An Insider's Guide to the Best Yoga Studios in New York City

New York City is truly a place that never sleeps. With endless activities to consider and chaos of the thriving city; many Manhattanites turn to yoga to achieve a little peace of mind. It is not unusual to see yoga mats being toted along with briefcases or a Hermes bag. Being an expatriate of the Big Apple, I have scoured the island for best yoga studio to get your Zen on.

Levitate Yoga is located in Midtown Manhattan. This little oasis is a tranquil yet cozy studio that is decorated in east Asian style. According to Connie Chan, the owner, the philosophy of yoga is not a restrictive way of life, but a choice made by each individual. So she doesn't mind if you do wear Louis Vuitton or the latest Prada, this simply can be your stress free zone.

OM Yoga was voted the best yoga studio in 2007 by New York Magazine. The studio is owned by Cindy Lee, an internationally respected yoga teacher. All the classes here are Vinyasa, a more vigorous and energetic than traditional Hatha yoga. However, no worries as this studio also offers Hatha classes too. There's a smorgasbord of classes here including absolute beginners series. The studio is a bit spartan like, but this is a great place to start exploring yoga at your own pace.

Bikram Yoga Union Square also known as hot yoga gets a lot of flack for being "unyogi" like, but there's many devoted students of this intense and sweaty yoga. Honestly, this is the best workout you will ever get in your life. Geared for more type A personalities; I am sure even professional Athletes will find the 90 minute classes challenging. The studio is a spacious loft with a locker room filled with shower stalls. You are going to need it after practicing in 105 degree heated room.