London's first mass outdoor yoga session took place as the sun rose in Leicester Square recently.

Over 100 people participated in the event, which was organised by activity for health charity Central YMCA. It forms part of the "Healthy Heart of London day" for local workers in the area.

Wilhemina Crown, one of the yoga participants, began yoga classes just three months ago through Central YMCA's Workplace Activator programme. She described the event as 'great fun', adding "given the right conditions, I'll grab any opportunity to detox my mind before a full day's work."

Robin Gargrave, Director of Innovation and Development at Central YMCA, says the event is a great health initiative and expressed his delight at seeing so many people take part and local employers giving their support. __

"We know through the Activator programme that if employees are given a nudge and a bit of support it can do wonders for increasing activity levels. We also know that exercise and activity is a great way to energise people. I can guarantee that despite the early start, the participants in today's yoga class will feel less stressed, more refreshed and even more productive when they get back to their desks!"

This mass city yoga session follows the New York model where thousands of participants each summer take part in yoga sessions in Times Square. Sarah Porter, Chief Executive of Heart of London Business Alliance said: "We believe that this could be the beginning of regular activities and events for businesses within the Heart of London area. We are delighted that so many businesses supported this event and were keen to be involved in an early morning yoga session."

Yoga and other health initiatives were organised today to support businesses in the Heart of London area invest in their health and well-being.