Compared to world cities such as New York, San Francisco and Hong Kong, London has lagged behind with its yoga studios.
There are a handful of really good centres - Yoga Place in Bethnal Green, Yoga Junction in Finsbury Park and Yoga Home in Stoke Newington - but little rivalling the sophistication and scope of celebrity haunt Triyoga.
Until now, that is. Last month (April) saw the opening of Alchemy - a plush new yoga and meditation centre carved from nineteenth century stables and described by the owners as "a magnificent space, blessed with expansive rooms and airy vaulted ceilings."
Interesting, there are two studios for two pretty different activities: as well as a Yoga Room, there's a dedicated meditation Cirlce Room, designed for inner reflection and quiet.
Where Alchemy really threatens to tread on Triyoga's toes is in its aim to become a central community for London yoga fans.
Until now, Triyoga has been the only London yoga studio to have a designated chill-out area in the form of a cafe. It's a pleasant, open (though sometimes noisy) space where people can chat between classes.
Alchemy's cafe and juice bar also intends to be a draw to yogis looking for some low key chilling and socialising - "Alchemy has created a setting in which people can come and feel comfortable to sit and relax and share with others", the website enthuses.
It's about time someone gave Triyoga a run for its money (and reputation) - some healthy yogic competition in the UK's yoga capital can only be a good thing.
The fact that Alchemy is based in Camden, only a mile or so down the road from Triyoga, could make the potential rivalry interesting to watch unfold.
I'll be visiting Alchemy soon and will report back in full!
Have you been to Triyoga or Alchemy? Are you a fan of either? Do log in and leave a comment.
Lucia Cockcroft, editor
