Yoga Mind and Body

Erich Schiffmann, Ali McGraw
Year Released: 1994

Categories: Yoga


I have to admit--I hated this video at first. It was my first yoga video (I now have about 15), and my previous yoga experience was prenatal and postnatal yoga classes that took a very down-to-earth approach to yoga. If you are looking for a video that approaches yoga from an athletic standpoint, this may not be for you. But if you are willing to explore the mystical aspects of yoga, this one can't be beat.

This video is good for the intermediate in yoga. I would not recommend it as a first yoga video. Some of the poses are quite challenging, and the chanting soundtrack, the desert photography, and the mystical approach as a whole may intimidate some (as it did me).

I can say now that of all my yoga videos, this one is near the top of my favorites list. The length is perfect (45 minutes), and it is challenging yet extremely relaxing all at the same time. I'm glad I hadn't found the video exchange when I first got this one, because I would have certainly missed out!

Instructor Comments:
Erich Schiffman's monotone suits the video and makes it quite relaxing. His form pointers and cuing are excellent. One thing I don't like, though--his cuing right/left does not mirror what you are doing. I just follow his right/left cues instead of mirroring the exercisers. Ali McGraw's form, as well as the form of the other exercisers, is excellent.

Kristin Aziz

01/01/1999