Summer begins and workshops are abundant. So if you can't get out of town, no worries. There's plenty going on right here in L.A. to help you rejuvenate and learn something new.

Vinyasa Flow Intensive with Vinnie Marino at YogaWorks
June 16 - June 20
Mon-Fri 7:00 - 9:00am
$185 by 6/2; $210 after 6/2

This intensive will take you deeper into your practice. And the intimate setting will give you an opportunity to explore variations not usually offered in Marino's crowded, drop-in classes. As always, Vinnie's eclectic music will set the mood for an energizing and inspiring practice.

Family Yoga with Gurmukh at Goldenbridge
June 15, July 13, September 21, October 19
Sundays 11:30 - 1:00 pm
Cost: $16/per class - kids under 16 are free!

This once-a-month class is designed for the whole family. Play, Dance, meditate and gather with your children (all ages welcome). Bring everyone - dads, grandmothers, grandfathers, aunts, & uncles.

Explore the Chakras with Ashley Turner at Exhale
June 14 and 15
Saturday and Sunday
12:30 PM - 3:45 PM
cost: $35 each day

The Chakra System is an ancient map detailing the 7 primary energy centers and the 5 elements that comprise the body-mind-spirit. If you always wondered what the Chakras are, this class is for you. Beginners, therapists, teachers, bodyworkers are all welcome.

Intro to Shadow Yoga with Matt Pesendian at Golden Monkey Healing
June 12, 14, 19, 21, 26 and 28
Thursdays and Saturdays
8:30 a.m. - 10 a.m.
$100 per series (a bargain!)

Pesendian just moved back to Los Angeles from Santa Barbara and he's eager to expose more Los Angeles yogis to Shadow Yoga. Developed by Natanaga Zhander, Shadow Yoga is rooted in classical hatha yoga but incorporates elements of Indian cultural dance, martial arts and Ayurvedic and Siddha systems of medicine. To sign up, email matt@goldenmonkeyhealing.com.

The SAY Esalen Yoga Festival
June 8-13, 2008
Sunday through Friday
From $370-655

If you decide you want to take a road trip, why not trek up to the Esalen Institute in Big Sur, to celebrate service, activism and yoga with Sharon Gannon, David Life, Seane Corn, Hala Khouri, Katchie Ananda, Suzanne Sterling plus special guest John Robbins.

The organizers describe workshop as a playful, energy-filled week of deep yoga practice, conscious community, and intention setting as well as live, tribal music and chanting with Suzanne Sterling, Joey Lugassy and friends. Afternoon intensives include exploring the path of service with the founders of Off The Mat, Into The World™ or "Activists in Action" where vegetarianism, sustainability, and permaculture will be explored. Enjoy the hot springs, Esalen massage, and gourmet, vegetarian family style meals.

Feel free to comment about your summer school experience. We'd love to know how you did.