Yoga in Seattle

Yoga

As far as accessories go, the yoga mat is almost as ubiquitous as Gore-Tex rain gear. The city has many yoga studios that can accommodate you, whether you're a Hatha, Ashtanga, or Kundalini devotee.

8 Limbs Yoga Center (500 E. Pike St., Capitol Hill. 206/325-1511. www.eightlimbsyoga.com). This center welcomes drop-ins and manages to challenge intermediate students without alienating novices. Hatha, Ashtanga, Satsang, and Viniyoga are offered. Classes cost $12 for one hour and $15 for 1 1/2 hours.

Punk Rock Yoga (punkrockyoga.com/seattle). No, it's not yoga done to the not-so-soothing sounds of the Sex Pistols. Punk Rock Yoga is a series of classes done in several different styles from basic Hatha yoga to hybrid styles that incorporate Thai massage techniques or belly dancing. Classes are held in several different venues around town, usually in either Capitol Hill or Fremont. Purists and overachievers need not apply: as founder Kimberlee Jensen Stedl told Seattle Weekly, she aims to "scrub the elitism and rigidity out of modern yoga." All ages and fitness levels are welcome. Live music often accompanies classes thanks to a rotating cast of local musicians. Check the Web site for current schedules and locations.

Samadhi Yoga (1205 E. Pike St., Capitol Hill. 206/329-4070. www.samadhi-yoga.com). Samadhi combines yoga with an aerobic workout surrounded by statues of Hindu deities. Classes have an Ashtanga focus. Classes are $10-$15, less if you buy a multiclass card.

Yoga Life Studio (7200 Woodlawn Ave. NE, Green Lake. 206/529-0581.) This relaxing studio offers various types of yoga classes throughout the day and welcomes both beginners and experienced practitioners. Prenatal yoga, Reiki, and a monthly "TranceDance" combining yoga and music are also on the schedule, and massage and yoga therapy is available. As a drop-in you pay $14 a class; multiclass cards are available.