How newbies, veterans and DIYers can improve their yoga and meditation practices
Happenings in and around L.A. wellness circles:
Yin yoga is one of the least intimidating methods of the practice. It’s basically long, slow stretches to bring on a state of relaxation. An introductory workshop Saturday at Culver City-based Goda Yoga will show how Yin and Gong Yoga (the sounds of a gong add to the ambience) can be options for newcomers and experienced yogis alike. The session runs from 6.30 to 8.30 p.m. and costs $40 in advance, $45 at the door. godayoga.com
A shopping workout: Swing by a Bloomingdale’s in Beverly Hills, Century City, Glendale, Sherman Oaks or Santa Monica between 3 and 5 p.m. Saturday and snap up a $10 gift card, a day pass to any Los Angeles-area Crunch gym and free treats from Bare Snacks and Steaz Cactus Water. If you shop, Bloomie’s donates a portion of the proceeds to the AIDS research organization amfAR. bloomingdales.com
It sells fitness clothes, but on occasional Saturdays, Avocado boutique on Abbot Kinney Boulevard offers free yoga classes. The store is housed in a converted bungalow, and the complimentary sessions take place in the backyard, beneath the shade of an oak tree. The next one is at 9:30 a.m. on Sept. 10. RSVP at shopavocado.com.
Incense is a part of many yoga and meditation practices. But the fragrant, smoldering sticks are a mystery to many. On Oct. 1, the Line Hotel in Koreatown will hold an incense workshop — delving into the origins, benefits and symbolism — and will show participants how to make their own. $95 per person. thelinehotel.com
