Yoga goes Mainstream.
(The Wall Street Journal)

Yoga goes mainstream; at Katz Media Group, an empty office has been transformed into the company's yoga room, mats and blocks stacked in the corner.The media firm picks up the tab for an instructor who comes in from Integral Yoga, a national studio that now offers lessons to about 10 companies in New York. Those who participate report feeling more energized and less stressed, and say they react more calmly in tough situations. Yoga has crept steadily away from its hippie roots and into the mainstream, says this article.

For graphic design firm Lomangino Studio it's an inexpensive tradeoff, setting the firm back about $400 a month for twice-weekly classes for five employees, and paying off in better posture, more teamwork and greater focus in the year they've offered it. Most companies that try it find workers are confused at first. Many think it's a religious practice; to counter that misconception Integral Yoga eliminates the before and after chanting. Some hesitate to show up in workout clothes and exercise next to their co-workers (although it's a gentle kind of exercise). And some leave when they find out they have to do it barefoot. Firms that are more conservative are still a little hesitant. But as stress levels and costs go up, yoga might offer a simple way to meet multiple needs.

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