Flexibility, Strength and Balance

Himalayan Institute

Categories: Yoga



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Flexibility, Strength and Balance

These are pleasant yoga videos. The beginner video is Flexibility, Strength and Balance which is a terrific introduction to the basics of yoga and proper form. Deepen and Strengthen could be classified as intermediate level. In both videos, there is only one participant, a young woman, who demonstrates all of the moves as a gentle voice over gives detailed instruction. You can listen to the voice without viewing your set and be able to follow the moves exactly, but it helps to look up and see how far the participant takes each position. The moves in both videos are taken from the book Mastering the Basics by Sandra Anderson and Rolf Sovik Psy.D., a comprehensive and practical guide to the essential elements of yoga. The book covers all aspects of yoga practice: postures, breath training, relaxation, meditation, lifestyle and fundamental philosophy. The videos cover breath training, posture and relaxation.

The setting and tone of the videos are calm and relaxing and the quality of production is good. The voice is calming and encouraging. I felt the Deepen and Strengthen workout was good, the instruction was excellent, but the video was somewhat boring. The postures are held for a long time in silence. I guess with so many wonderful yoga videos on the market, I would prefer an entertainment factor to be present. It was lacking in both videos. I actually enjoyed the Beginner video more, because I could see how it would help people who have limited flexibility and range of motion. The moves were held for shorter periods of time and the stretches were basic, but excellent. Overall though, I believe most people would enjoy the proper yoga foundation these videos offer.

Janet O'Neil

06/03/2001