Integral Yoga Natural Foods

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Years before Whole Foods arrived in Manhattan, Integral Yoga opened its own natural food store right next to its West Village yoga center. While at first sight, the densely packed market resembles a typical health food co-op (with a takeout section for sandwiches and the like), this purveyor of organic produce, pasta, and bulk staples like nuts, fruit, and beans has been blessed by a swami and raises money for its parent organization rather than a profit-driven corporation. The store's line of goods extends beyond fresh, pre-packaged, and frozen edibles, with environmentally conscious shampoos, cosmetics, soaps, and a house brand of body care products. Admittedly, the selection can’t hold a candle to Trader Joe’s, but specialty items such as honey with wildflower keep this small shop one-of-a-kind. — Nancy Davidson