IN times like these, when the importance of a healthy lifestyle and strong immune system are being high-lighted to us daily, we need to start looking for new or alternative ways to reach these goals. Yoga may just be the way forward.

　　The word "yoga" is derived from the Sanskrit root "yuj" meaning to bind, yoke, concentrate one's attention on, use and apply, or unite. The practice of yoga, therefore, requires deep concentration and it aims to develop and unite both the body and mind.

　　The activity results in numerous health benefits for that same reason. It combines a challenging, physical workout with peaceful mental activity.

　　It can aid circulation, increase strength and flexibility, improve posture and enhance overall fitness, as well as being a highly effective way of promoting weight-loss.

　　Yoga has also been known to alleviate just about every type of ailment from sinus to digestive problems.

　　Y+, the newest yoga studio in Shanghai, focuses on two types of yoga, Ashtanga and Bikram.

　　Bikram, or "hot" yoga, involves practicing a specific sequence of 26 poses in a special studio that is heated to 37 degrees centigrade insgroupsto replicate the climate of yoga's birthplace.

　　The intense heat increases perspiration and further promotes detoxification as well as allowing you to work deeper into your muscles and joints. Students get a more challenging and intensive workout and are left feeling even more refreshed.

　　Ashtanga comprises a series of postures woven together using flowing movements to create one sequence.

　　Students are encouraged to focus on their breathing insgroupsto clear and calm the mind while helping to develop an "internal stillness". By synchronizing each movement with breathing, it becomes a type of moving meditation.

　　The postures are designed in a specificsgroupsto realign and detoxify the body and nervous system. Ashtanga helps students develop a balance between strength and flexibility while improving their cardiovascular fitness.

　　Stressed out?

　　Increasingly busy and stressful lifestyles are starting to seriously effect the health of most city-dwellers. For this reason, Y+ emphasizes the importance of the mental aspects of the activity just as much as the physical, with the final half-hour of every class dedicated purely to meditation.

　　The purpose-built "chillout room", with it's magazines and fresh juices, adds to the peaceful, relaxing atmosphere of Y+. There is also a secluded rooftop terrace with rich greenery and views of surrounding old buildings, which can whisk you away from he hustle and bustle of the big city.

　　In essence, this is a singular activity. Classes are kept small to encourage personal development in each individual student.

　　However, yoga also provides a healthy alternative for corporate gatherings. It is well known that fitness and wellbeing have a direct connection to efficiency and productivity in the workplace. Participating in stress-reducing practices such as yoga can create a happier and more relaxed atmosphere in the workplace.

　　The studio's official launch was on May 1 and classes are already reaching capacity, so advanced booking is a must. There are numerous discount yoga packages available and special introductory rates will continue until mid-June.

　　Newcomers get their first lesson for 100 yuan, and can then have an additional Bikram class for free.

　　No. 299-2 Fuxing Xilu.