Good Investment for Yoga Enthusiasts
359043
Exactly what I expected. I am thrilled to have a yoga mat that is not harmful to me or the environment. Works great!
695795
I am not a big yoga fan. In fact, most yoga DVDs bore me.  But something about Shiva in the video clips always intrigued me.  She is really an awesome instructor. I wish I had paid less attention to the reviewers that said this DVD was not for beginners, as I wasted time and money on some really boring beginner DVDs.

I look at yoga as a way to enhance the other fitness activities I already do.  I completed the first three flows today after doing the elliptical trainer and strength exercises, in replacement of my regular stretching & flexibility routine.  I would not normally complete 45 minutes of yoga in one sitting, so I do appreciate that each of these flows can be performed individually.

I have hip dysplasia on my right side, a bad knee (left side), and a posterior innominate rotation on my left (this means when my back rotates my right leg becomes shorter than my left). Thanks to physical therapy and a focus on core strength & flexibility the rotation is now mostly stable. I continue to work through the other issues.  While I may comment on these limitations in my review, I would not deduct points in my rating because this DVD does not claim to be therapeutic for any of these.  I simply include the notes in case they are of help to someone else who may have some similar limitations.

These are the flows I completed today:
1) Foundation flow:  This was a very relaxing and simple flow, starting with breathing and going through some basic flexibility poses. The breathing would be something that if presented wrong would really bore me, but Shiva did a great job.
2) Beginner's Backbend Flow:  I had completed part of this flow as a bonus on another DVD and it convinced me to order this DVD. This is such a relaxing flow. I can see completing this flow many times in the future.  With hip dysplasia on one side and a bad knee on the other, I find balance when doing lunges on one side is not as good as it should be.  At times I did place one hand on a table for balance.  I look forward to my balance improving as I repeat this flow.  Also, I did not squat down as low as Shiva did when doing the chair pose with twist, but found my own variation.  The only pose I did not perform was the bow pose (for fear of pulling on my knee), so I did cobra instead. With some slight modifications, I feel this flow can be adjusted for beginners, and Shiva also mentions some modifications during the flow.
3) Relaxing Flexibility Flow: Coming from a non-yoga background, I recognize variations on standard priformis and hamstring stretches.  (I do use a stretch strap for the hamstring stretches.)  This is followed by a great hip/inner thigh stretch that was new for me, and then a sitting forward bend. This flow is very relaxing and I think most people would be able to complete it.

I agree with other reviewers that it would have been nice to have a matrix as the fourth flow appears to be quite different than the other ones, and the shivasana is at the end.

I have not yet tried the Beginner's Standing Pose Flow, and will likely update my review once I have.  I think this is the most challenging flow on the DVD, and gives me something to work into. I have also ordered Shiva's newest DVD (Daily Energy - Vinyasa Flow Yoga) and can't wait to receive it.

UPDATE:  I've used the first three flows many times times now and love them.  I've already worked past the minor limitations I mentioned from the backbending flow.  I can see using these flows, in particular the backbending flow over and over again.

I finally did get to the standing flow today.  I did flows in this order: Standing, Backbend, Flexibility.  I felt so relaxed when I was done. These are nice, gentle, soothing flows for me.  This DVD continues to be a favorite that I expect I will use over and over again.

It's interesting as I look back at the review because yoga has now become a regular part of my routine - this DVD was the starting point for that.
944879
After doing a good amount of research I decided to give the Zuliex yoga mat a try. I really like the thickness of the mat. The mat is very comfortable without being too thick where it feels squishy and heavy. The 1/4 inch cushion is great for a variety of the poses I do, whether it's kneeling, stretching or laying down. This mat is the perfect balance, not too sticky or too slippery. It is in that middle ground where you are not sliding around or feel like you're glued to the mat making the workout comfortable. I do keep a towel nearby in case I begin to sweat a bit too much on the mat I can wipe it off and keep the stickiness at the optimal level. I also like the length of that mat being that I am 5'11" my arms and legs don't hang off the edges. I was able to find the color I wanted - very good selection of colors. I have really been enjoying my Zuliex yoga mat. Great purchase.
3185780
I hemmed and hawed about the painful price tag of this mat for a long time, but finally took the plunge and ordered it.  I've done yoga for about 8 years off and on, presently am not a high-frequency yoga practitioner, maybe 2-3 times a week tops, but I do use it for stretching and core work as well almost every day.

Well, I have to say that I've been very pleased.  Even though it appears not to be hugely thicker than my el cheapo $15 Reebok mat, the Manduka has a very comforting solidity and firmness to it that's hard to describe...but it just MAKES me want to use it, and when I use it, it makes want to hold poses longer for some reason, lol!  So hopefully with this around I will become more regular in my yoga practice, largely out of guilt at how much I paid for it.

Out of the box yes it's slippery until wiped down with some warm water and soap.  No biggy.  About it being slippery when sweat, well rather than blowing $45 for a Manduka mat towel, I find that my $4 terry hand towel from Wallyworld gets the job done just fine.

The other thing I love about this mat is its color---a dark charcoal, matte black.  I have it facing my meditation cushion and it's very soothing to just look at it while I'm meditating.  But that's just me, probably.  : )
2801161
A good value in a yoga mat. I bought three of them. They're perfectly adequate for my purposes, and would be adequate if I actually used them for yoga practice.
28328
I got this on the Vine and I do Yoga a lot, both at home and at a studio, and wanted to have one of these mostly for my back.

I have to say the little packet they give isn't that informative, but I used the Dharma Yoga Wheel's Youtube channel to really get a feel for the wheel.

While I'm flexible I can't do a lot of the poses they recommend with the wheel and I actually really love just lying on it and stretching out my back. So I wouldn't spend the money on a high-priced Dharma one, but for $30 I have found myself using it every night with my back.  It's also really good for stretching out my quads. I also use it for my oversplits.
4623674
This is an excellent DVD that I used as an introduction to yoga, and that I continue to use two or three times a week to supplement my yoga studio classes.
The movements are largely stretches, with none of the  "huffing and puffing" that more intense yoga can require. The  teachers are very responsible about showing alternate poses when needed.  The standing poses helped me with my initial balance so that I was able to  sustain more challenging poses in my studio classes.
The production  values are very good, and the audio quality is great. Many yoga teachers  encourage the use of home yoga videos and DVDs, but recommend listening to  them more than watching them (after you're familiar with the sequence, of  course); with audio instructions only, you're more likely to focus on your  own body rather than trying to mimic the "perfect" teachers. This  DVD has great sound quality and instruction, and I'm able to turn away from  the TV and listen only.
I recommend this DVD for yoga beginners, and for  yoga intermediates looking for a light 20-minute program on days they can't  attend longer classes.
2462021
This is a great yoga workout for intermediate level yoga practitioners interested in practicing at home, and especially interested in focusing their yoga routine on weight loss goals. It includes a comprehensive introduction, and 22-25 minute workouts that you can do separately or combine into one workout. I like the 'Total Flow' workout, combined with a 'Strengthening and Energizing' workout. There is also a Core focus one, and some bonus material. The setting for all of them is beautiful, the instructions clear, and the workout comprehensive. There isn't much time spent on how to modify the moves within the workout, so this won't be right for most people who are completely new to yoga. It's also not a particularly difficult workout, so if you are looking for a hardcore 'power yoga' type of workout, this isn't it. But if you've had a moderate level of experience, this will be excellent for you.
55802
So I purchased this wheel to help increase my flexibility and to share with my friend as we attend yoga classes and practice on our own. I can say she is a lot more flexible than I am. This wheel has durable foam sides with a hard plastic frame. This allows for comfort while maintaining stability no matter what weight is put upon it. It comes with a large illustrated diagram of beginner poses, intermediate poses, and advanced poses. I use this a lot as a reference since I am just a beginner at yoga and want to make the most out of it. This wheel is best used on non slick surfaces. Having a yoga mat becomes almost invaluable. Though, carpet works great or rugs if you do not have a mat readily available. Routine use and prolonged periods while in poses will increase flexibility immensely. I plan on incorporating this into my daily routine at home to help work the tension out of my shoulders and neck. This wheel can be used not only for yoga but the stretching and strengthening of tight muscles. I have found certain poses are great for loosening and working my mid back and tricep muscles.

I am very pleased with this product. I received this product at a promotional price in exchange for my honest, thorough, and unbiased review. My opinions are my own.

The pics are of my husband being a goof ball. Will update with other pictures soon.
3629635
I am very happy with my Yoga Mommies DVD -- the session provides enough movement and interaction between myself and my 4 month old son to keep him occupied and content for the most part. And although it is not a particularly complete or challenging yoga workout, the session also provides enough stretching and strengthening to revitalize this mom who can't seem to find the time anymore for real yoga classes. It is a peaceful and fun activity for mom and baby to share, with the added bonus of a tummy massage for baby to aid digestion. Overall, I was pleased with the poses, movements, and relaxation this DVD presents for both myself and my baby.
2571588
I will preface my review that I haven't bought any yoga mats previously. The classes I took provided them for us and this was my first foray into purchasing one. I would say that while I have only had my mat for a few weeks I can already tell the benefit of it to my practice compared to the loner mat I had. The mat came as described, I got the green banded one because I remember some old 70's research study that green was "healing." It was a little slippery at first, but once I read and followed the directions with a through bathtub wash of my mat, washing my hands and feet before practice, and using the resin they also sell it was grippy as I desired. The mat is definitely more cushiony than it looks like, and I can really lean my knees into it without pain. I am very happy with my purchase, and have had several compliments from others in my class. In short, good stuff.
2117467
I've been doing yoga for the past few months and was just using a basic $20 mat from a local big box store and a towel over the top that's made for yoga practice. I wanted to invest in a better mat and this one had a ton of great reviews. I can say that all the reviews are correct and this is a great mat.

Today I realized that like half of my practice was just trying to not slide around on my yoga towel. This mat makes you stick to the floor much easier and helps you focus on the poses. The soft padding is really great on your knees. I like that it's extra wide and long as well; it doesn't seem that big in the studio but you definitely notice the difference.

The only thing thing about it that's not great is that it does stain a little from your body oils but it's utility in class more than makes up for that.
2409973
I've been doing yoga very regularly for over a year now and this is definitely not your usual yoga prop. But in the best possible way. It offers the ability for you to explore poses in different ways, work on flexibility, and (at least for me!) develop your strength in poses. The wheel is very sturdy and will definitely support you during your practice. Mindful Yoga also allows for you to be able to afford a yoga wheel. Other places (who will remain nameless) are very expensive (think $80+. I even saw some that were over $110!). It's also very comfortable especially when doing chest or shoulder openers.

My only suggestion (and I have voiced this to the company and they were very receptive!) would be to include some instruction, poses, sequences, or helpful links with using a yoga wheel. It's kind of tricky at times when you try to search for these things because usually the POSE "wheel" will come up and how to do it. Hopefully the company adds this to the yoga wheel soon!
599714
This is actually a great value for the money - I've only worked through the first two routines, and I feel like it's the perfect intro to yoga. I'm getting a workout, and learning breathing techniques, but don't feel overwhelmed.
3028671
This is a useful product for entry-level yoga. I had never taken a yoga class before using this video, yet it was easy to follow and simple enough for me to perform all the movements while still being challenging. The instructor gives ways of making each move easier or more difficult, depending on your ability level, and explains the advantages and uses of each pose.
706227
My Yogitoes has been a great addition to my yoga practice. Definitely better than using a regular towel and very helpful to keep slipping to a minimum when doing a vigorous vinyasa. My only caution is that when first starting your practice the Yogitoes is a little slippery itself. This goes away as soon as it gets a little damp from sweat.
1282759
Excellent DVD for those of us who have arthritis and other flexibility issues.  I use a combination of the seated chair positions and the standing positions using the chair as an aid.  I have practiced yoga off and on for a number of years but not recently.  I am no longer as flexible as I once was.  I was so happy to find out that much of my old yoga  training is still stored in the "cellular memory" of my physical body.  Some of the positions are difficult for me to do but I know that with practice I will become more limber with time.