Relaxation & Breathing for Meditation
The importance of the breath is familiar to anyone who practices yoga, as is its significance in the pursuit of a deeper, more meditative state. But it never hurts to be reminded of that connection, especially as yoga's growing popularity has turned it in a more active, less contemplative direction. The title of this DVD program pretty much describes the content; it consists of two approximately 30-minute sections, one ("Conscious Relaxation") devoted to several easy, relaxation-inducing poses and the other ("Conscious Breahing") focusing entirely on the breath itself. (Also included are an 8-minute "guided meditation" and an interview with instructor Rodney Yee.) It's unlikely that you'll break a sweat, and you won't "go for the burn," as yoga practitioners seem intent on doing these days--but you might reach a place of stillness that's considerably more profound. Note: The use of certain props (mat, blanket, pillow, chair) is recommended.--Sam Graham