Neighborhood: Cow Hollow

Chill out, you want to say to your kids sometimes. Well, you can instead help them get into their own little zen-like state by taking them to yoga and meditation classes at San Francisco’s It’s Yoga, Kids. The only yoga studio in the Bay Area created specifically to serve the needs of children and their families, their specialized classes support mind and body development and calmness for all ages and stages.

It’s Yoga, Kids exists to promote overall health, relieve everyday stress, and inspire healthy connections between kids, parents, caregivers, and educators. The founder (and one of the current instructors) Michelle Wing was introduced to yoga in Santa Monica in 1991, and, even after moving to San Francisco, has incorporated yoga into her daily practiced ever since. She was heavily involved in her career in marketing and sales until the birth of her daughter in 2002. “I was shocked to experience that what I had considered to be significant contributions to my career became instantly irrelevant. I began to think about how I could be with my daughter and other children. After a yoga practice at It’s Yoga that summer, the thought, “What about yoga for kids?” came to me and I felt inspired,” recounts Michelle. After researching, developing, and teaching in schools, Michelle opened her studio in 2006.

This unique yoga studio offers classes for kids, adults, and families, not to mention customized parties, teacher training programs, and on-site workshops. No previous yoga experience is necessary. Classes include Baby Yoga: 2mo-12mo, Toddler Yoga, Pre-K Yoga, Storybook Song and Dance, Teens, and Special Needs. (The studio also offers prenatal, and Mom and Baby yoga sessions). Session rates are very reasonable: the Kids’ Yoga Series, for example, which lasts ten weeks, costs a modest total of $180. Ninety days of an unlimited Adult, Prenatal and Mom and Baby pass costs $250—think of how calm you and your little yogi would feel!).

Located at Ruger Street just inside the Lombard Gate of the Presidio of San Francisco, the building contains a spacious studio with bamboo floors and abundant natural light—plus easy parking, thankfully (several minutes of circling a block is enough to disrupt one’s peace!). Parents waiting for their younger children to improve their Downward-facing Dog can calm themselves in the relaxing and organic, wholesome atmosphere. Help your children start a lifelong habit that is proven to lower stress, increase happiness, promote a sense of confidence and well-being, and prolong life. Plus, instead of asking your children to chill out, you may simply bow and say: Namaste.

Free and fun to do, Lombard Street in San Francisco has become one of the most popular tourist attractions around the city. But what about for the people who live here? Well, let's not lie…it's fun for them too.

The street is steep, hilly and curvy…but it also allows for some of the best views of San Francisco's beautiful Victorian mansions. Paved with bricks, it makes you feel as though you've been transported into some forgone era, rather than the modern city that it is. People often think that the street is too busy and that they can't experience the trill of riding down or climbing up. But that's just a misconception. Although it is busy because of the speed in which people have to descend, there are plenty of times throughout the day when the street is empty and ready for you to take your trip.

Although it's just a normal street to the people who live around the city, it still makes your heart skip a beat when you know you get to drive down it. The residents don't mind at all that they live on one of America's most crooked streets, but they do ask that you keep your squealing to a minimum while they're sleeping. Located only a few blocks from Ghirardelli Square, you can make a quick trip over to Lombard Street and get in a little exercise. In fact, many of the locals use this street to get in their cardio for the day. Think of it like a man made StairMaster…just with beautiful scenery. It can be quite the workout on your legs.

On a normal day, it'll take you less than 15 minutes to drive down the street. If possible, try to park around it and just admire the beautiful flowers that blossom during the spring and summer. The residents are incredibly proud of their landscaping and love to show it off. The locals like to come out not only to see the landscaping, but also to watch the slew of tourists struggling at each of eight switchbacks that are set on Lombard's 40 degree slope. But really, it's just pure fun.

Getting There

Lombard Street is very easy to find. It begins at The Presidio and runs east through the Cow Hollow Neighborhood. It goes for about 12 blocks but isn't as crooked throughout the entire street as it is when it hits the one block on Russian Hill between Hyde and Leavenworth Streets. This is where the fun really begins.