For a VF favorite, this seems scantily reviewed, so I’ll just add my 2 cents here.

David Swenson is an internationally recognized instructor of Ashtanga vinyasa yoga, a vigorous yoga style that emphasizes breath, flow, and bandhas (locks) rather than precise alignment. It is classically taught as a strictly choreographed series that normally takes between an hour and a half to two hours to complete, and full of poses that require extremely open hips and shoulders. Swenson does a superb job of presenting three abbreviated sequences drawn from the primary series, each taking 15, 30, and 45 minutes respectively. In addition to presenting shorter versions of the ashtanga sequence, he also provides modifications to make the poses safer and more accessible to the beginning practitioner. As ashtanga injuries are on the rise in North America, his precautions and respect for the limitations of the average Westerner’s body seems very apt.

Each practice begins with sun salutations, then according to the length, includes a variety of standing poses, seated poses, and a variation of the closing sequence. The strength of this tape is Swenson’s ability to show the different variations, from the very accessible to the seeming super-human. His voice is calm and almost hypnotic, with an underlying sly humour that seems to carry you along. He does include inversions such as shoulderstand and headstand, but provides for a headstand prep rather than full headstand if you prefer. I normally prefer to do shoulderstand supported on blankets, but since it is not held very long here, I don’t worry overly much about just doing it on the floor. Some ashtanga practitioners consider props to be an interference to flow and I can see their point there, but I personally like having them handy and don’t hesitate to use them.

This is not a slick, fancy, Gaiam type production with spectacular scenery and music. It looks to be filmed outdoors in an arboretum of some sort and David’s mat seems to be laid out on some sort of walkway through a marsh. The camera work is simple and basic but clear, and the audio is strictly David’s voice – no trancey music or anything. You don’t miss it, though.

The relaxation portion is very nice. No strange imagery, just a very soothing guided relaxation that releases any remaining tension from the body. Did I already say his voice was soothing? It’s even more soothing by the time he gets here.

Short Forms is a great practice (well, three great practices) for people building up to the primary series, or people who know the primary series but don’t really have time to do the whole thing. Or, those who have no intention of ever doing the primary series, but just want a little ashtanga in their lives. This tape is a great way of getting just the right dose.

Oh yeah – do not freak out at the introductory sequence David does at the start of the tape, where he goes into handstand, then lotus in handstand, etc etc. Those poses are several series’ down the yoga road.

Instructor Comments:
An obviously devoted yogi with a highly advanced simplifies and distills ashtanga for the rest of us. You gotta love him for that.

Sophie