If you can’t find a yoga class in L.A., you’re not trying

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‘The worst misconception about L.A. is that it’s ‘laid-back,’’ says writer Sari Heifetz in the L.A. Times’ The Guide. ‘It’s stressed. We sit in hideous traffic ... and keep a tenuous grip on self-esteem amidst a culture that emphasizes external beauty, physical perfection and the possession of material things.’

She doesn’t mention the economy or, even more stressful, kids’ athletic programs, but her point’s well taken. Her solution: yoga.

Here’s what she has to say about the philosophy and practice of yoga. Plus, a list of local yoga studios.

And if you’re afraid of looking like a novice (though, really, you need to get beyond that), here’s a primer of poses, courtesy of Yoga Journal. Warning: Attempting to try the king pigeon pose right out of the box is not naturally destressing.

-- Tami Dennis