From Amazon.com
Trying to learn yoga from a videotape could try the patience of a bona fide yogi. How to know when your form is correct versus when you are risking injury? If you can't do that downward-facing dog with your legs as straight as the model on the tape, what's the best way? This beginner's boxed set solves the first problem through detailed and careful explanation of the asanas, then sidesteps the second by having two different instructors demonstrate both advanced and beginning version of each pose. It's a thoughtful, responsible, safe approach, one that reminds students to go at their own pace and to pay attention to their own bodies. Soft-spoken, non-intimidating Alan Finger begins each of the Yoga Zone's programs by demonstrating proper breathing technique. He then guides students through a clear, logical, and appropriately paced sequence of poses, emphasizing correct placement rather than throwing or forcing the body into position. The
Introduction to Yoga program covers most of the basic asanas used elsewhere in the series, including the potted-palm series, cat, dog, mountain, and triangle, while subsequent tapes move on to more advanced variations on these fundamental yoga building blocks. The
Conditioning and Stress Release program systematically relaxes every muscle in the body, and the more vigorous
Flexibility and Tone uses standing exercises like sun salutations to build heat in the system and promote flexibility. Finally, the two sessions included on the
Meditation tape provide a welcome reminder that yoga is about much more than just working out. Unlike many videos that bill themselves as "introductory," these Yoga Zone tapes will leave neophytes feeling relaxed and renewed rather than clumsy and confused. This is the boxed set to buy if you're looking for a nuanced understanding of how yoga works rather than just sweat-drenched intensity.
--Mary Park
From the back cover
Yoga Zone is a fresh, accessible approach to yoga. Designed exclusively for beginners by internationally-known yoga master Alan Finger, discover the unique way to shape your body and your mind:
Yoga Zone.
Introduction to Yoga: Experience reduced tension, better-toned muscles, and inner harmony in this inspiring beginner's workout, which teaches the basics of yoga.
Conditioning and Stress Release: Combine the conditioning power of yoga with the stress-reduction benefits of deep relaxation to reach a new level of fitness.
Meditation: Two Complete Programs: Seek higher levels of relaxation, self-affirmation, and enlightenment, while limbering your body and strengthening your muscles.
Flexibility and Tone: This series of postures flowing one into another will increase your flexibility and build muscle tone. You will emerge from this workout feeling refreshed, revitalized, and relaxed.