(Anchor Bay Entertainment)
2002
What is it?
Thirty-seven minutes of gentle Yoga, divided into three segments. Charles and Lisa Matkin are the instructors.
Who is it for?
Anyone who is a Yoga and exercise newbie will like this routine. Although the poses are familiar to any beginning Yoga student, the ones shown here are specially geared to those who have digestive problems, high cholesterol, weight management problems, diabetes, or poor circulation.
What to expect:
The Matkins are experts in therapeutic Yoga and have designed custom programs for chronic injuries and illness. They are, however, not miracle workers - there's no way a video or DVD can address your own specific physical problems. If that's what you want, you need to find a therapeutic Yoga specialist in your own town (perhaps one who practices Viniyoga). While this gentle Yoga routine claims to address a number of common conditions (weight management, high cholesterol and the like), it's not meant as Yoga therapy per se. Instead, the program is meant to embrace wellness and improve the metabolism, which will help ease the symptoms of the conditions mentioned. The routine, which lasts a little more than half an hour, is good for anyone who is new to Yoga, but that does not mean it's easy all the way through. Yes, there are modifications - Downward Facing Dog is shown with bent knees and during lunges, you are encouraged to drop your back knee to the mat if it's too challenging to hold the leg straight - but you also have to perform twists in Powerful Pose and there are some Bridge variations, all of which may be challenging for many Yoga newbies. For individuals who are trying to get into shape for the first time, the program is divided into three segments, none lasting over 15 minutes. The DVD can actually be divided into even smaller segments. Overall, this is a pleasant and simple routine, one that will gently nourish the body and soul.