『Beautifully rendered, simple&serene, handpainted Sung dynasty era design ink&watercolor paintings- Riverside motif, traditional symbol of luck&fortune, on hand crafted Rosewood frame folding screen, with mulberrypaper covered in silk, with 2" fine silk brocade matte border, shipped with pair of matched 3" brass geometric hangers for easy wall mounting, or use slightly folded as privacy screen, no two exactly the same, each a handpainted work of art- for the price of a print! Wall screens are a traditional gift for weddings, birthdays,&new beginnings, ships in 48 hours, professionally packed fully&insured via Fed Ex, expedited delivery available.』 fetish『 Asian Décor - Japanese Furniture - 28" Oriental Alter Cabinet w/ Chinese Shou Symbol (Long Life Cabinet) 』
Kakaku：26933 saved$269.33
Oriental Furniture
IPhone 3G used's review (alot of storage in a small piece) 『Many many flashlights and batteries are kept in this piece. I have it with inexpensive jade inlay flowers purchased from a store going out of business.』 『Finely crafted Chinese style tapered cabinet with dual Shou symbols carved into fine matte finished Merbu wood. Ships in 48 hours from our Massechusettes warehouse via Fed Ex Home delivery.』 fetish『 Asian Décor Gift - 18" J301 Puggi Thai Style Square Paper Lantern Oriental Lamp w/ Spindle Top 』
IPhone 3G used's review (Best Kundalini disc I own) 『Thank God this made it to DVD, I've already worn out two VHS tapes. I was fortunate enough to take classes with Carol in NYC before she moved to the wilds of northern Minnesota (my wife and I were really bummed). She and Ravi Singh were the best teachers we ever had (I own a bunch of Ravi's discs too but Carol's is my overall favorite). You don't have to be terribly experienced at yoga to enjoy this set, though it helps to be in reasonably good shape. It really puts you through your paces and leaves you feeling relaxed and energized. For me it is the perfect workout and I can't recommend it enough.』
(Not bad, music is a bit boring) 『I actaully enjoyed this DVD overall. I liked Kundalini yoga A Journey through the Chakras W/Ravi Singh better. They both had many of the same poses&many uses of breath of fire for many of them. The music worked much better, faster in Ravi Singh. I did feel good doing this dvd&as it progressed I did feel more energy. Her voice feels a little stiff&it's just her alone w/blank white background. It didn't have a wrmup&got right to it, but I as able to keep up&didn't get bored or want to turn it off though I get bored easily.』
(Great practice (and what strange reviews!)) 『I read these reviews and was initially turned off. However, my library had this available, so I thought I had nothing to lose and gave it a try. It's excellent. I taught vinyasa yoga for a few years, but I don't consider myself an expert- and certainly not on Kundalini. However, by the end of the practice I felt clear and happy, and the effect lasted well into the next day. The instructor is not, as others have pointed out, overflowing with effusive joy, but she is still inspirational and expert in guiding what I would consider to be a high beginner kundalini practice.
I've got to say, I think other reviewers overreacted to some of the kriyas used here. When I read "she starts with a full backbend", I was a little nervous. However, I don't think that's accurate. She starts with what others call "tabletop", not "wheel". I think your shoulders might complain more than your back, but I had no problems.
I also think that the concept of "flow" isn't appropriate for a Kundalini practice. This isn't vinyasa or in the lineage of Iyengar, Ashtanga or Viniyoga, for which that might be a more pertinent criticism. Kundalini, from what I have seen thus far, is aimed at releasing energy usually located at the base of the spine all the way up to the crown of the head and throughout the body. There is then perhaps a "flow" of energy, but not necessarily physical movement. Most of the practices I've seen usually start with movements aimed at opening up the chakras or energy centers from the base of the spine up to the crown of the head, perhaps starting first with spinal warmups. This practice was no exception, although she doesn't discuss the chakras at all.
This practice has quite a bit of abdominal work (though not of the "crunch" style), some of which may be too intense for absolute beginners, including the Kundalini staple Stretch pose, as well as a bicycle and inner thigh stretch/kriya. Even with a regular yoga and Pilates practice, my abs were still talking to me for the rest of the day- but I liked it. I also liked that even though there were several "stretchy" positions that utilized long holds, it wasn't as demanding of perfection as some other styles of yoga. Finally, I thoroughly enjoyed the relatively long rests between postures, as well as the guided meditations, relaxations and chants.
I think this practice can give physical "results" as far as weightloss and appearance, but if you're just here for the physical, you might find the other trappings off-putting.』
(It's a treasure!) 『This is beautiful, energizing and centering yoga. The benefits include a real work-out integrated with deep relaxation and meditation. It leaves you with an afterglow of tranquility, energy and vitality. Although I have invested in plenty of other yoga DVDs, I find that I keep coming back to this one time and again, as it feels like deep nourishment on both a physical and spiritual level. I highly recommend it to all. Many heartfelt thanks to Carol, for creating such a deeply moving program, and then sharing it with the world!』
(An Engimatic, Beautiful,&Inspiring Workout) 『Anyone who thinks this workout is disjointed clearly is not meditating while moving through this kriya. First, it's time to shed some light on what this type of kundalini sequence actually is. This is definately a Yogi Bhajan sequence. Bhajan created several kriyas with similar names - "Grace&Prosperity," "Flexibility&the Spine," for example. "Grace&Strength" is a fusion workout existing in an interzone between the original "Warrior Workout" and "Flexibility&the Spine." Like the "Warrior Workout," there is a running segment, frog pose, and several back bends like bow. Like the flexibilty or spinal kriyas, there are cobra, seated wide angle forward bends, wheel, crow squats, and standing back/forward bends. Carol is showing you exactly how this kriya would have been taught by Yogi Bhajan. Anyone who has ever done Ravi Singh's and Ana Brett's "Ultimate Stretch Workout" can see obvious similarities to this set. The difference is that it has a more rapid motion, contains an aerobic component, a segment designed for the heart chakra, and a rather complex abdominal sequence in the middle of the set. I personally think Carol magnificently explains breath of fire, what real strength is, and concludes her set with a beautifully inspired resting pose dialogue. As she says, this set is to improve your strength, not prove your strength. I have spent years doing power yoga, ashtanga, and kundalini. This segment, in a similar mode to Donna Davidge, works on the body and the mind throughout the day after performing it in the morning. Also, those hatha yoga critics who claim it is unsafe to begin in table top (truly one of the less difficult asanas) need to understand that before doing any intermediate kundalini sequence, one should already be warmed up. Before I do this or any kundalini set, I perform the Five Tibetan Rites. After doing any rigorous segment, Carol gives you more than ample time to consolidate your gains through a moment of still meditation. Realize, if you are doing yoga simply to de-stress through deep breathing, kundalini yoga is less appropriate than hatha, ashtanga, or power yoga variations. If you are doing this to actually raise kundalini, work the lymphatic, nervous systems, and increase the internal will linking the body and mind together, this is the type of yoga to do. Upon finishing this workout, even though it is made up of an anti-intuitive sequence, I feel active, strong, defined, and just as ready to take action in my day as I would if I did power yoga. Often, power yoga can make me feel too heavy or weighted down from too many held poses. I like how this unusual sequence jump starts my heart after running/skipping in place, making me feel extremely light on my feet. I also think her return to child's pose and her instructions on how to round up, using your abdominal muscles makes transitioning between meditating and action extremely fluid. Those who have criticized this DVD should take a look at a kundalini book and understand the wide variety of sequences Bhajan created before displaying their obvious lack of knowledge to the world. Carol Carlson didn't make this DVD for shock value, fame, or bedazzlement. It is clear that she expresses a true, deep felt love of kundalini and a true urge to give you, the viewer, a true kundalini experience.』 『Kundalini is a Hindu word that refers to energy that lies dormant in the spine until it is awakened and channeled upward through the chakras in the process of spiritual perfection. Yoga practitioners unfamiliar with kundalini may find Carol Carlson's 70-minute video a bit daunting, as it combines fairly energetic exercises with the "breath of fire": short, quick breaths pulsed by the diaphragm through the nose. Carlson uses a meditation mantra and a breath mantra as she moves through a series of stretches and strengthening postures.Kundalini Yoga with Grace and Strengthis undoubtedly a good resource for experienced practitioners, but since it is a little short on instruction and explanation, it is recommended for intermediate-level students and above. People who enjoy the postures and practices of Iyengar yoga might do better with theYoga Journal's series.--Jhana Bach』
『Stillness interpreted. It's more or less the intent that underpins every recording released by this non-Japanese grand master of the shakuhachi flute. Yet even in that narrow context,Yoga/Tranquilitymay stand as Lee's most hushed recording to date and thus is aptly named. Of the 11 pieces offered here (60 minutes total), silence represents the foundational element of each composition, with Lee providing only subtle shading or faint outlines to each barely distinguishable cloud of sound. No trills, no accompaniment, only a minimalist chromatic range. Outside of a few plaintive passages, particularly noticeable on the opening track, most earnest and advanced yoga practitioners should find that the disc provides worthwhile listening.--Terry Wood』
『The essential techniques involved in a vinyasa class are taught in this DVD and CD set. Vinyasa means the flow that results from a presence in each moment of action or rest. Watch the DVD and you will recognize a smooth undisturbed grace that guides this basic Jivamukti class. Review the basics or just rest in the confidence resulting from clear instruction, a great soundtrack, and all the extras on this flowing class.』
IPhone 3G used's review ("People"and"Equanimity") 『There's another review here that talks about BB's lack of physique and lack of participation -- those bother me, too. BUt his patter is just offensive -- the constant: ok, people... push yourself harder. This"people"thing and then a couple of his pet words -- e-quA-nimity - pretty grating. From a physical frame of mind, the single view (head on) of his class participants allows the viewer no chance to see positions and postures from a side angle -- very important. He's not terribly good about reminding you where your hips should be facing, etc. As a work out, however, I give it high marks. It makes me sweat and it challenges me, despite my 3-4x per week sessions.』
(Buy A Different Tape) 『I formerly had the video"Total Yoga"by Tracy Rich, which was a fantastic yoga video (I accidentaly misplaced it). I decided to try a new one when the time came to purchase one. To be frank, I HATED this video. With all the other partipants in the room, the yoga seems almost cultish (very different than Total Yoga). Baptiste does not do any exercises, and his bandana (?!?) and lack of muscle tone are very unmotivating. He also neglects to teach the proper 3-part breathing technique which is crucial for proper yoga exercise development. Do yourself a favor, and buy a better video.』
(Three Short But Golden Workouts For Athletes and Others) 『This is the first of the three-part Baptiste"Power Yoga"series. It is really three workouts which can be done separately or consecutively. The first is a flow series which is good for beginners and as a warmup before you practice your sport. The second is a terrific leg series which is great after a sport workout. It will strengthen and lengthen your legs and back, giving you a workout, a stretch and physical therapy to help you recover. The third session is a very nicely designed ab workout which really reaches into your core muscles and leaves you feeling much stronger and more integrated at the core of your body. These workouts are very well designed and will really help strenghthen and protect your body from injuries. They also leave you feeling great.』
(Loved This Tape!) 『I own several yoga videos, and have been practicing yoga for 6 months now. I found this video to be fun, not too hard and I am addicted to doing this one! Afterwards I feel so relaxed and rejuvinated.』
IPhone 3G used's review (not for beginners) 『this is a challenging practice that will make you sweat. it also may make your shoulders hurt from holding downward dog for what seems to be an eternity. i do like this style of yoga, however i am looking for a gentler practice. for beginners, i would say go with the rodney yee tapes.』
([Great] yoga workout) 『I am strong and flexible and this workout [worked]--I love it! Most of the poses are manageable, but it's nice to have room to grow so you keep wanting to do the tape. The abilities and bodies of the background people are inspiring. If you don't think yoga is a real workout, try this tape.』
(Still My Favorite Tapes) 『Not everybody likes Bryan's 1995 tape series, but these were my first yoga tapes and are still my favorites after all these years and many other tapes. No other yoga teacher's tapes leave me feeling as simultaneously loose, strong and tingling as Bryan's do. I feel that these workouts have also helped my athletic endeavors by making me much stronger, smoother and better able to move my whole body dynamically. I really wonder about the people who say that these workouts didn't make them sweat -- from what I can tell, every pose has deeper and deeper levels you go to to increase the muscular, breathing and balance challenge in the pose. I can't imagine being"bored"with these workouts when every pose seems to have endless potential.』
(Great stretch, but no sweat) 『I just completed this video, and I can not believe that I had been scared I wouldn't be able to complete it. I admit that I wasn't able to do all of the poses to their fullest form, but I didn't sweat AT ALL. (I should mention that I work out about 6-7 days a week and have had two years experience with power yoga) While it didn't do what it promised, Bryan did manage to make me feel looser and more relaxed (something extremely hard to do around finals time!). All in all, I think it was worth buying, and I will definitely do it again, but if you are looking to sweat and feel your heart really pumping, this won't do it.』
(A Very Powerful and Effective Practice) 『Bryan Kest just doesn't have too many videos that I don't like. I think I only gave one a less than favorable review and that may be simply because it didn't work for me personally at my level. But this video is one of Bryan's original, older sessions and it's excellent. It is a really powerful workout for folks who have some experience in Power Yoga and want to take it to the next level.』 『Bryan Kest, teacher of some of Southern California's most popular yoga classes, pulls out all the stops in this slightly shorter version of the challenging class he teaches in person. There are still all the gentle, firm admonitions to listen to your body, not to feel competitive with anyone else in how you do the pose (and as long as you heed them, you'll do fine). But Kest combines the classic warm-ups and longer-hold poses with a rapid succession of sun salutes, which will be gratifying to the advanced yoga student, but may make a first timer feel as though he dropped in to a Rockettes rehearsal by mistake. But if you keep at it, the tape is very easy to follow, and Kest's gentle, gruff voice is so soothing you find yourself relaxing even as you're pushing your body to its limits. And you can't ask for any more from a yoga tape than that.--Anne Hurley』
Kakaku：1999 saved$19.99
Energy Oasis / Silver Line Productions
Usually ships in 24 hours IPhone 3G used's review (Good blend of yoga and pilates) 『I used to take a "yogalates" class at the gym but I moved and there isn't a class like that at the gym here. So I was looking for something that was similar to the class I enjoyed and Kathy Ackerman's "Yoga-Pilates Fusion" DVD is just what I was looking for.
I find the moves flow together very well and the transitions are smooth. I also like that there are modifications for everything, and many things have several levels of challenge. I've worked out with the DVD about 14 times now and I can definitely notice an improvemnt in my ability to do the exercise, including moving up to the more challenging moves for some things. I have definition in my arms, abs, and legs again, and my back feels stronger.
If you are a true beginner with no knowledge of yoga poses, you may need to watch through it once or twice to figure out what a "down dog" and a "warrior one" are. She does a good job in some aspects of explaining which muscle(s) you should feel working. There is one move (hands off the mat to the side, kneeling on one knee, leg out to the side pulsing up and down) and I'm not exactly sure where I'm supposed to feel the effort so I'm not sure I'm doing it just right.
All in all I'm very pleased with the DVD and look forwards to other productions from Kathy Ackerman!』
(Unbelievable workout) 『This is a great and different workout. You will use muscles you didn't think you had. What's great is how you feel after doing it!!』
(Yoga-Pilates Fusion (Kathy Ackerman)) 『This is one of the best and easiest exercise DVDs to follow I've ever seen. It has several levels so you can start out slow and work your way up to the harder workout. The safety insert is also very useful to make sure you don't hurt yourself.
Kathy's personal story is an inspiration to all of us to to never say never.』
(A winning combination) 『An easy to follow all around work out with modifications when it gets too tough. I found a just right combination of yoga and pilates and as I am more familiar with pilates, I still had no problem following the yoga moves. I knew after the first day that I had done something different, and had a great new workout.』 『A unique mix of both YOGA and PILATES in one energizing workout: YOGA-PILATES FUSION! Founder of Energy Oasis, registered yoga and pilates instructor trainer Kathy Ackerman is dedicated to both physical health and spiritual well-being. Throughout this hour-long workout, Kathy reveals the secret to living better through exercise and the connection with spiritual self. Diagnosed with a life threatening abdonimal tumor in 2001, doctors predicted even after surgery that Kathy's fitness career was over. However, six months later, she was back to training, teaching, and competing in triathlons and adventure racing. Learn Kathy's secrets of staying focused, enjoying your workout, and becoming a better you. Special features include a summary of yoga and pilates positions and a safety modification booklet.』
Kakaku：196 saved$1.96
Fusion Pilates
Usually ships in 24 hours IPhone 3G used's review (Let's just say I won't be doing it again.) 『This DVD is not awful, but I certainly won't be doing it again. I agree with the other reviewers that it was boring, and not a great workout. I hardly even feel stretched out, much less worked out. The arm sequence was probably my favorite, but even that was both boring and too short.
Finally, she asks those of us in our third trimester to watch "Cassie and I" (not the real name). No - it's Cassie and ME. The bad grammar was actually really distracting. Maybe it's just because I'm hormonal, but it drove me nuts.』
(Great moves to Combat Pregnancy Pains) 『I bought two pregancy videos---this one and The Perfect Pregnancy Workout. Perfect Pregancy is my main stay because I feel like it really works me out. This one is much more low key and easier to do, and I do this video about once or twice a week. I like it because I feel like it has good moves to help my back and hips to not hurt. Negatives are that it's not difficult enough for it to be my everyday workout. It has modifications for your third trimester. I've never done Pilates before, but I found it pretty easy to pick up. You need a small ball, a dowel (which I took apart my broom and used the stick portion), and 2-3 pound weights. Good video but better as a secondary workout.』
(Great Beginner Workout) 『I am really glad that I ordered this dvd. I have never done any pilates before this. I was very pleased with the way she was really clear in her instructions. It's easy to understand and follow. I wasn't very active before my pregnancy, due to a surgery, but I can keep up with it and I truly do have more energy afterwards. I recommend this product, especially to anyone who has never done pilates before...you'll enjoy it.』
(Good workout, but not enough....) 『I enjoyed this DVD during my second pregnancy, starting in my 5th month. I have an extensive exercise/nutrition backround and was very active before both my pregnancies. I liked the exercises and found them to be helpful and safe (most importantly), but if you are used to a tough workout for cardio then you'll need to supplement with something else, even just walking.
I found that this video helped me to keep most of my flexibility and was especially good for those days when I felt too tired to workout but knew I needed to do it. I always felt refreshed afterward. One note, you don't need the specific equipment she has to do these exercises properly. I used a couple blankets, high backed kitchen chair and a wall and it all worked perfectly. I wasn't about to spend $$ on a big stick to use for a small segment of this video! Just watch it once before you begin, especially if you're new to Pilates or are not flexible. Of course, as I got bigger, there were exercises I found too difficult for me.』
(Poor Audio) 『The audio on this DVD was so badly done I couldn't even bear to watch more than five minutes, let alone do any of the workout. I was really looking forward to it, but the white noise in the background is so distracting and unnerving it wasn't worth the annoyance.』 『Discover how yoga infused Pilates can keep you in shape during your pregnancy. Jennifer Gianni's Fusion Pilates for Pregnancy is the first Pilates based workout designed to give pregnant women a challenging workout, without compromising safety. This unique workout includes modifications that are appropriate for each trimester. Pregnant woman of all fitness levels will be challenged and motivated by this inspiring workout.
This unique and inspiring workout:• follows guidelines from The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology• includes modifications that are appropriate for each trimester• challenges and motivates pregnant women of all fitness levels
Part 1 Safety Precautions for Pregnancy 2 Minutes Part 2 How to access and strengthen the Pelvic Floor 5 Minutes Part 3 The Pregnancy Workout 55 Minutes』
Kakaku：200 saved$2.00
Razor
Usually ships in 24 hours IPhone 3G used's review (Does she ever shut up?) 『I think she was a little too ambitious and excited to "impart her vast knowledge" of wisdom to the viewer. Where's the workout? One has to put up with her detailed and long explanations about how wonderful and meaningful each activity is before evern getting to try it. There are some workouts that claim to be express, but you still have to put up with an overdrawn explanation before each and every one. And some activities themselves take only a few minutes. She tries to explain that this is the "First in her series" and promised the next video will be much more fluent. Well, I'm sorry Jen...I didn't buy this with the understanding that I'd have to buy your videos like I buy the book of the month. In and of itself, it could have been a good beginner video, but she tries to cover sooooooo much. Next time Jen, try writing a book. Oh maybe you have, I really don't care...sorry. --Rose』
(A Breath of Much Needed Fresh Air!!!!!! Thanks Jennifer) 『This amazing DVD has been a much needed item. I am excited how my core and mind feel at the end of the HOT (Yang)&COOL (Yin) workout. I look forward to beginning the workouts as oppose to simply "getting through" to the end. Jennifer explores the human aspect of exercising with the much needed PERFECT BALANCE-YANG AND YIN exercises rather than the simple mechanical process of workout quick cooldown routine. It is especially important to have a calm mind and a willing vessel to want to perform the exercises. I especially enjoy the WAKING ENERGY SITTING and WAKING ENERGY STANDING segments. I was especially nervous with regards to beginning this new exercising process; however, I am certainly elated I took a chance. Though I have never experienced Jennifer Kries's workouts, I have become a devoted fan of her practice. My body actually feels hot and my mind is actually cool after practicing the workouts which then prepares me for a calm and peaceful day. If one wants to balance thier emotions, please practice the YIN YOGA and MEDITATION segment, it is simply wonder!!! I do look forward to progressing to level 2.』
(Thanks Jennifer!) 『Jennifer introduced me to pilates. Now she is introducing us to Qi Gong. Just the sitting, standing and 5 tibetans are worth the price of the DVD. Great mind and body workouts generating powerful healing energy. I am looking forward to level 2. 』
(Get your money's worth for a 3 hour mind/body workout) 『Dr. Beth Cholette&Rebecca Johnson wrote great reviews that I agree with almost 100% Jennifer Kries really knows what the mainstream consumer is ready for, though mind/body workouts have been around, she knows the average person is ready for it especially with such beautiful production&graceful backup assistants. The way she speaks to the camera says she aims this DVD in particular for those who are new at yoga, pilates&Qi Gong&those who are out of shape&inflexible. She encourages modifications&taking breaks. The production (sound, lighting, etc.) is practically high-budget movie quality. The backup dancers are very poised themselves. Jennifer's cueing can be a bit late. She gives a lot of info which is very helpful, but after a few viewings, you will wish there was a limited cueing version w/faster, more bass music to keep you going instead of always twinkling light music. The sitting&standing waking energy is great, though its a bit of a watered-down version. If you enjoy it, check out Discovering Chi or Tantric Toning for a less watered down workout type of Qi Gong exercises that will really make you feel your energy until you hummm with it. The 5 Tibetans I enjoyed here greatly. They are done at a fast pace to get them done in a short amount of time. Simply Spoga&Spoga also does them well with a great positiveness but slower pace. The pilates&yoga was done nicely, again, a lot of helpful information&though that requires a lot of stopping&talking&the pace is slow&relaxed. The jazz I agree with was very slow paced, a lot of good stretching, but the music was way too light&meditative so I had trouble forcing myself to finish it. The moves themselves are Broadway style. The ballet section was better, but like other reviews said, she&her backup don't mirror&she gives too much info on easy steps but not enough for the more complicated ones at the end. The yin yoga was great, she talks while you hold stretches for several minutes.
All in all, the concept of this dvd is great&will be great for beginners or those slightly or totally out of shape. Those that are already experienced or own DVDs in the above areas can skip this. Those who are sensitive to the vibes of the instructors will not find Jennifer's personality positive or calming&may make doing the workout hard. If so, you are not missing anything here other then the great production value&amount of content. There are plenty of other yoga, QiGong, pilates, ballet dance dvds out there. Most times is best to learn from someone who is an expert in only one fitness area since it shows passion to stay committed and much more practice with it.
You can see a trailer for this dvd&her waking energy dvd at collagevideo com 』
(Empowering Workout for Energy Enhancement) 『Jennifer Kries' new workouts combine energy enhancement with elegant exercises to inspire within an environment of emotional healing. The exercises boost your metabolism and tone you all over, but they also heal your spirit and nurture your entire being.
The set is interesting with a circular wood platform set against a horizon with a sunrise or a cloudy sky. The open-air feeling gives the workouts even more energy and freedom. Jennifer Kries gives you all the individual attention you could wish for and unlike "cueing" she actually seems to guide you into a space of total awareness so when she moves, you move and you are completely in tune with everything she is teaching you. This is to me a sign of a master teacher who intuits your every move, takes care of your every concern and knows exactly how to motivate you to reach your highest goals.
The first section explores a unique series of "waking up" exercises which include a gentle tapping of the body with the hands and you can really feel the energy start to move and vibrate through your entire being. This is when you start to massage your feet and awaken your "chi" or life force. "Waking Energy Standing" progresses into a warm-up dance that feels like an all-over body massage from the inside out. Side stretches lead into exciting challenges like the wing tip flex and then move to elegant purposeful exercises.
The 5 Tibetans are the "Rites of Rejuvenation." These exercises remind me of yoga and there is a focus on the breathing and the flow of the motion. I found that a towel on my yoga mat made the exercises comfortable and these timesaving exercises help to balance the charkas.
To correct postural problems, Jennifer Kries leads you through her classic Pilates series and in 34 minutes you have gone through a variety of exercises with an added sense of precision. The invigorating teaser is like a reward for keeping up with your training sessions and rolling like a ball is rather fun. A short side series is also included.
The set is beautiful, but in the Yoga section the beautiful cherry red and black outfits along with the turquoise mats makes this visually stunning. This is a traditional Vinyasa style routine with flowing postures and the integration of breath and movement.
The Jazz section is the most energetic and creative section because it involves a few unique dance steps that are fun to learn. The dance flows with a jazzy sensuality and you can let go and just enjoy your aerobic workout while working your way into a choreographed routine. A classy Ballet routine follows with classic dance exercises to make you feel like a real dancer.
You may want to find a big comfy blanket to put on the floor for the Yin Yoga and Meditation session. This 21-minute segment is perfect if you have been wishing for an extended stretching session. Here you enter into a deeply healing series of stretches that can bring out a variety of emotional reactions as your patience is tested. What this section really does is it allows your body to relax and then stretch while warm. This was exactly what I needed and you may find this is perfect as a daily stretch to increase flexibility.
Hot Body/Cool Mind has 8 exercise routines with 7 variations. When you start the DVD it will progress through all the routines or you can select a specific workout combination:
Hot (Yang) Energizing, Cardio-Pumping Power Cool (Yin): Calming, Gathering Recharging Hot (Yang)&Cool (Yin) Dance to Fitness - both dance routines The Perfect Balance - Yang and Yin: Pilates, Yoga, Meditation Original Method Pilates, Yoga and Dance - both dance routines with yoga and pilates On the Fly - The 5 Tibetans, Short version of Pilates and Jazz dance.
To be honest, I was more than impressed with the individual routines and how they are combined in the individual workout combinations. I've always thought of Jennifer Kries as the Pilates Goddess, but this DVD takes her to the level of Fitness Guru! This workout is spiritual in a subtle way, emotionally healing and physically nurturing.
Instead of depleting your energy, this workout gives you more energy so you can face your day with renewed strength and grace. The deep breathing exercises throughout also give you clarity of mind and gives your skin a healthy glow. I think this is one of the workouts of the future as we all move towards living longer and learning about the invisible dimensions of exercise.
Highly Recommended and Truly Fascinating!
~The Rebecca Review 』 『Studio: Razor Digital Ent Release Date: 12/12/2006 Run time: 150 minutes』
IPhone 3G used's review (What I always wanted in a yoga mat.) 『I'm in my early sixty's and have been doing yoga for most of my adult life. Teaching bring a lot of students with a wide variety of yoga mats. Over the years I've tried them all. I haven't bought myself a new mat in years because there was nothing out there that was anything special. I read a couple of very good reviews about the Jade mat. I went on line to find out more. I saw the price. I had to talk myself into buying the mat by saying that this is an investment in my passion. I had to let it air out for a couple of days to get rid of the rubber odor. I took it to class. The mat was great. I felt very secure and sure footed. I put my other mats away. I went to an all day Iyengar workshop. Everyone wanted to work with me on my mat or use it when I wasn't using it. Great mat. Well worth the extra cost. I hope I feel the same way after a year or two?』
(It stinks, literally and functionally) 『When you first get this mat, the eau de rubber is overpowering. Eventually, it does subside, but for me it never went away. Perhaps because the mat itself only lasted about three months. Indeed it was quite sticky, for a few practices. After about a month, the traction tapered off and it started to pill and crumble. A few months later, it was at the curb, er, I mean, recycling plant. Go with the Manduka. It's not great either, but WAY better than this.』
(Best yoga mat ever) 『Excellent ... just what I was hoping for. I already had one of these for myself that I purchased at my yoga studio about a year ago. I wanted to get the same one for my husband, and this is it. This mat does NOT slip no matter how long you use it, even when sweating profusely, and no matter how many times you wash it! LOVE IT!!! 』
(Best Mat I have tried so far.) 『This mat beats other yoga mats by far. I practice Yoga 3 times a week and I do sweat a lot. This mat gives you a firm foundation and although it is only 3/16 it has enough cushion for sore knees. I can say I do not slide at all on this mat. I have purchased cheap mats it the past and this is well worth the money. Also a bonus Jade Harmony plants a tree for each mat that is sold.』
(I love it) 『Although it is taking some time for the rubber smell to wear off--I love this yoga mat and would recommend it to anyone looking to replace their mat with an organic product.』
