Founded by world-renowned sage Sri Swami Satchidananda in 1966,
Integral is the ultimate urban Hatha Ashram. In addition to the six
carpeted practice studios, the center runs a health food store, small
book store, and apothocary. The “by the book” Hatha classes are
taught by graduates of the Institute's rigorous teacher training
school. Unlike most studios that focus on the physical workout,
Integral classes emphasize meditation and pranayama breathing as much
as asanas. Most of the clientele have been devoted to the Institute
for years, but beginners are welcomed. There are also specialized classes, including prenatal, yoga for arthritis and for those with HIV, plus free drop-in deep-relaxation classes.