Gurus Gone Bad

If you’ve ever taken an awesome yoga class, thank the Beatles. The practice grew wildly popular in the West only after Hindu guru Maharishi Mahesh Yogi became the Fab Four’s spiritual advisor in the late ’60s. Studying under him in India, they learned transcendental mediation and the asanas — or positions — of yoga. The tutelage ended shortly thereafter, however, when half the band tired of the vegetarian diet and the other two jumped ship after their yogi reportedly hit on Mia Farrow and other women in attendance. Lennon went on to write “Maharishi” (with the lines “What have you done?/You made a fool of everyone”). When Harrison suggested the track was libelous, Lennon changed the title to “Sexy Sadie.”

Take your Beatles-soundtracked sun salutations outside with Yoga in the Park every Monday and Wednesday afternoon at Tina Hills Pavilion at Bayfront Park and Saturday mornings. Admission is free, but you must bring your own yoga mat, water, and towel. All classes are taught by a certified yoga teacher.

Mondays, Wednesdays, 6 p.m.; First Saturday of every month, 9 a.m., 2011