Inner City Peace

During your visit to London you will find that life in the city can be fast paced, hectic and at times, exhausting. There is always something happening and it can be very hard to find time for yourself, which is essential (as we are constantly being told) for your health and development. One of the best ways city dwellers have found to detach themselves from the never-ending buzz of activity (which London is known for) is yoga and meditation. Yoga is an excellent way to relax your mind whilst simultaneously getting the blood flowing around the body, and meditation gives you time to find your inner space. Why not allow yourself that luxury and visit one of the following havens? These little oases of calm can be found buried in the bustling city centre.

Yotopia

Along the backstreets of Covent Garden, you will come across Yotopia, a safe house from all the madness of the busy streets; a place that can answer all of your yoga needs. They have two studios; one specifically designed for hot yoga, the other more intended for temperate classes. Both studios have large windows allowing the rooms to be washed with natural light, enhancing your relaxed state and therefore your practice. Although this may seem like a small number of studios, they have an extensive timetable starting at 7am continuing all through the day up until 8.30pm! Why not try their Yin Yoga class? This type of yoga is a slow, meditative practice whose purpose is to relax the body, open the mind and therefore promote calmness. "Yin is a class for all levels," Said instructor Marcus Veda "You hold a deep position for 3-6 minutes, but as you are supported by props, you can use the time to focus on breathing, slowing down your thoughts and really separate yourself from the hectic everyday life you lead."

On entering Yotopia you will be greeted by a friendly receptionist who will sign you in to your class. Although you can just turn up, it is advised you book in advance (either online or over the phone) as classes can get full quite quickly! Before you head upstairs to the studios you must take your shoes off and leave them on the racks; Yotopia is very passionate about keeping their studios clean and hygienic, which is very apparent as soon as you arrive. Yotopia has a minimal attitude to decoration, with white walls, picturesque photos scattering the vicinity and plenty of light. Immediately you will be washed with a sense of calm and relaxation. Yotopia provides mats, lockers and has towels to rent for £1. Post class, there are showers with shampoo, conditioner and body wash - so you can continue your day feeling fresh. You can pick up a refreshing coconut water as a treat after your class. It is one of the many delicious things they sell from their fridge in the reception area. Single drop in classes are £16 but if you fancy trying more of their classes, why not grab their introductory offer of £35 for 20 days?

Inner Space

It is very unlikely that you will find anywhere similar to Inner Space in London. Only streets away from Yotopia, at a first glance you would never guess Inner Space is anything other than a self-help book shop. But upon closer inspection you see that it is so much more than that. They have a designated meditation room, that is open and available to anyone all through the day; so you can drop in whenever you like and take the time you need to relax and unwind. If you are new to meditation, they have various classes offering guided meditation sessions - just go online and check out when you can book. It is all completely free.

"I first discovered Inner Space when I was looking for courses to help my self confidence," said meditation fan Charlotte "The course really changed my perspective and started my journey of meditation which has really helped me in my day to day life! I work nearby so sometimes I pop in for 15 or so minutes on my lunch break."

Glow Yoga at Good Vibes

Another place worth visiting for a relaxing Yoga session is Good Vibes Fitness. With 2 studios (Fitzrovia and Covent Garden) there are plenty of classes on offer to restore yourself after a stressful or busy day. Look out for their Yang & Yin classes, which start with a light flow class and finish with relaxing, restorative stretches. What separates them from other studios is their 'glow' effect. Good Vibes employee and yogi explains "Our studios have infrared heating to allow the body to safely open and release, more than in a normal temperature studio. We also use special SAD lighting which is proven to enhance your mood!". So not only will you leave this session feeling revived, but your mood will be boosted too! Once again is it advised you book in advance as spots fill up fast! Similar to Yotopia a single class is £16 and they have an offer of unlimited classes at both studios for £45 for 30 days.

Fo Guang Shan Temple

And for the ultimate inner city oasis look for the Fo Guang Shan temple close behind Oxford Street. This Temple provides a sanctuary from urban life. It is an active centre of Buddhist Worship, with a goal of teaching the 'Bodhisattva' way of life. The way of life is to be energetic and free, something that almost everyone can aspire to incorporate in to their daily life. When you arrive at the beautiful grade 2 listed Victorian building, you will be invited in by the delicious smell of burning incense and the sight of beautiful coloured paintings. Stepping inside you will find your peace in the meditation hall or one of the four shrines?

Take time to visit at least one of these establishments during your visit to London. Even after one visit you will begin to feel the benefits and leave with a spring in your step! Give yourself the consideration and kindness you would extend to others because all of the goodness you put out into the world starts with how you treat yourself.