder of Shiva Shakti Yoga and Pilates
Certified - Yoga Teacher
Certified - Pilates Mat & Reformer Teacher
Certified - Personal Trainer
Teaching these topics for over 18-years, this studio was established in 2011
Anatomy and Biomechanics with the very Soulful Elements of Story Telling, Therapeutic Connection, and a Community Base Practice
Gwen has been teaching movement for almost 20-years and has dual certification in both yoga CYT and pilates CPT and has fully completed her CPT certification in personal training. Her practice includes those with pre-existing spine conditions or with joint replacements, as well as, those who are intense level cross training high level athletes. She will get to know your personal needs from seeing you in sessions and build classes that fit the plan of achievement of your goals. Whether ultimately for better form, greater harmony while in motion, less pain, or just improved overall fitness, sense of wellness, and health.
Gwenivere Lovewell's teaching practice comes from a Therapeutic and Holistic approach to yoga, fitness, and pilates. She teaches weekly classes on Yoga, Fitness, and Pilates for the Real Body. She is ever able to adapt the presented class material so to truly help with her clients array of specific needs and requests.
She is an Innovative Teacher, Intuitive Person, and Powerful Healer, working with Gwen will open new doors to Higher Level Energy and basically Wake You Up within your own practice .
Contact yogigwen@gmail.com for any additional information.
Teacher, Director and Founder of Shiva Shakti Yoga and Pilates
Certified - Yoga Teacher
Certified - Pilates Mat & Reformer Teacher
Certified - Personal Trainer
Teaching these topics for over 18-years, this studio was established in 2011
Anatomy and Biomechanics with the very Soulful Elements of Story Telling, Therapeutic Connection, and a Community Base Practice
Gwen has been teaching movement for almost 20-years and has dual certification in both yoga CYT and pilates CPT and has fully completed her CPT certification in personal training. Her practice includes those with pre-existing spine conditions or with joint replacements, as well as, those who are intense level cross training high level athletes. She will get to know your personal needs from seeing you in sessions and build classes that fit the plan of achievement of your goals. Whether ultimately for better form, greater harmony while in motion, less pain, or just improved overall fitness, sense of wellness, and health.
Gwenivere Lovewell's teaching practice comes from a Therapeutic and Holistic approach to yoga, fitness, and pilates. She teaches weekly classes on Yoga, Fitness, and Pilates for the Real Body. She is ever able to adapt the presented class material so to truly help with her clients array of specific needs and requests.
She is an Innovative Teacher, Intuitive Person, and Powerful Healer, working with Gwen will open new doors to Higher Level Energy and basically Wake You Up within your own practice .
Contact yogigwen@gmail.com for any additional information.
Testimonials for Gwen's Teaching...
Your crew were all strong and had beautiful practices- they have a great teacher in you!
-SaraRose
You've created an amazing space that is supportive, inclusively spiritual, and welcoming! I've been able to achieve poses and enlightenment in your studio that I've been unable to anywhere else. -Coco
Thanks for your excellent teaching and yoga classes - over the years, I have tried many classes in terms of exercise and more recently yoga classes and yours are the first I have stick with. Of course, people seek yoga for different reasons -- and for me it provides an hour of peacefulness in an otherwise hectic schedule and a way to get stronger. Right now, I think of myself as a bit beyond beginner, but not really ready for everything in the Level1/Level 2 classes -- although this seems to work fine since you are excellent at making space for everyone in your classes. -Deborah
I meant to say when I first saw you today is Thank You for all you do for me and express how much I am going to miss taking your classes when I leave. Yoga and Shiva Shakti have been on my mind. I will not be moving for another month or so, but of all the things I have come to love about this town, I think I'll miss Shiva Shakti the most. I have never had an instructor like you before. I have learned so much in the short time I have been there and I know I could learn so much more if I could stay. -Jeane
It's been 2 years for me since Gwen introduced me to yoga and I can't be grateful enough for that. Every time practice makes me a happier person. Gwen - the owner of the studio - is a wonderful yoga teacher and an awesome person who puts her heart into what she does. Not only she teaches beautiful postures and proper breathing, she also inspires people for greatness and lights up their eyes. Every single class is filled with positive energy, enthusiasm and happiness. That's why I love Shiva Shakti!! –Irena
My first experience with Yoga, Gwen is Thoughtful and receptive to the needs of the class. –John
I’ve never smiled so much in a yoga class. -Blossom
I have never practiced yoga before and didn't know exactly what to expect. I had a sense that it would be relaxing and challenging, but i never expected that both could come in a complete and whole package. In the beginners class, our instructor took us through wide range of stretches which included one stretch where we worked with a partner. In several of these positions, I felt my body and muscles move in ways I never have before. We were instructed to "bring our body to a new area or dimension" with each class. Basically - to teach and enable our bodies to move safely in a way they have never moved before. I was so impressed with how easily our instructor was able to explain what we should do and how to enable us to go further. Sure, there were a few times where I was lost but I had imagined that this is what my entire first class would be like. It was such a pleasant surprise to find what I was capable of doing and what I never knew I could! The atmosphere is slow paced and relaxing, at some points of the stretches I could have fallen asleep while at other points my whole body would shake to maintain the pose! I can honestly say that my body had a great workout. This workout was nothing like the cardio that I am used to, but my muscles feel like it could have been! –Monica
My husband has noticed a radiance about me since starting practice. -Maureen
Shiva Shakti Yoga taught me a lot about releasing tension in the hips, breathing into poses, the connection of muscle groups with each other and how that relates to my alignment, working with injuries, the MELT method, using props such as bands, chairs, and giant exercise balls, using the Barre and Pilates. Gwen is a truly versatile, highly experienced, and compassionate Yoga instructor. She does private instruction and reiki healing sessions, too, which their loving Yoga Therapy dog participates in - a truly fun aspect of the studio. She's a short haired, clean, and sweet dog who doesn't bite but snuggles. Gwen combines aspects of Hatha, Anusara, and Iyengar yoga. All levels welcome.
Wonderful yoga studio! Gwen is an awesome teacher, very unique and continuously researches/incorporates new and interesting things into the yoga at Shiva Shakti, but she balances it so beautifully with traditional yoga as well. She really just gets it, and she wants to share it with all of her students. It’s always a special experience here, every day! Been with Shiva Shakti for 2+ years and have seen less injury, a healthier mind, and a healthier physical body all around. Highly recommend!
Great yoga studio! Gwen keeps the classes fun and challenging to deepen your practice. Very open community. Love this place.
Shiva Shakti Yoga Center / Gwen is the best! She is a kindhearted yoga teacher and person who has so much patience and really cares about the people who walk in her doors at Shiva Shakti Yoga Center. Her warm smile and gentle manner make all feel at home and welcome in her classes. I have taken many classes with Gwen over the last few years - through times of great health, times of much physical pain and even through a pregnancy - and she always tailors her classes to the people who practice that day. I have never had another yoga teacher like her and I will never find one like her. I say when you find a great teacher stick with her wherever she goes. Gwen is that teacher and Shiva Shakti Yoga Center is that place. Thank you Gwen for all you do. <3 <3 <3
It's really good. And they teach with lot of personal attention. We are doing it since couple of years and we can really feel how it helps for our health and keeping us active. We learn from panna ma'am and we are very happy.
This is really a wonderful place to unleash your capabilities and helps you connect with the divine. Me and my wife had a very great time here with Gwen , this is really a great place to develop both core strength and flexibility. Gwen is really experienced and design classes based on students requirement .
Love love love Shiva Shakti. I attended my first ever yoga class at this studio about 2 months ago. I expected to be intimidated and self-conscious at my first class, but this was not at all the case. Shiva Shakti is a very warm and welcoming environment. Being so new to yoga, I am surprised at how comfortable I am getting with certain poses, and I attribute that to Gwens teaching style. Even if there are a lot of students in a class, she manages to pay attention to everyone and really guide each person through the session. Much love to this place. –Kristin
This is a very large and beautiful space. I took my first class yesterday with Gwen and she is such a warm hearted, wonderful teacher. I say teacher instead of "instructor" because she did way more than instruct us through a class. She listened to our needs, and built the class around us as individuals adn created a class that was wonderful. She "taught" us more about how bodies, and how to open and release tension in the areas we are all so tight in. I can't wait to go back! –Christopher
I found this place after trying several yoga studios in the area. I was happily surprised to find such a wonderful place! Gwen is the owner and instructor for some of the classes. She is what makes this place so special. When she teaches she really tries to get to know everyone in the class (if she doesnt know you already:) and tailor the class to the students needs. So you know that no matter what time slot or class you show up to you will be getting what you need! Gwen also likes to have a theme to class which I love. It creates an atmosphere that is comfortable. I am not what I would consider a yogi so sometimes instructors can be intimidating but gwen makes class seem like a conversation with an old friend :) I will continue to go to this studio even after my deal runs out. The space is also beautiful and very inviting! –Melissa
Relaxing, conducive setting. Generally plenty of room (though some classes can get a bit crowded). All around excellent yoga venue. –Ora
This is a fantastic yoga studio. Gwen is a wonderful person and a wonderful instructor. The yoga classes are challenging, rewarding, satisfying, fun - both physically and mentally. The space is great too. I highly recommend for all levels. –Kate
This was my first group yoga experience and I felt very comfortable. The instructors have changed up the workout every day I've been there, which has kept it interesting. The studio is very nice and has all of the extra equipment that you need. Gwen has inspired me to try things I felt weren't possible before. She does modify her classes to the attendees and tries to accommodate all ranges of skill sets. I highly recommend Shiva Shakti. -Matthew
I've taken many yoga classes but never remember receiving such wonderful attention and positive encouragement as I did at Shiva Shakti. Gwen's gentle, caring approach helped me feel comfortable as well as challenged (in a good way!). For example, prior to class, Gwen had asked the students if there were any areas that they'd like to focus on and made sure we addressed them in class. Gwen's adjustments were very effective and her guidance was clear and personalized. Gwen provided a nice variety of postures, inspired by different yoga styles, primarily Anusara. The studio was welcoming, spacious, clean and well kept. Visiting from out of town, I found the location of the studio to be very convenient. Parking was plentiful and easy ; after 6pm, the parking is free. I felt so refreshed after I left. I will drop in everytime I come to the Waltham area! I recommend Shiva Shakti to locals and out of town visitors, as well. –Jane
Awesome yoga studio. I take classes with Gwen, she is so attentive. She encourages you, is very mindful of your poses and assists you with alignment. So far in 2 classes I have been able to pop into a wheel and handstand, both of which I was leery to do in my other classes. I have been practicing regularly for 3 months. There is plenty of parking and the location is nice and quiet. She just opened so classes aren't crowded which is a huge perk in my book. I get really anxious when classes are mat-on-top-of-mat and the person next to me's back sweat is gliding onto my mat.... Megan
Shiva Shakti Yoga Center is a sun-filled healing center with gleaming hardwood floors, a beautiful gathering space with over-stuffed comfy couches and chairs, and welcoming teachers. A focus on alignment and heart-centered joy makes each class splendiferous! –Diana
I love the teacher and the space. Gwen is a most wonderful teacher. I am a beginner to yoga, she always makes me very comfortable to practice to the level that I can handle and push me further more without give me pressures. I would say every class that I've been to is more than just doing yoga. I feel so relaxed and refreshed after every single class. –Jean
A great teacher in a beautiful studio with easy parking in the side street lots. Gwen both challenged me and made me feel at ease. A wonderful experience!! -Deborah
Trace, something happened -- I took a class at Shiva Shakti on Moody Street yesterday during my lunch break, and I don't ever want to take another class in the style we learned to teach in, ever again. Oh my lord -- Tracy, you have to try Gwen's class. My body has been opened in ways I didn't know were possible. I can't even describe to you... It started with a tennis ball... She had us roll on it in the crease of our hip, and she said this sometimes releases your psoas, in an instant. As soon as she mentioned the psoas, I knew I was in for a treat! It's not as much of a flow as what we do, but it's incredibly focused on anatomy -- it's as though she were a doctor in a past career! -- and you get into your muscles and joints deeply. Just for example, she taught us to do strenuous exhales "into our low belly and pelvis." I'm sure I've heard HYP teachers say this before, but Gwen actually demonstrated for us, explaining that these are extremely deep areas of the body and that the only way she's been able to access these muscles effectively is to exhale so deeply, she almost makes animal sounds. We focused on hips and backbends. Tracy, backbends are, like, my thing, you know? And yet no teacher has ever gotten me into position like Gwen did. –Barbara
Love this and love all you are doing!!! Can't wait for the day I get to your gorgeous shining center! -Anjali
Gwen is a powerful and intuitive healer and knowledgeable and fluid yoga instructor. I have practiced with her for several months now and have experienced a shift in my practice and my body. Her facilitated stretch sessions are amazing! If you are working through any injury or "stuckness" in any aspect of your yoga or your life, she will help you to create opening and movement. In short, working with Gwen will make you feel GOOD!!
Beautiful practice, Thank You Gwen (and Luna) Namaste
The most unique and authentic yoga class experience i've been a part of.
So glad I have found such a great studio to get back into yoga... Loving it!
"I feel like a ballerina" age 68 woman post just 1-hour class together!
"Thank for all you do to attend to the needs of all of the people in your classes. You are a fabulous yoga instructor!
'You are great for my soul too with doing yoga I have made things happen in my life that I did not think were ever possible you run such an amazing space and I always have loved the energy even when I am exhausted I just have to be there. Otherwise I feel like I am missing something.'
I’m so glad I found this studio! Gwen is a knowledgeable, intuitive, and fun yoga and pilates teacher, and she really cares about her students.
We were staying in Boston for a few weeks for work and found Gweniveres yoga studio and Im really glad we did. We loved the variety of her classes and how she adapted them to the students needs on the day. Its very easy to find traditional yoga classes that go through standard flows but its rare to find a teacher that listens to the needs of her students and then develops a class to suit. She used a range of equipment and props and takes pleasure in teaching what she knows and seeing her students progress. We absolutely loved the variety and have been to lots of different classes as we travel a lot and this was one of our favourites.
Gwen is amazing - she's a wealth of knowledge of countless methods to reduce pain and stiffness and make her students feel amazing. What's better is she wants you to be able to do this on your own in a way that's more manageable fiscally and sustainable. She's always learning and sharing and works really hard to foster a positive community around her studio. So glad I found her studio! On a personal note I'm a marathon runner and I truly believe my success is/was only possible thanks to help from Gwen. I come running to her with every pain/discomfort I experience throughout training and she is ALWAYS able to help. She'll help in class, after class, in a 1:1 session and she provides instructions/tips for at home to prevent recurrences. Before I came to her I had ever present hip/IT band pain from running among other stiffness and soreness and thanks to her its all gone! I ran a marathon last spring where it was really cold and pouring rain the entire duration. I was SO INCREDIBLY STIFF after. I came home, spent a couple hours on the soft roller and using balls and other things Gwen had taught me and by end of session I was nothing more than fatigued. Woke up the next day feeling amazing. IT WORKS. Thanks Gwen!
Gwen is a powerful and intuitive healer and knowledgeable and fluid yoga instructor. I have practiced with her for several months now and have experienced a shift in my practice and my body. Her facilitated stretch sessions are amazing! If you are working through any injury or "stuckness" in any aspect of your yoga or your life, she will help you to create opening and movement. In short, working with Gwen will make you feel GOOD!!
No two classes ever look the same, because of Gwen's awareness of the practitioners in each particular class.
The teaching of yoga and pilates goes beyond the poses extending to the mind and body awareness.
What a great find! I went to the restorative/Yin yoga classes that were fantastic. Gwen has a unique way of presenting some wonderful stretches and creates a warm atmosphere for everyone. It was great to attend a truly diverse yoga class without judgements. Sadly I'm just visiting, but would try the pilates and other classes if I could!
Gwen has been an amazing teacher for me over the last year. She has been welcoming and has cared about each person's specific issues they are trying to address in their yoga class. She is able to see where you are at and design classes to meet your needs. She has been incredibly helpful in understanding alternative ways of addressing pain and caring for pain by opening up different areas of the body. I have valued her classes so much in allowing me to be in my body so much more than I would have been able to otherwise. She provides a positive space to be challenged and supported making you want to keep coming back.
Luna the dog is super friendly and a great presence in class - she has a way of keeping things light during yoga class.
My chiropractor is telling me whatever you are doing with my shoulders in yoga class is working.
Thank you so much for clearing my lower back pain and sciatica!!!!
No two classes ever look the same, because of Gwen's awareness of the practitioners in each particular class.
You have helped a lot in a short order!
Since seeing for private yoga classes you my neck and shoulders are feeling so much better, I'm having less pain.
The teaching whether pilates or yoga goes beyond the poses extending to the mind and body awareness.
Gwen is a powerful and intuitive healer and knowledgeable and fluid yoga instructor. I have experienced a shift in my practice and my body. In short, working with Gwen will make you feel GOOD!!
You have created a wonderful shelter for yoga classes, filled with kindness!
45 minutes flew by -- studio felt like I was in an inviting friends house for pilates class. Will definitely be back!
I loved this pilates class and the Instructor! I can't wait to return!
Good work out with great Cueing.
You get me breathing!
Since coming here the past few months for yoga classes I’ve come out of panic attacks. And if I see one coming on, I find from these classes that I can consciously breathe my way it out of it. I'm going to stay with my practice because of you, this has made such a big difference!
Thank you so much for this place, it so special for me to be here with everyone in these yoga classes, it is such a great addition to my life!
It was great. All your yoga and pilates classes really are. I am never bored and I learn something new in each class. I appreciate the emphasis of joint protection while strengthening muscles.
I just came back from my doctor, and my autoimmune antibodies have gone down by 75% in the past nine months from my last testing, and I attribute it to coming here and the practices that you have been teaching me in private yoga classes!
When I came in things were so hard at the time that I was almost on the verge of tears, after seeing you for yoga class for just that hour, I felt peaceful and much more in synch with my body.
After years of trying to get pregnant and going through eight miscarriages, I am very happy to tell you those visits to you for private yoga classes brought us a beautiful baby boy.
It's been about a year and my back is feeling so much better from your yoga classes, thank you Gwen!
You always seem to know exactly what I need even before I do in yoga class, thank you!!!
I absolutely love this time on the Pilates Reformer with you, what you are doing with them is really special, I love these pilates classes -thank you so much!
I am always feeling so much better after I make it to your yoga classes!
Shiva Shakti has changed my life, Gwen is extremely caring and diligent. She is an excellent pilates and yoga instructor who makes things interesting, challenging and fun.
Gwen is an amazing pilate and yoga instructor she takes the time to get to know her students and tailors classes to meet the needs of those who arrive. -I am beyond thankful I found Shiva Shakti. I look forward to every class and see and feel the difference in my physical, mental and emotional wellbeing.
Your crew were all strong and had beautiful practices- they have a great teacher in you!
-SaraRose
You've created an amazing space that is supportive, inclusively spiritual, and welcoming! I've been able to achieve poses and enlightenment in your studio that I've been unable to anywhere else. -Coco
Thanks for your excellent teaching and yoga classes - over the years, I have tried many classes in terms of exercise and more recently yoga classes and yours are the first I have stick with. Of course, people seek yoga for different reasons -- and for me it provides an hour of peacefulness in an otherwise hectic schedule and a way to get stronger. Right now, I think of myself as a bit beyond beginner, but not really ready for everything in the Level1/Level 2 classes -- although this seems to work fine since you are excellent at making space for everyone in your classes. -Deborah
I meant to say when I first saw you today is Thank You for all you do for me and express how much I am going to miss taking your classes when I leave. Yoga and Shiva Shakti have been on my mind. I will not be moving for another month or so, but of all the things I have come to love about this town, I think I'll miss Shiva Shakti the most. I have never had an instructor like you before. I have learned so much in the short time I have been there and I know I could learn so much more if I could stay. -Jeane
It's been 2 years for me since Gwen introduced me to yoga and I can't be grateful enough for that. Every time practice makes me a happier person. Gwen - the owner of the studio - is a wonderful yoga teacher and an awesome person who puts her heart into what she does. Not only she teaches beautiful postures and proper breathing, she also inspires people for greatness and lights up their eyes. Every single class is filled with positive energy, enthusiasm and happiness. That's why I love Shiva Shakti!! –Irena
My first experience with Yoga, Gwen is Thoughtful and receptive to the needs of the class. –John
I’ve never smiled so much in a yoga class. -Blossom
I have never practiced yoga before and didn't know exactly what to expect. I had a sense that it would be relaxing and challenging, but i never expected that both could come in a complete and whole package. In the beginners class, our instructor took us through wide range of stretches which included one stretch where we worked with a partner. In several of these positions, I felt my body and muscles move in ways I never have before. We were instructed to "bring our body to a new area or dimension" with each class. Basically - to teach and enable our bodies to move safely in a way they have never moved before. I was so impressed with how easily our instructor was able to explain what we should do and how to enable us to go further. Sure, there were a few times where I was lost but I had imagined that this is what my entire first class would be like. It was such a pleasant surprise to find what I was capable of doing and what I never knew I could! The atmosphere is slow paced and relaxing, at some points of the stretches I could have fallen asleep while at other points my whole body would shake to maintain the pose! I can honestly say that my body had a great workout. This workout was nothing like the cardio that I am used to, but my muscles feel like it could have been! –Monica
My husband has noticed a radiance about me since starting practice. -Maureen
Shiva Shakti Yoga taught me a lot about releasing tension in the hips, breathing into poses, the connection of muscle groups with each other and how that relates to my alignment, working with injuries, the MELT method, using props such as bands, chairs, and giant exercise balls, using the Barre and Pilates. Gwen is a truly versatile, highly experienced, and compassionate Yoga instructor. She does private instruction and reiki healing sessions, too, which their loving Yoga Therapy dog participates in - a truly fun aspect of the studio. She's a short haired, clean, and sweet dog who doesn't bite but snuggles. Gwen combines aspects of Hatha, Anusara, and Iyengar yoga. All levels welcome.
Wonderful yoga studio! Gwen is an awesome teacher, very unique and continuously researches/incorporates new and interesting things into the yoga at Shiva Shakti, but she balances it so beautifully with traditional yoga as well. She really just gets it, and she wants to share it with all of her students. It’s always a special experience here, every day! Been with Shiva Shakti for 2+ years and have seen less injury, a healthier mind, and a healthier physical body all around. Highly recommend!
Great yoga studio! Gwen keeps the classes fun and challenging to deepen your practice. Very open community. Love this place.
Shiva Shakti Yoga Center / Gwen is the best! She is a kindhearted yoga teacher and person who has so much patience and really cares about the people who walk in her doors at Shiva Shakti Yoga Center. Her warm smile and gentle manner make all feel at home and welcome in her classes. I have taken many classes with Gwen over the last few years - through times of great health, times of much physical pain and even through a pregnancy - and she always tailors her classes to the people who practice that day. I have never had another yoga teacher like her and I will never find one like her. I say when you find a great teacher stick with her wherever she goes. Gwen is that teacher and Shiva Shakti Yoga Center is that place. Thank you Gwen for all you do. <3 <3 <3
It's really good. And they teach with lot of personal attention. We are doing it since couple of years and we can really feel how it helps for our health and keeping us active. We learn from panna ma'am and we are very happy.
This is really a wonderful place to unleash your capabilities and helps you connect with the divine. Me and my wife had a very great time here with Gwen , this is really a great place to develop both core strength and flexibility. Gwen is really experienced and design classes based on students requirement .
Love love love Shiva Shakti. I attended my first ever yoga class at this studio about 2 months ago. I expected to be intimidated and self-conscious at my first class, but this was not at all the case. Shiva Shakti is a very warm and welcoming environment. Being so new to yoga, I am surprised at how comfortable I am getting with certain poses, and I attribute that to Gwens teaching style. Even if there are a lot of students in a class, she manages to pay attention to everyone and really guide each person through the session. Much love to this place. –Kristin
This is a very large and beautiful space. I took my first class yesterday with Gwen and she is such a warm hearted, wonderful teacher. I say teacher instead of "instructor" because she did way more than instruct us through a class. She listened to our needs, and built the class around us as individuals adn created a class that was wonderful. She "taught" us more about how bodies, and how to open and release tension in the areas we are all so tight in. I can't wait to go back! –Christopher
I found this place after trying several yoga studios in the area. I was happily surprised to find such a wonderful place! Gwen is the owner and instructor for some of the classes. She is what makes this place so special. When she teaches she really tries to get to know everyone in the class (if she doesnt know you already:) and tailor the class to the students needs. So you know that no matter what time slot or class you show up to you will be getting what you need! Gwen also likes to have a theme to class which I love. It creates an atmosphere that is comfortable. I am not what I would consider a yogi so sometimes instructors can be intimidating but gwen makes class seem like a conversation with an old friend :) I will continue to go to this studio even after my deal runs out. The space is also beautiful and very inviting! –Melissa
Relaxing, conducive setting. Generally plenty of room (though some classes can get a bit crowded). All around excellent yoga venue. –Ora
This is a fantastic yoga studio. Gwen is a wonderful person and a wonderful instructor. The yoga classes are challenging, rewarding, satisfying, fun - both physically and mentally. The space is great too. I highly recommend for all levels. –Kate
This was my first group yoga experience and I felt very comfortable. The instructors have changed up the workout every day I've been there, which has kept it interesting. The studio is very nice and has all of the extra equipment that you need. Gwen has inspired me to try things I felt weren't possible before. She does modify her classes to the attendees and tries to accommodate all ranges of skill sets. I highly recommend Shiva Shakti. -Matthew
I've taken many yoga classes but never remember receiving such wonderful attention and positive encouragement as I did at Shiva Shakti. Gwen's gentle, caring approach helped me feel comfortable as well as challenged (in a good way!). For example, prior to class, Gwen had asked the students if there were any areas that they'd like to focus on and made sure we addressed them in class. Gwen's adjustments were very effective and her guidance was clear and personalized. Gwen provided a nice variety of postures, inspired by different yoga styles, primarily Anusara. The studio was welcoming, spacious, clean and well kept. Visiting from out of town, I found the location of the studio to be very convenient. Parking was plentiful and easy ; after 6pm, the parking is free. I felt so refreshed after I left. I will drop in everytime I come to the Waltham area! I recommend Shiva Shakti to locals and out of town visitors, as well. –Jane
Awesome yoga studio. I take classes with Gwen, she is so attentive. She encourages you, is very mindful of your poses and assists you with alignment. So far in 2 classes I have been able to pop into a wheel and handstand, both of which I was leery to do in my other classes. I have been practicing regularly for 3 months. There is plenty of parking and the location is nice and quiet. She just opened so classes aren't crowded which is a huge perk in my book. I get really anxious when classes are mat-on-top-of-mat and the person next to me's back sweat is gliding onto my mat.... Megan
Shiva Shakti Yoga Center is a sun-filled healing center with gleaming hardwood floors, a beautiful gathering space with over-stuffed comfy couches and chairs, and welcoming teachers. A focus on alignment and heart-centered joy makes each class splendiferous! –Diana
I love the teacher and the space. Gwen is a most wonderful teacher. I am a beginner to yoga, she always makes me very comfortable to practice to the level that I can handle and push me further more without give me pressures. I would say every class that I've been to is more than just doing yoga. I feel so relaxed and refreshed after every single class. –Jean
A great teacher in a beautiful studio with easy parking in the side street lots. Gwen both challenged me and made me feel at ease. A wonderful experience!! -Deborah
Trace, something happened -- I took a class at Shiva Shakti on Moody Street yesterday during my lunch break, and I don't ever want to take another class in the style we learned to teach in, ever again. Oh my lord -- Tracy, you have to try Gwen's class. My body has been opened in ways I didn't know were possible. I can't even describe to you... It started with a tennis ball... She had us roll on it in the crease of our hip, and she said this sometimes releases your psoas, in an instant. As soon as she mentioned the psoas, I knew I was in for a treat! It's not as much of a flow as what we do, but it's incredibly focused on anatomy -- it's as though she were a doctor in a past career! -- and you get into your muscles and joints deeply. Just for example, she taught us to do strenuous exhales "into our low belly and pelvis." I'm sure I've heard HYP teachers say this before, but Gwen actually demonstrated for us, explaining that these are extremely deep areas of the body and that the only way she's been able to access these muscles effectively is to exhale so deeply, she almost makes animal sounds. We focused on hips and backbends. Tracy, backbends are, like, my thing, you know? And yet no teacher has ever gotten me into position like Gwen did. –Barbara
Love this and love all you are doing!!! Can't wait for the day I get to your gorgeous shining center! -Anjali
Gwen is a powerful and intuitive healer and knowledgeable and fluid yoga instructor. I have practiced with her for several months now and have experienced a shift in my practice and my body. Her facilitated stretch sessions are amazing! If you are working through any injury or "stuckness" in any aspect of your yoga or your life, she will help you to create opening and movement. In short, working with Gwen will make you feel GOOD!!
Beautiful practice, Thank You Gwen (and Luna) Namaste
The most unique and authentic yoga class experience i've been a part of.
So glad I have found such a great studio to get back into yoga... Loving it!
"I feel like a ballerina" age 68 woman post just 1-hour class together!
"Thank for all you do to attend to the needs of all of the people in your classes. You are a fabulous yoga instructor!
'You are great for my soul too with doing yoga I have made things happen in my life that I did not think were ever possible you run such an amazing space and I always have loved the energy even when I am exhausted I just have to be there. Otherwise I feel like I am missing something.'
I’m so glad I found this studio! Gwen is a knowledgeable, intuitive, and fun yoga and pilates teacher, and she really cares about her students.
We were staying in Boston for a few weeks for work and found Gweniveres yoga studio and Im really glad we did. We loved the variety of her classes and how she adapted them to the students needs on the day. Its very easy to find traditional yoga classes that go through standard flows but its rare to find a teacher that listens to the needs of her students and then develops a class to suit. She used a range of equipment and props and takes pleasure in teaching what she knows and seeing her students progress. We absolutely loved the variety and have been to lots of different classes as we travel a lot and this was one of our favourites.
Gwen is amazing - she's a wealth of knowledge of countless methods to reduce pain and stiffness and make her students feel amazing. What's better is she wants you to be able to do this on your own in a way that's more manageable fiscally and sustainable. She's always learning and sharing and works really hard to foster a positive community around her studio. So glad I found her studio! On a personal note I'm a marathon runner and I truly believe my success is/was only possible thanks to help from Gwen. I come running to her with every pain/discomfort I experience throughout training and she is ALWAYS able to help. She'll help in class, after class, in a 1:1 session and she provides instructions/tips for at home to prevent recurrences. Before I came to her I had ever present hip/IT band pain from running among other stiffness and soreness and thanks to her its all gone! I ran a marathon last spring where it was really cold and pouring rain the entire duration. I was SO INCREDIBLY STIFF after. I came home, spent a couple hours on the soft roller and using balls and other things Gwen had taught me and by end of session I was nothing more than fatigued. Woke up the next day feeling amazing. IT WORKS. Thanks Gwen!
Gwen is a powerful and intuitive healer and knowledgeable and fluid yoga instructor. I have practiced with her for several months now and have experienced a shift in my practice and my body. Her facilitated stretch sessions are amazing! If you are working through any injury or "stuckness" in any aspect of your yoga or your life, she will help you to create opening and movement. In short, working with Gwen will make you feel GOOD!!
No two classes ever look the same, because of Gwen's awareness of the practitioners in each particular class.
The teaching of yoga and pilates goes beyond the poses extending to the mind and body awareness.
What a great find! I went to the restorative/Yin yoga classes that were fantastic. Gwen has a unique way of presenting some wonderful stretches and creates a warm atmosphere for everyone. It was great to attend a truly diverse yoga class without judgements. Sadly I'm just visiting, but would try the pilates and other classes if I could!
Gwen has been an amazing teacher for me over the last year. She has been welcoming and has cared about each person's specific issues they are trying to address in their yoga class. She is able to see where you are at and design classes to meet your needs. She has been incredibly helpful in understanding alternative ways of addressing pain and caring for pain by opening up different areas of the body. I have valued her classes so much in allowing me to be in my body so much more than I would have been able to otherwise. She provides a positive space to be challenged and supported making you want to keep coming back.
Luna the dog is super friendly and a great presence in class - she has a way of keeping things light during yoga class.
My chiropractor is telling me whatever you are doing with my shoulders in yoga class is working.
Thank you so much for clearing my lower back pain and sciatica!!!!
No two classes ever look the same, because of Gwen's awareness of the practitioners in each particular class.
You have helped a lot in a short order!
Since seeing for private yoga classes you my neck and shoulders are feeling so much better, I'm having less pain.
The teaching whether pilates or yoga goes beyond the poses extending to the mind and body awareness.
Gwen is a powerful and intuitive healer and knowledgeable and fluid yoga instructor. I have experienced a shift in my practice and my body. In short, working with Gwen will make you feel GOOD!!
You have created a wonderful shelter for yoga classes, filled with kindness!
45 minutes flew by -- studio felt like I was in an inviting friends house for pilates class. Will definitely be back!
I loved this pilates class and the Instructor! I can't wait to return!
Good work out with great Cueing.
You get me breathing!
Since coming here the past few months for yoga classes I’ve come out of panic attacks. And if I see one coming on, I find from these classes that I can consciously breathe my way it out of it. I'm going to stay with my practice because of you, this has made such a big difference!
Thank you so much for this place, it so special for me to be here with everyone in these yoga classes, it is such a great addition to my life!
It was great. All your yoga and pilates classes really are. I am never bored and I learn something new in each class. I appreciate the emphasis of joint protection while strengthening muscles.
I just came back from my doctor, and my autoimmune antibodies have gone down by 75% in the past nine months from my last testing, and I attribute it to coming here and the practices that you have been teaching me in private yoga classes!
When I came in things were so hard at the time that I was almost on the verge of tears, after seeing you for yoga class for just that hour, I felt peaceful and much more in synch with my body.
After years of trying to get pregnant and going through eight miscarriages, I am very happy to tell you those visits to you for private yoga classes brought us a beautiful baby boy.
It's been about a year and my back is feeling so much better from your yoga classes, thank you Gwen!
You always seem to know exactly what I need even before I do in yoga class, thank you!!!
I absolutely love this time on the Pilates Reformer with you, what you are doing with them is really special, I love these pilates classes -thank you so much!
I am always feeling so much better after I make it to your yoga classes!
Shiva Shakti has changed my life, Gwen is extremely caring and diligent. She is an excellent pilates and yoga instructor who makes things interesting, challenging and fun.
Gwen is an amazing pilate and yoga instructor she takes the time to get to know her students and tailors classes to meet the needs of those who arrive. -I am beyond thankful I found Shiva Shakti. I look forward to every class and see and feel the difference in my physical, mental and emotional wellbeing.