From its obscure origins as an ancient Asian discipline, yoga has evolved to become a fully-fledged, multi-billion dollar industry. In 2004, Americans spent a phenomenal US$2.95 billion on yoga and yoga products, according to a study conducted by Mediamark Research. Now, the global reach of yoga has come full circle, and its profile in its native Asia has dramatically increased. In an age of health and food scares, many people in Asia, and especially Hong Kong, are becoming increasingly aware of the importance of health, and with the economy on the up, more and more people are discovering the benefits of yoga.
A culture has grown up around it; events, fashion, travel, and a lifestyle of overall health and vitality complement the philosophy that yoga propounds. Many are starting to realize it’s potential as a counterbalance to the frenetic, and often unhealthy, Hong Kong lifestyle, and its growing popularity is to be confirmed on June 1, when the Asia Yoga Conference will take place in Hong Kong. Set over four days, the conference will bring out some of the most renowned yogis and practitioners from around the world, including Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, Swami Dayananda Saraswati, Swami Veda Bharati and special guest, 92-year-old Sri K. Pattabhi Jois. The conference will include lectures, demonstrations and classes on many popular and lesser-known forms of yoga. There is no better time to jump on the bandwagon and there are plenty of studios around that cater to every taste and skill level. And if you want to give yourself a total body and lifestyle overhaul, check out our list of spas, restaurants and nutritionists.
Yoga Studios
3/F, 167-169 Hennessy Rd., Wan Chai, 2827-9233.
www.amico.com.hk
A range of yoga variations, including the slightly intimidating Acro-Yoga (a combination of yoga and acrobatics) are offered in Amico’s two studios. There are group classes for all abilities and private instruction upon request.
4/F, Sands Building, 17 Hankow Rd., Tsim Sha Tsui, 3165-8080
www.bikramyoga.com.hk
A relatively modern twist on the traditional practice, Bikram Yoga was created by self-proclaimed “Yogi to the Stars”, Bikram Choudhury. Classes take place in a room heated to 37 degrees Celsius and students move through a patented series of yoga moves. One of the largest of its kind, the Bikram Yoga studio in Kowloon offers more than 30 types of yoga and Indian dance in over 350 classes per week.
Room 406, New Victory House, 93-103 Wing Lok St., Sheung Wan, 2541-0401.
www.iyengaryogahongkong.com
The center, the namesake of famed yogi B.K.S. Iyengar, has antenatal classes and classes designed to help with spinal and postural problems are also offered.
Level 9, Tower 1, Grand Century Place, 193 Prince Edward Rd. West, Mongkok, 2111-8880.
www.livingyoga.com.hk
Located above Mongkok KCR station, Living Yoga is an immense 21,000 square-foot yoga studio. Qualified instructors from India and Hong Kong offer various levels of Hatha and Hot Yoga, conducted in both Cantonese and English. In addition to yoga, the studio also provides beauty and massage services in its ten private therapy rooms.