Barbara Currie - 7 Secrets of Yoga [DVD]

With the slinky white leotards, the pastel set and the references to toning and firming, yoga purists might be quick to dismiss Barbara Currie’s Seven Secrets of Yoga as yoga for middle England. Yet Barbara Currie is the Delia Smith of the yoga world--it’s not just that what she does works, but she knows exactly how to make it work for the rest of us.

Though the title implies that this is a session divided into seven segments, there are in fact more than seven parts: a choice of two 10-minute miracles (beginners and advanced) recommended to start the day, followed by a series of six short sequences designed to work either as a sequence a day, or together in an entire, comprehensive session. Currie’s precise instruction covers balancing the body and mind, working the lower back and toning bottom and thighs, toning the tummy and waist, working the arms and neckline, stretching the entire body and relaxing.

Though the focus appears to be toning up, the real surprise is at the end when Currie cleverly reveals the seven secrets: yoga is good for shape, weight, energy, relaxation, concentration, flexibility and youth. This is a succinct and inspiring explanation of the philosophy of yoga.--Lorna V