Sara Holliday's Postnatal Total Body Toning Workout DVD (2007) Review

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(More customer reviews)I love this workout because it is fast-paced but easy to follow. Sometimes I don't have a full hour to dedicate to exercising. In a half hour, I can work all areas of my body, get my heart pumping and feel great. The beach in the background is also nice.

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New and seasoned moms can get their postpartum bodies back into shape faster with Sara Holliday's Postnatal Total Body Toning Workout.Renowned fitness teacher and licensed Marriage-Family Therapist Sara Holliday shares her secrets of how she quickly put her body back in shape after each of her two babies were born.Whether you're a new mom or have been a mom for years, this is a great exercise program to start because it's quick and convenient.This highly effective 30 minute workout is power-packed with simple and fun exercises that are designed to get your heart rate up while targeting common problem areas such as the abdominals, hips, thighs, glutes, and upper arms.As a mom of two, Sara Holliday understands that new moms can't devote as much time to exercise, even when they want to, while getting into the routine of caring for a new baby.With this postnatal DVD workout, busy moms can exercise at their convenience in the privacy of their homes without any extra equipment.All mothers can feel fit, be strong, and reclaim their bodies with this fun, invigorating, and motivating workout that will help tone their bodies from head to toe.Exercising with this DVD can help moms feel good about their postpartum bodies and gain a sense of well-being as they efficiently shed unwanted pregnancy pounds.The Postnatal Total Body Toning class may have the following benefits.The 30 minute exercise class is specifically designed for busy mothers.It provides moms with a quick exercise program to get back in shape and targets common problem areas including the abdominals, thighs, and upper arms. It allows busy moms to fit in exercise at their convenience without being tied down to class schedules and no additional exercise equipment is needed. The class increases muscle tone, strength, and flexibility.Regular postpartum exercise may help new and seasoned moms shed unwanted pregnancy weight and get their pre-pregnancy bodies back. It helps busy mothers nurtur

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Hot Moves For Cool Chicks- A Burlesque Workout (2006) Review

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(More customer reviews)This is a great instructional video but it really can't be classified as a "burlesque workout". The movements demonstrated are informative for developing a routine but if you are looking for a workout, this probably won't be it, primarily due to the order of presentation. There is good information on costumes, stage personas, even picking a name - but the poor production quality lowered my rating to a 4. Get this if you want to develop a burlesque dance routine but look elsewhere for calorie burning.

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Princess Farhana will teach you to strut like a showgirl in the classic American Burlesque style. These retro-flavored dance steps are fun, lightly aerobic, easy-to-learn...and just a little bit naughty! Channel your inner glamour girl while burning calories and building poise, body confidence and self-acceptance. Director Augusta, a showgirl herself, also directed the critically acclaimed documentary The Velvet Hammer Burlesque. Featured on this DVD: clearly broken down burlesque dance technique and combinations, glittery stage finery on display, a costumed performance by Princess Farhana, plus plenty of bonus materialBONUS FEATURES: * A Brief History of Burlesque * Tassel Twirling with Miss Indigo Blue* Live Performance*Velvet Hammer Burlesque Preview

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Caribbean Workout: Core Pilates (2005) Review

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(More customer reviews)I recently picked up this program after really enjoying the previous Caribbean Pilates/Pilates Plus DVD's (which I've already reviewed on Amazon).
This set contains three twenty-two minute self contained workouts that were formerly on the Caribbean Workout Show. Being from a TV show there are commercial breaks which fade in and out, sometimes more smoothly than others. Still, in spite of a few rough spots in that regard, these programs are really some of my favorite Pilates based programs along w/ the Caribbean Pilates and Pilates Plus.
Their length makes them easy to fit in, the price is super low and you get a lot of workouts for that low price.
The first workout has a abs/back focus and it's very well sequenced. Jennifer Tilley, who leads the workouts w/ Shelley Mcdonald as the "student", alternates between Abs exercises and Back extension exercises. Jennifer Tilley has an interesting approach to varying the "classical" Pilates exercises as well as the way she sequences them. For me it works very well and keeps things fresh.
The second segment is a mix of Yoga type poses and Pilates exercises. It starts standing and then moves down to the mat. There's a nice mix of Ab core and back extension exercises as well a mini Sun Salute where you go from cobra into child's pose (she refers to these as up dog and down dog, but they are actually cobra and child's pose).
This segment is very much a blend of Yoga and Pilates, more so than any of the other Caribbean workouts that I have.
The third segment is primarily focused on the lower body and features a fairly extensive side lying series.
It starts w/ the hundred to warm up and then moves into the side lying position.
The one thing that I wanted to point out is that Jen Tilley first does 4 or so exercises on the right side, then switches to the left side and does the same exercises. BUT then what happens is that she continues on the left side and starting with the Développé on does a whole bunch more exercises and ends w/ small leg circles.
At that point after some gentle hip stretches, then she goes to the other side, starts with the Développé and then completes the leg series on the right side. The thing I don't like about this is that even though the same exercises are eventually done on both sides they are not done in a symmetrical order which means the left side is really maxed out by doing them all in a row while the right side gets to rest and then complete the series after the left side is done.
Fortunately, if one is aware of this and wants to make it symmetrical, what you can do is, switch back to the right side when she starts the Développé and then switch back to the left side when she does the Développé on the right side. In spite of that workable imperfection, this is an enjoyable and fun DVD to work with that definitely works the areas intended. I gave it five stars in spite of the few imperfections because overall I think it delivers what it promises and does so at a ridiculously low price!
I enjoy the personalities of the two teachers, the spontaneity of the way they interact and the scenery as always is beautiful. There is always nice gentle music during the Pilates sessions which enhances the overall atmosphere of the sessions.
If you are looking for a more "classical" Pilates approach I would highly recommend Hilary Burnett's Intermediate program. If you've never done Pilates before I would recommend Stott Basics program for excellent detailed instruction. I have heard great things about the Hilary Burnett Beginner program but unfortunately don't have that one.
Ana Caban has some nice beginning and intermediate programs as well which are based more on Joseph Pilates approach.

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Yoga Mommies: Mommy & Baby Yoga Review

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(More customer reviews)I had been looking for a DVD that would give me something to do with my extremely active 3 month old. Unfortunately, there is not much to choose from! Mutual activity was first, exercise was second. Yoga Mommies includes the child in the exercise but not as much as I would have liked. The majority of the exercises have your child just sitting on your lap, not participating.

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Yoga Mommies: Mommy & Baby Yoga is designed to help new Moms recover from pregnancy and the birthing process by strengthening the body, restoring the mind, heightening the spirit, and increasing the bond between mother and baby.By communicating through yoga, mothers can better understand baby’s needs and respond in ways which are soothing for both.Mothers gain strength, energy, and centeredness during the most profound transition of a woman’s life. Filmed in the beautiful Nevada desert, with Rebecca, Certified Yoga Instructor, and her son, Morgan.

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Crunch - Super SlimDown: Pilates Yoga Blend Review

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(More customer reviews)I was pleasantly surprised with this workout, it is invigorating and relaxing but you will feel it working too. Ellen Barrett, who is known for her Crunch and more recently Self magazine workouts is back in what I feel is her best workout ever. Ellen is joined by 7 other ladies including Marni who shows some beginner modifications.
This 40 minute workout begins with some power breathing and standing backbends before moving into the first yoga series. You will move into warrior 2 and pulse while in that position, therefore called the "warrior pulse", then you will move into side angle pose, then reverse warrior, and sweep your arms around and down to the center for some power breaths up before repeating on the other side. This series is repeated a few more times, but with less warrior pulses. More power breathing finishes this series.
The next series is somewhat similar, but you will begin in triangle pose this time. Once in triangle, you will move back to warrior 2 but twist to the front and raise the arms up, hold them before lowering and twisting back to the front. This is repeated several times on the same side before doing on the other side. Next is the zigzag, Ellen's favorite move which targets the core. You will face front and extended your arms from side to side then scoop down and do the same thing. Then you will repeat the triangle series on each side again followed by the zigzag once more. Then you will move to triangle once more before moving to plank pose then do some knee cross crunches. Then you will stretch out first in downward facing dog, then childs pose.
The next series is the willow series which is much harder than it looks. You will begin in childs pose, then lift up your torso up while trying not to lift your rear from your heels. I need to work on this one. You repeat this several times before moving to the dolphin float (elbow plank). The willow/dolphin series is then repeated several more times. Then you will do a variation of extended cat pose, you extend one arm and the opposite leg, and lift and lower each one, then you will extend them out to the side slightly and do the same, then you will alternate front and side. This is then repeated on the opposite arm/leg before stretching out in childs pose.
The next series starts on your front, you will first do leg beats, then a back extension, then a little piece of heaven which is a pushup on the knees, hinging back, then returning to start which your elbows are held inward. This really targets the triceps and I was definitely feeling it after a while. This series is repeated several times before finishing out with pilates leg circles. Then you will lie on your side for some more leg work. You will lift the bottom leg off the floor, then lift and lower the top leg, then you will lift and lower the bottom leg. The option of taking the supporting arm is there to make it tougher, side passe alternating the leg to the front and back follows. Then you will do the side bend twist, then the knee drop progression. Here you are propped up on your elbows and you will drop knees to each side while extending the top leg, then you have the option of straightening both legs while lowering to each side. Then you do a brief stretch before repeating the lying side leg series and side bend twist on the other side and do some more knee drops.
To finish out the workout, you will do some ab work. You will roll down and up halfway before going into modified teasers, then you will roll halfways down again while pulling the elbows together. Then you will move into the single leg stretch, some more oblique work where you drop your knees to each side and climb an imaginary rope and finally the ballerina criss cross. Then you will do some brief stretching and breathing.
While I am extremely active and aim to do weights, cardio, yoga and pilates each 3 times weekly, I do have to force it somedays. This is one workout that I truly look forward to doing. It is exhilarating and I feel great afterwards. It isn't hard, some experienced in yoga/pilates might feel it is way too easy but it is perfect for me and I have a blast doing it. This is Ellen at her best, she does an excellent job leading this workout. 5+ stars for this one.

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CRUNCH:SUPER SLIMDOWN - DVD Movie

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Total Body Cardio Toning Review

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(More customer reviews)I love this workout and can't wait to try the other DVDs in this series. It is a carto-strength training-yoga-pilates fusion, but no sun-salutes here, yeah! The instructor (Tanja Djelevic ) is not too chatty, but motivates to get you going. The music really is not disco, it is modern, upbeat, and wonderful. The setting is beautiful in the mountains of Utah. You get 50, 30, and 10 min workouts. In the 50, she'll start you with a fun warm-up; move on to challenging cardio, then weighted movements (with or without weights), pilates abs, and yoga/stretch cool down. The moves are easy to learn and perfectly paced. I'm not much of a pilates fan, but her moves were fun and just my speed. I have been looking for a challenging workout like this and I was in a sweat as time flew by. Tanja makes it so fun.
If you want good results, definitely get this DVD. I have also tried her new balance ball DVD and you can read my review...it's great too! I can't wait to try the other DVD's in this new series from Gaiam and will post reviews soon.

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No muscle will feel left out of this high-energy cardio workout. Fusing the best of yoga, Pilates and aerobic conditioning, Tanja Djelevic leads you through an intense but effective series of cardio and strength-building moves that target the entire body. Burn calories and melt fat while also achieving better posture, stability, core strength and overall toning. And best of all - it's FUN! With the mountains fo beautiful Sundance, Utah in the background, this workout not only invigorates the body, but elevates the spirit as well.

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Fat-Blasting Yoga Review

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(More customer reviews)This is a great video ! I honestly HATE working out, but I LOVE yoga. I already had a wonderful yoga video, but it was too long of a work out to fit into my schedule. I like the way this one is broken up into 3 short workouts. I like the way Denise keeps her moves simple, but effective. This video is EXCELLENT for your back. You feel pain free and thoroughly stretched after these workouts. I think Denise Austin is a sincerely sweet and motivating person. I recommend her videos to anyone who wants a realistic workout that you can stick with. As far as the stability ball, a large kids' ball works great.

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In this 60 minute workout, you’ll increase your heart rate and improve your circulation which aids in weigh loss and burning extra calories, as you flow through a series of classic yoga poses combined with an aerobic vinyasa. Plus by incorporating standing poses and core conditioning moves, you’ll reshape your entire body and experience increased flexibility, stamina and energy.

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Warrior Workout: Kundalini Yoga Review

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(More customer reviews)I love Ravi & Anna. They were the best introduction to yoga I've had. I have several of thier dvd's.

Although this workout is wonderful, it's freakin' HARD! If you are already a yoga guru it may not be so challangeing. However, if you are like me, overweight and trying to get in shape or new to yoga, this workout is a killer! Don't get me wrong, I love it. Just be prepared to sweat!
Side note*** This DVD uses more of the traditional poses like down dog than many of the other Singh and Brett dvd's that I have.

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***NOW WITH THE NEW DESIGN YOUR OWN WORKOUT MATRIX MENU OPTION***This comprehensiveDVD has helped to establish Ana Brett & Ravi Singh and their signature yoga style as the most exciting new trend in yoga and fitness.This DVD contains exercises for flexiblity, strength building, aerobic efficiency, detoxing, ab work, and much more: all with a through the roof fun factor! This amazingly effective workout features warm-ups, and a 45 min. yoga set with two segmets which can be done individually or together. Set one, Warrior Cardio, will help you aise your energy high! Set two features Warrior Cleanse, to take your health to a new level andkeep you supple, youthful and vital for life! Also included: breath primer, meditation, deep relaxation, and a great soundtrack. Discover why Ravi & Ana's client lists includes Madonna, Donna Karan, Gwyneth Paltrow, and the Red Hot Chile Peppers. This conveniently chaptered DVD, with the recently added Matrix gives you the option of designing your workout based on the time you have: pick and choose whichever segments you want to include in your workout and let them play in whatever order you'd like! This DVD has everything you need for high caliber fitness, peace of mind, and to give your life a total boost!

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YogaWorks for Everybody: Body Slim Review

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(More customer reviews)In addition to YogaWorks Beginners' AM/PM, and YogaWorks Fit Abs DVDs, YogaWorks has the BodySlim DVD whose focus is on weight loss. After trying out the other two DVDs, I was excited to work out to this DVD. This is an intense and challenging workout that increases body conditioning and strengthens the core. During the workout I could feel all of my muscles shaking and my heart rate going up. I like to challenge myself during this workout, but afterwards I feel so energized that it is all worth it. I am convinced that if I keep on working out to this DVD, I will continue to lose weight. I usually bring this DVD with me when I travel to help me maintain my workout routine and use it as an alternative to going to the gym.

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Get ready to look and feel fabulous! YOGAWORKS BODY SLIM is an active series of yoga postures that flow together to build long, lean muscles, improve your flexibility and make you drip with sweat. This powerful 2-in-1 practice will increase your energy while sculpting and strengthening your body. YOGAWORKS BODY SLIM (50 Min.) - Increase your upper-body and lower-body strength, improve your focus and balance, and raise your energy level.

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Keeping Fit in Your 50s 3-Pack (Aerobics / Strength / Flexibility) Review

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(More customer reviews)There are three DVDs in this set: Flexibility; Strength; and Aerobics. All of the exercises are taught by exercise physiologist Robyn Stuhr, and model Cindy Joseph joins in and provides occasional commentary on the exercises, e.g. "This feels really good," or "I can really feel this stretch." Cindy also demonstrates a yoga routine near the end of the Flexibility DVD, although it is a bit hard to follow because there is little narration, just directions printed on the screen as the two women go through the routine. I couldn't help but notice that when I'm in the 'down dog' position, it's difficult to read the directions on the screen. Someday soon, I'll just have to memorize the yoga segment.
I've been going through these DVDs for about a month now, one per morning, along with a couple of other exercise videos (a Pilates workout and a Tai Chi video) to round out the week, plus walking in the afternoon, and I've already begun to notice some improvements in my posture and flexibility. There are some deep bend knee exercises on the Strength and Aerobics DVDs that I can't do--when I was going through physical therapy for my knees, my therapist recommended against them--but Robyn Stuhr usually supplies an alternate exercise for those of us who have experienced problems with various joints. Keeping fit in my 50s is definitely different than it was in my twenties--no more jogging, for instance, and these DVDs take our changing bodies into account. Robyn even gives a brief introduction to Kegels during one of the strength routines.
Each DVD begins with an introduction, body basics, workout tips, and a section on 'know your muscles' before it gets into the core routines. Once you've watched these sections a few times, you will probably want to skip directly to the core routines via the menu. Each DVD closes with some upbeat, feel-good advice from Lisa Callahan, M.D., author of "The Fitness Factor," and Lillie Shockney, R.N., author of "Breast Cancer Survivors' Club."
Equipment needed: a stretchy Pilates body band; straight-backed chair; hand weights; and a thick book or step to stand on for two of the strength exercises. The exercises don't take up too much floor space, and I only have to move one easy chair out of the room in order to do all of the routines without banging into anything.
The "Flexibility" DVD runs for 81 minutes, with about 65% of the time spent in exercise.
The "Strength" DVD runs for 74 minutes, and the "Aerobics" DVD runs for 65 minutes with about the same percentage of exercise time versus the 'talking heads' segments.
The background music is soothing, in contrast to the whumpa-whumpa stuff found on many exercise tapes. The one minor annoyance other than the silent yoga routine was the occasional tricky camera angle. It's sometimes hard enough to position myself correctly for a particular exercise without having the camera cocking sideways for a shot of the beautiful Cindy, who didn't even start modeling until she was forty-nine. More power to her, but this is not a modeling session, so next time, keep the camera steady. Then the rest of us can figure out what she's doing without having to mentally rotate her position through a couple of dimensions!

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All you need to get fit, stay fit and feel better than ever Your 50s are a decade of change and opportunity. This total body workout system is designed to address your changing body’s unique needs. You’ll find effective and easy-to-follow workout routines, expert advice, and inspiring examples. Join top model Cindy Joseph and noted exercise physiologist Robyn Stuhr, whose enthusiasm and expertise will pave the way for you to make this your happiest, healthiest decade yet.
Program Features: -Insights into the major physical changes of the 50s -Exercise tips for achieving maximum results -30- to 40-minute core routines -Advanced/alternate routines -Keeping Fit Fundamentals, Q&A sessions with medical experts Lisa Callahan, M.D., author of The Fitness Factor, and Lillie Shockney, R.N., author of Breast Cancer Survivor’s Club
DVD BONUS FEATURES: include tips for creating a personal fitness plan, more Keeping Fit Fundamentals, suggestions for beginners, participant biographies and glossary of terms.
Cindy Joseph, one of today’s most popular print and television models, began her modeling career at age 49. She shares her enthusiasm for exercise and for the amazing potential of life in your 50s. Robyn Stuhr, administrative director of the Women’s Sports Medicine Center at New York’s Hospital for Special Surgery, is a certified exercise physiologist with 20 yars of experience in sports medicine.

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Fabulously Fit Moms: Total Body Workout Review

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(More customer reviews)Unlike the previous review, this review is for the actual workout dvd listed. My baby is ~8 months old, and while I have all but the last 10 lbs off(my body hangs onto the last 10 lbs after all 3 of my kids, until I'm done nursing them), I am always on the look-out for quick, no-nonsense workouts that are easy to follow along with, to fit into my busy days. I am happy to say, this one definitely fits the bill.
The workout contains a warm-up, 3 cardio-toning segments, a cool-down & stretches and is ~30 minutes in length. Recommended weights for this workout are 3-5 lbs weights. I would suggest 3 lbs for those who haven't used weights before or haven't used them in awhile and 5 lbs for those who are used to lifting weights. The first cardio/toning segment combines kickboxing cardio w/short segments of toning(ie. lower body exercises such as plies, squats, and lunges w/upper body using weights at the same time to get your heartrate up). The second segment combines Latin style dance cardio(think mambos, v-steps & hip flares) also combined w/similar upper & lower body toning. The last cardio segment is classic/athletic cardio w/toning. Very easy to follow along to, cueing is off in a couple spots but the moves are basic and not hard to get back on track. My heartrate really got up, and I was sweating so much by the end.
Jennifer Nicole Lee is living proof that it is possible to get back in shape after having kids. Very friendly personality, not too much chattiness, but funny at times(it's important to have fun). She says a few times about that we're making the most of our time and in the kickboxing segment she mentions that Rocky needs to watch out! lol This Fabulously Fit: Total Body Workout has made it to my must-have list & will never leave my house (and that's saying something for the huge vidiot i am).
you can find a 1 minute preview clip at collagevideo.com (do a title search)
There is also a bonus segment on the dvd (~10-12 minutes) that's part of her soon-to-be-released workout(next month) Fabulously Fit Moms: Lower Body Burn - Featuring Jennifer Nicole Lee. If the 10 minute clip(warm-up + standing work) is any indicator on how the rest of the workout is(my legs were jell-o), it'll be a must-have also.

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Tighten and tone from head to toe in as little as 30 minutes with Jennifer Nicole Lee's fat-burning and conditioning workout designed to provide the perfect balance of muscle and curves.

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Finding Your life's Purpose (2008) Review

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(More customer reviews)This DVD is very clear and practical. If you only watch or listen to one program by Eckhart Tolle, this is the one to get. Most human beings live in a virtual reality world of mental constructs, and they rarely experience the richness of this moment. They are continually looking for a purpose in the future, while missing their primary purpose: to fully experience What Is, in this moment. On this DVD, Eckhart discusses:
* The concept of Time. I've never heard it explained so clearly. There is no past and no future. All that we call "time" is a mental abstraction. We rush around wishing we had more time, and all we have is this moment. His discussion on Time brings the topic back to your purpose: to live your life in this moment (rather than wasting it living in mental abstraction).
* Achievement vs. Purpose. Eckhart travels the world speaking and teaching, and has certainly achieved far more than most people. His achievements and efforts have arisen out of the present moment awareness that he lives in. When your focus is on the end result, and in the process of achieving that result, you miss your real purpose (finding your sense of home, self and completeness in this moment), your achievements take on far less meaning. Let your motivation for achievement arise out of the completeness of being IN your purpose (as opposed to trying to complete yourself by achieving some purpose you made up in your head).
----
Contrary to the one-star reviewer of this DVD's opinion, Eckhart is not suggesting finding your purpose in sitting on the couch, eating & watching Oprah all day. But of course, Jesus never advocated many of the things that have been said and done in the name of Christianity either. Those who have ears to hear tend to hear, and the rest walk away with more mental constructs to add to their virtual selves.
This DVD isn't just for people looking for their first Eckhart Tolle experience. If you have been reading, listening to and watching Eckhart for years this DVD is well worth the investment.
Most people want to find their purpose because they are looking for completion, for fulfillment, and to be all they can be. This DVD will show you where to find that purpose. As to what you do, what you accomplish, what you achieve, etc... that's something else.
So here's the big question: If you are completely fulfilled, will you be motivated to do anything, or will you just sit around, eat and watch Oprah? Some people think you have to be unfulfilled in order to accomplish anything. They seem to think that all achievement arises out of unfulfillment. This philosophy turns you into a Human Doing; looking for that next achievement to complete your self. But you never get there. Human Beings find their purpose in Being. Out of that place of completion and fulfillment they achieve great things.
I wouldn't have taken the time to write this review, but I initially saw the one-star review and didn't want people to miss a great DVD for the wrong reasons.

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If you ve been searching in vain to find your true purpose in life, Echkhart Tolle has some straightforward advice: stop struggling. For the primary purpose of every human being is simply to be-fully engaged in this moment, aligned with the natural flow of reality itself. On Finding Your Life Purpose, the bestselling author of A New Earth invites viewers to discover the twofold intention of our human incarnation: first, to free yourself from thought-based reality and its inherent dissatisfaction; and, second, to express in your own way the grand vision that universal consciousness has for your life.

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Crunch - Pick Your Spot Pilates (2002) Review

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(More customer reviews)The beauty of the Pilates DVD workouts is that you can workout for 10-40 minutes or pick any section or sequence. I recommend doing the entire 40 minutes. This workout goes by so quickly. For some reason, time seems to fly by extra fast. I could not believe how fast each section went by.
There are four 10 minute workouts on this DVD, not just three. There is a Bonus 10-Minutes Total Body Pilates Workout which finally includes moves like the teaser and roll-ups which are essentials.
10 minutes Belly
10 minutes Butt
10 minutes Thighs
10 minutes Challenge
I like that this is 40 minutes, but I wish they would have included a longer warm-up and cool-down section. This routine needs some stretching moves at the end. I guess that is not the focus but I felt like I wanted to do stretching at the end.
The frog move was interesting and I've not see this in other videos. There is a nice flow to most of the movements although if you are used to doing the "side series" all at once, it is broken up between the Butt and Thigh workouts.
There is an exercise at the end of the challenge section that you can do more easily if you have a couch behind you for support. I discovered that today! I've never been able to do one of the exercises and finally did it today!!
I would not recommend this DVD for anyone with lower back problems. The exercises are done much faster than in Winsor Pilates or even Pilates on the Go. There is a great advantage in having a wide variety of workouts because then you can modify some of the exercises to suit your individual needs. Like, her version of the bicycle was much faster than I'm used to, so I just did my own thing and did less.
If you are new to Pilates, I'd recommend the Winsor Pilates and Pilates on the Go before you start this DVD because they don't really cover all the basics.
A fun edition to your routine as Ellen has some variations to regular Pilates moves you might enjoy.
~The Rebecca Review

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3 Targeted 10-Minute Workouts For Your: BELLY - BUTTTHIGHS. Welcome to CRUNCH Fitness! Change your body in 10 minutes? It is possible. Pick Your Spot Pilates targets your favorite body parts to train: the belly, butt and thighs, with three l0-minute workouts. We've made every minute count with classic Pilates mat exercises to tone, firm, and re-shape your body. Gentle yet challenging, and easy-to-follow, Pilates focuses on precise breathing techniques to get in touch with your body's core so you can sculpt without bulk, creating sleek abs, leaner legs, and a bikini butt. Do one program at a time or all three in a row. These mini- workouts are completely self-contained including a warm- up, a fabulous workout, and cool-down all in 10 minutes! If you're time-crunched and need to squeeze in your workouts, this program is for you. You'll be surprised how many l0-minute spots you can find in your day! For all fitness levels. A mat or rug and bare feet are highly recommended. The CRUNCH Philosophy: The CRUNCH fitness program welcomes people from all walks of life regardless of shape, size or ability. We created a workout environment that is not competi-tive or judgmental. Enjoy these favorite classes with imaginative instructors in an atmosphere that makes working out fun. Meet the instructor: Ellen Barrett, Los Angeles. Certified Pilates and fitness instructor. Fitness philosophy: Fitness should lead to health, not only beauty; no matter what size you are, or what age you are, a healthy body IS beautiful. Favorite binge food: I'm a peanut butter nut. If you have any questions or comments about Pick Your Spot Pilates write to: Fitness@anchorbayentertainment.com Please consult your physician before beginning this or any other exercise program.Amazon.com description

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Viniyoga Therapy for the Upper Back, Neck & Shoulders with Gary Kraftsow (2009) Review

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(More customer reviews)Because I sit at a computer all day, I struggle with neck and shoulder issues. Now that I've picked up my weight training routine again, those issues are only being amplified. Happily, I have this DVD in my therapy stockpile. It's the only DVD I've tried which addresses neck and shoulder issues exclusively.
I like the fact that this DVD offers slow-moving yoga postures rather than sun salutations ad nauseum. While this is definitely a yoga dvd, the routines are more along the line of gentle stretching than a fast-moving "flow" practice. However, don't equate "gentle" with "ineffective." Hardly!!! This is the * most * effective neck and shoulder DVD I've done so far. I tried another, far more strenuous neck and shoulder yoga "workout" DVD which did not address the neck and shoulder area nearly as well as this gentle Viniyoga Therapy DVD. This DVD relaxes, loosens and strengthens the neck and shoulder area like no other yoga/stretch DVD I own. The fact that there are three 20 to 38-minute routines to choose from, that it is very effective, and that it has absolutely no "dread" factor for me, gives me the feeling that this DVD is going to be one of my most-used, "valuable player" workout DVDs of the year.... This DVD is appropriate for all levels: beginners, intermediates, advanced. However, understand that this is strictly a "therapeutic" yoga DVD addressing neck and shoulder issues. If you are looking for a traditional yoga workout with downward facing dog, etc., you are going to be disappointed.
Voiceover instruction with someone demonstrating the postures, so there's nothing sexy here, but the production values were very good. The best thing I've found so far for my neck and shoulder issues outside of Jeff Primack's qigong DVD.

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Viniyoga Therapy for the Upper Back, Neck and Shoulders features short, simple therapeutic yoga practices carefully designed to alleviate pain and promote health in the upper back, neck and shoulders. For the first time ever on DVD, benefit from the expert guidance of Gary Kraftsow, one of the world's leading yoga therapists. Founder of the American Viniyoga Institute, Gary is the designer of the only yoga practices demonstrated to be effective for back pain in a National Institutes of Health-sponsored clinical study. If you are one of the 8 out of 10 Americans who have or will experience back pain, make the powerful therapeutic practices on this DVD a part of your everyday regimen for health and well-being!Highlights from this DVD include:Presentation on Understanding Back Pain and the application of yoga therapy.Technique Workshop on how to safely perform postures and movements.Focused practice for Upper Back and Neck Therapy.Focused practice for Neck and Shoulder Therapy.Integrated practice for sustained upper back Strength and Stability.Bonus MP3s of all practices for audio-only classes at home or on the go.

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Viniyoga Therapy for the Low Back, Sacrum & Hips with Gary Kraftsow (2009) Review

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(More customer reviews)This DVD focuses on issues of the lower body, specifically the lower back, hips, and sacrum (the other DVD in this series focuses on the upper body). It differs from other yoga media offerings in that it contains a strong educational component in addition to the practice element. Also, the practices offered on the DVD are designed for rehabilitation and strengthening, and thus they are more similar in feel to a physical therapy session than to a yoga class.
The main menu of this DVD consists of four separate segments: 1) Understanding Back Pain, 2) Technique Workshop, 3) Therapeutic Practices, and 4) Special Features. The Technique Workshop provides the opportunity to study individual postures in greater depth. The Viniyoga Therapeutic Practices offer three complete practice segments tailored to meet different needs as described below. (Note: the DVD also provides bonus MP3 audio versions of each practice.)
1.Lower Back Therapy (23 minutes). Gary recommends that you begin here, as this is the most gentle practice. The postures are performed entirely on the floor and provide very mild stretching of the lower back area.
2.Hip Therapy (31 minutes). This practice, while still gentle and centered on floor postures, focuses more on the hips. Unlike more traditional hip-opening sequences found in other yoga practices, the goal here is to stretch the hips from four perspectives (front, back, and each side).
3.Strength and Stability (32 minutes). This practice is the only one on the DVD to contain standing postures, and thus the intensity level is slightly higher than the other two. Gary notes that it is designed to build long-term health and fitness in the low back, sacrum, and hips.
The practices feature a single student working on a mat against a rather sparse white set, with Gary providing instruction via voiceover. Most people are likely to find the practices rather dry--Gary's voice is a big monotone and repetitive, and there's little "fun factor" here. However, these are therapeutic in nature, and as such, they are quite effective. Although I personally didn't get much out of the first two practices--mainly because the low back and hips aren't a problem area for me--I was pleasantly surprised by the third, as it nicely stretched out not only my lower back but also my upper back, shoulders, and entire torso. This DVD would be useful for virtually anyone who is at risk for lower back issues, from those who work at physical labor to those with more chronic conditions. I definitely recommend Viniyoga Therapy for Lower Back, Hips, and Sacrum as an excellent tool for alleviating pain and promoting health in the entire lower back area.

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Viniyoga Therapy for the Low Back, Sacrum and Hips features short, simple therapeutic yoga practices carefully designed to alleviate pain and promote health in the low back, sacrum and hips. For the first time ever on DVD, benefit from the expert guidance of Gary Kraftsow, one of the world's leading yoga therapists. Founder of the American Viniyoga Institute, Gary is the designer of the only yoga practices demonstrated to be effective for back pain in a National Institutes of Health-sponsored clinical study. If you are one of the 8 out of 10 Americans who have or will experience back pain, make the powerful therapeutic practices on this DVD a part of your everyday regimen for health and well-being! Highlights from this DVD include:Presentation on Understanding Back Pain and the application of yoga therapy.Technique Workshop on how to safely perform postures and movements.Focused practice for Low Back and Sacrum Therapy.Focused practice for Hip Therapy.Integrated practice for sustained low back Strength and Stability.Bonus MP3s of all practices for audio-only classes at home or on the go.

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Body By Bethenny with Bethenny Frankel Review

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(More customer reviews)Even though I am a fan of the series, as well as a fan of Bethenny, I always go into a purchase with reservations, but I was hearing good things about the program and I decided to buy this.
The DVD has a lot on it. The total work out length of her progam is just under an hour, and the instruction is led by Kristin McGee, with Bethenny following along with interjections and her dry wit here and there.
In the yoga segment which is about 40 minutes, the poses are explained with nice detail, and modifications are given when needed, and even a tip here and there if you are feeling abititious. The setting looks like a loft apartment and the music is just a new age style, typical for this kind of workout.
On occassion there will be a flash of words...a word bite if you will, that will tell you the benefit of what you are doing.I have several yoga dvds, and I do enjoy this instuctor quite a bit, just for the fact of her details during the instruction, and her giving you information in down to earth manner. She is very encouraging, and is always looking at yoga as an experience. The second part is a series of weights. Its about ten minutes in length. This is also taught by Kristen, and it's pretty basic exercises, but I think again it's solid instruction on how to do them and correct form. I think it could be a bit longer, but if you feel ambitious, you can always play it twice. I think keeping it at ten is good for someone that doesn't have a lot of time but you still want to do something. The third is called the booty bonus. Its very short, roughly about 5 minutes, but taught by Kristen with the same informative instruction. This doesn't require any weight so you can do these anywhere. There are a couple of bonus footage pieces. There's a cooking segment and it gives the instruction of skinnygirl spinach artichoke dip. There's also two workout segments. They are called Pilates for Beginners and Exhale: Core Fusion Pure Abs and Arms. They are brief, but you can always incorporate those pieces into the workout as well, or do them separately.Overall, I really like this DVD. Since it just came out today, I can't speak of the long term results just yet. I can say that given my experience with yoga videos I can assure you it's complete workout. Challenging but not so intimidating that a beginner would feel defeated. That to me is very important as if you feel that way you will not want to do it again. Anyway, please do give this program a try. You will not be dissappointed!Update: I have done this video all this week since getting it. Again I can't speak of the long term results just yet, so I am going to tell you how I am feeling currently.
I am pleased to say each time I do this DVD I enjoy it more and more. Even with the more challenging poses, I am finding myself having more strength each time to complete them and I will have to say there a sense of pride when I do that.
I am sore all over, particularly in the thighs butt lower abs and shoulders...and that's a good thing.
Anyway, just wanted to give that feedback. Will provide more in several weeks and hopfully by then I will be able to give you my results. :-)Update #2 I am still loving this DVD. I think it's because it is so challenging. so I am not bored by any means.
I am getting better with the moves, and Bethenny is spot on when she says with balance, some days are better than others and that's so true for me.
I am glad she made it this level, otherwise I know I would tire of it easily and toss it aside. That won't happen with this DVD, that's for sure!

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"People keep asking me how I get in shape, and this is what I do." --Bethenny Frankel

Unleash your best body as you work out with Bethenny Frankel, celebrated natural food chef, TV star, and New York Times bestselling author of Naturally Thin and The Skinnygirl Dish.

Bethenny keeps her slim figure with simple, realistic exercise routines like this one. Celebrity instructor Kristin McGee joins Bethenny for a 40-minute yoga program that stretches and strengthens the entire body. You’ll get toned abs, thighs, glutes, and arms while increasing flexibility and balance. Follow it up with a focused, 10-minute strength-training segment to sculpt lean muscles and increase your metabolism. Then finish off with the 5-minute Booty Blast to learn fun moves you can do anywhere for a tight, firm behind.

Bethenny champions a down-to-earth approach to exercise that fits your lifestyle. No matter your size, shape, or fitness level, this program will work for you. You are a true "skinnygirl" when you feel your healthiest, so trust yourself, enjoy yourself, and make Bethenny’s workout your own.

Equipment needed: light hand weights and a mat

A certified personal trainer, Pilates master, and yoga instructor, Kristin McGee has worked with numerous celebrity clients and starred in several bestselling exercise DVDs.

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Mandy Ingber's Yogalosophy Workout DVD Review

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(More customer reviews)When I saw that Jennifer Aniston's yoga instructor was putting out a DVD I couldn't wait to purchase it - who doesn't want to look like Jennifer Aniston? I have been doing yoga regularly, both at home and with an instructor for about 6 years and am always looking for new yoga workouts. What a disappointment this DVD is!
First, the cover promises 2 complete 30-minute workouts and one longer 55 minute workout. What it doesn't tell you is that the 2 30- minute workouts are identical except that one provides instruction and the other does not. In addition, the longer workout is just the same 30-minute workout with a more traditional sun-salute series stuck onto the beginning.
The 30 minute workouts are really not yoga at all - I felt like I was back in my college dorm room doing Jane Fonda! The sun salute series is impossible to follow unless you are actually looking at the screen which is obviously not practical. Also, the workout is very disjointed - there is a lot of standing around while Mandy explains what's coming up. There is absolutely no flow.
I guess if I'm going to look like Jennifer, I'm going to have to do it alone!

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Celebrated yoga and fitness instructor Mandy Ingber offers an all-new, unique program that will sculpt sleek muscles and unwind your mind. Yogalosophy, a groundbreaking workout from superstar celebrity yoga instructor, promotes weight loss and getting into shape with an easy-to-follow but challenging routine. The program includes two versions of a 30-Minute Routine and a Fully-Loaded, 55-Minute Challenge. Available for the first time ever on DVD, this hybrid workout pairs yoga poses with toning exercises that will get you into the best shape of your life while connecting your mind, body, and emotions. Believe. Feel. Become.

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