FAQS

Learn about our approach
Concepts & Terminology
What is Health At Every Size (HAES)?
HAES is an evidence-based paradigm for personal health and healthcare where, realising that “health” is complicated, multi-dimensional, not a barometer of worthiness, not an obligation, and not entirely within our control, the focus is on giving people information and options and respecting their decisions about healthy behaviours, and creating environments that are conducive to health, rather than on manipulating body size as a path to health.
What Health At Every Size ISN'T
I often come across some confusion about what's at the heart of HAES. The acronym HAES stands for Health At Every Size - not to be confused with 'healthy at every size' - HAES doesn't say that all bodies are healthy, rather that all bodies have the right to seek healthful behaviours and treatments if they wish, free of stigma.
What is body positivity?
What is intuitive eating?
Intuitive Eating is an approach developed to help people find peace in their relationship with food, often healing from the side effects of chronic dieting. An intuitive eater is defined as a person who “makes food choices without experiencing guilt or an ethical dilemma, honours hunger, respects fullness and enjoys the pleasure of eating.”
What is self compassion?
I discovered self-compassion about 3 years ago and since is something I practice daily. Each day provides plenty of opportuntities to soften my inner critic with compassionate thoughts! The thing I love about it is the science behind it, and that you can offer it to yourself, at any time.
What is diet culture?
Diet culture is the culture that surrounds us that values thinness over body diversity and equates thinness with health and morality. Diet culture oppresses those that don't meet this. It's the culture that keeps many of us trapped in a war with food and our bodies. It's the voice that silently counts macros or turns down the birthday cake or feels tremendous guilt for missing a workout - and it's all wrapped up in a giant big fear of fat. We're absorbing society's messages everywhere that thin equals attractive and healthy, and fat does not. We're led to believe that fat is the culprit of many diseases and that intentional weight loss is the answer, and we don't often stop to question this, or to examine the 'research'. We are so, so, so terrified of fat in our culture, that kids as young as 8 years old are dieting.
What is a self-compassionate, intuitive approach to movement?
But I'm worried that I won't push myself, that I'll 'let myself go'
At Haven we encourage you to be inquisitive and notice what feels best for you at that time. We want you to find your authentic energy levels. We’ll work with you to help you read your body's signal's and recognise what you need from a holistic perspective that encompasses both body and mind. Sometimes you’ll be energetic and charged and we'll encourage you to explore your body’s boundaries in a stronger session and sometimes your body will call for an easy pace or something completely different - this answer fluctuates daily and is flexible.
General Studio Info
What should I wear?
Wear whatever you're most comfortable working out in! It's a private studio - just me one-on-one with my client or in our small group classes with other lovely members so you can be sure to be welcomed and feel comfortable. Yoga and stretch classes are run barefoot but fitness classes are done in shoes. For your intitial session it's helpful to wear something that allows me to see your posture.
What do I need to bring?
A gym towel and water are handy, but don't worry if you forget, we've got your back! We have a small stock of extra.
Why Haven?
You come to Haven for more than just fitness and yoga.
What happens if I'm running late?
We appreciate you arriving a few minutes before the class start time, but we appreciate things can happen and will do our best to accomodate you if 5 minutes late.
Do I need to book classes?
Yes! Our class sizes are intimate, so spaces are limited. Book ahead via the app or web login to get your preferred classes and be sure to cancel within the booking window so you can reuse your class credits!
How big are your class sizes?
We're a lovely intimate studio and you'll regularly find yourself in the company of 2-5 other members, though find most classes accommodate up to 8-10 max, with the exception of some yoga classes which can accommodate up to 15.
Is there parking?
During early mornings or late evenings you may find one of the two visitors spot free out the front, otherwise there is street parking. We encourage you to ensure ample time (sometimes it gets congested with lots of tradies around lately!).
What are the membership / class booking terms & conditions?
Read everything you need to know here :-)
Can I bring kids?
I love kids! Your little ones are welcome upon discussion - generally it’s no problem during one-on-one sessions, so long as you’re confident your child can hang out in the kids area and not venture away. This allows for me to focus on working with you and ensure safety.
HAVEN WELLNESS FITNESS & YOGA STUDIO
BY APPOINTMENT
SUITES 2 & 3, LEVEL 1, 46 EDWARD STREET, SUMMER HILL
0452 535 334