 [Larger view] | Yoga Journal's Yoga for Strength and Energy
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 Strength/Energy -- a longtime favorite. | |
| These yoga practices have long been available on VHS. I've been working with Yoga for Strength for over 10 years and it remains one of my favorite recorded yoga sessions. It includes 2 sequences, one focusing on inversions (just over 1/2 hour) and the other on arm balances (just under 1/2 hour). The instruction is detailed and careful in the Iyengar manner and Yee's form is impeccable.
Yoga for Energy has been on VHS for almost as long and it's another long-standing favorite. It contains 5 short (5 min. to 15 min.) sequences that correspond stages in the day, starting with a lovely gentle warm up, an energizing balance flow, a vigorous full body routine including wheel, a relaxing series of seated forward bends and final relaxation. Instruction is minimal so this one isn't for those new to yoga. The combination of these 2 practices on one DVD is really hard to beat. Seems like a natural balance to me. I've been practicing yoga for over 10 years, supplementing my home practice with Iyengar and Anusara classes. | |
| Two great workouts | |
| This DVD includes two very different workouts that have both become staples in my practice. Yoga for Energy is a perfect am workout, slowly warming up the body, progressing into more challenging vinyasa (flowing sequences) and ending with deep stretches to relax and calm the body. It is well balanced between flexion and extension and covers all the movements of the spine. Note that you will need to be familiar with the poses to follow this workout. Yoga for Strength is a slower, deeper workout developing muscle strength, balance and stability. It is appropriate for all levels and includes some introductory inversions. | |
 An Outstanding Daily Practice | |
| I love Rodney Yee! He is so refreshing and inspirational. My favorite part of this DVD is the "Yoga for Energy" practice. There have been weeks when I have done this practice every single day. It never disappoints. I really like the lack of verbal instruction (although it does help if you are familiar with the poses before doing this practice) and the simple format. I like that the practice is balanced and very inclusive. You work every part of your body during this practice. It is helpful that he has an appendix of useful modifications for people at the end of this section. It is worthwhile to watch the entire 45-minute practice first, before trying it along with Rodney and friends. The "Yoga for Strength" section is also excellent and provides a good way to learn many of the poses before moving on to the more flowing Energy practice. I think it is perfect for the person who has had a few classes or done a beginner tape and is ready to establish a daily routine. |
