Yoga 'rific

Yes, classes are more crowded now, but the good thing about yoga's surge in popularity is that it has spawned some pretty cool stuff. Here's a sampling:

MUSIC Mark Biehl's Asana Sangit: Music for Yoga and Rejuvenation (Acuity Soundworks, 2003) has long, ethereal tracks designed to start you out in a meditative state, help you reach peak intensity, then flow back into peaceful tranquility ($14.99; 800-487-3757 or ww.acuitysoundworks.com).

BOOK 40 Days to Personal Revolution: A Breakthrough Program to Radically Change Your Body and Awaken Your Soul by Baron Baptiste (Simon and Schuster, 2004) is a progression of six separate week-long programs that include postures, diet and meditation tips ($27).

WORKOUTS Tom McCook mixes it up with Combining Pilates and Yoga for Balance (Center of Balance, 2003), which begins with Pilates exercises to build core strength and moves into yoga postures to build on the breath and increase flexibility. There's a basics section at the beginning that gives detailed instructions, but if you're experienced you can go straight to the 45-minute Flow workout (VHS/DVD, $19.95; www.centerof balance.com). Yogalates: The Breakthrough Workout that Combines the Best of Yoga and Pilates by Louise Solomon (Sterling Publishing, 2003) is a mix of gentle yoga stretches and strengthening Pilates moves with an emphasis on abs, butt and thighs. It's beautifully photographed and has color-coded pages for ease in targeting specific body parts ($ 17.95; 800-805-5489 or www.sterlingpub.com).

COPYRIGHT 2004 Weider Publications
COPYRIGHT 2004 Gale Group