The Charge

Build strength, increase flexibility, calm your mind, and revitalize your body with yoga.

The Case

The preceding pretty much sums it up, but I'll try to say a little more. Element: Yoga for Beginners is a 51-minute practice led by yoga instructor to the stars Elena Brower. After a brief introduction, she takes us through a quick lesson in yogic breathing enhances the practice. We then move onto series of poses to stretch and strengthen the body, finishing with the requisite relaxation pose. I found the workout to be emotionally calming while still physically stimulating—exactly what yoga should be.

Despite its label, there are definitely poses that will prove challenging for beginners, but we're encouraged to modify or take breaks when necessary. If you're new to yoga, you will need to follow this advice. Elena provides many specific directions on how to perform these poses effectively, while also explaining proper yoga terms. The best thing is that the level of difficulty involved makes this a DVD you can continue to work out to even as you become more competent.

The visuals are beautifully shot, with Elena filmed against a backdrop of lush foliage and the crashing ocean surf. The music enhances the practice as her instructions come through loud and clear.

As an added bonus, Element supports the Arbor Day Foundation by financing tree planting, making this DVD good for your health and good for the Earth's health too. What's not to like?

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