Living Yoga - Power Stamina Yoga for Beginners [VHS]

Power Stamina Yoga for Beginners will make you sweat--and that's the idea! Muscles stretch better when they're warm--and when you follow this demanding sequence of yoga positions, you will be. Power yoga is the rage among athletes such as runners, cyclists, and climbers, who find that it protects them from injury, promotes flexibility, and increases muscle strength and endurance. Based on the classical astanga system, it combines breath control with movement to bring body and mind into harmony. In only 20 minutes, this tape takes you through several sun salutations, standing strength poses, and even 4 minutes' worth of conscious relaxation, leaving you feeling strong, energized, and centered. Plus, the background scenery is terrific--not just Rodney Yee himself, but also the pounding Maui surf behind him. A word of caution: though this tape says it's "for beginners," it's most helpful for those who know some basic yoga positions already. The sequence moves quickly, and there's not a lot of time for learning a pose that's new to you or even for paying attention to form. --Mary Park

Price: $9.98

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Yoga Journal's Yoga for Flexibility (Beginner's Practice) [VHS]

Yoga Journal's more advanced offering of yoga stretching exercises presents two routines for flexibility: back stretches and front stretches. Each routine begins with a short warm up, though if one is not already well practiced in yoga stretching techniques, not to mention already flexible, some of these stretches should not be attempted. Even the so-called "moderate" poses for those with less strength and flexibility are difficult to achieve. Patricia Walden encourages the viewer to practice often and work toward the stretching goals, and conscientiously demonstrates the stretches in a methodical manner. The principles of balance and strength in all parts of the body (achieved by practicing both front and back stretches) is a lofty goal for many, but one to work toward in small increments. The two distinct routines in this video are conveniently presented separately so that they can be combined or practiced alternately. (If you're not already on your way to yogic flexibility, in the beginning you may be sitting out a good part of this video.) The production value, like the other Yoga Journal offerings, is consistently good and even. Certain stretches require props such as yoga blocks, but chairs and phone books are a good substitute for the home user. --Gilia Angell

Price: $14.98

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Dakine Girl's Kala Yoga Sleeve Bag

DAKINE Yoga Mat Carry

Price: $15.00

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