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Post by Karla on Dec 23, 2023 0:18:28 GMT
Yoga Journal Yoga for Total Back Care
Annie Carpenter
Year Released: 2010
NOTE: I received a free copy of this DVD from Yoga Journal to review.
This new DVD release from Yoga Journal features yoga instructor Annie Carpenter, who states in her included 6-minute interview that she teaches what she calls "Smart Flow" yoga. Carpenter teaches live in a large, airy studio, where she leads two models (yoga teachers themselves) through the two 45-minute practices on this DVD. (Carpenter herself does not participate in the practices; this style of teaching is very similar to what is seen on the Stott Pilates DVDs, and in fact Carpenter's entire demeanor reminded me significantly of Moira Stott.) The Main Menu of the DVD offers the following options: Lower Body (45 minutes), Upper Body, Neck, & Shoulders (45 minutes), Interviews (with Teacher and Models), and Play All (Sequences 1 and 2).
In introducing each of the two practices, Carpenter explains that she will be offering postures focused on both stretching and strengthening to help undo the effects poor posture, misalignments, etc. and to serve a preventative function for the future. You will need a mat, strap, two blocks, and a blanket for these practices.
For the Lower Body practice, Carpenter has the participants start on their backs in a half savasana position. She spends some time focusing on the breath, combining this with establishing a natural arch in the lower back. She encourages you to continue to maintain this arch as you use a strap for reclined leg stretch. While still on their backs, she then has the participants perform a more challenging abs-strengthening move, holding one leg straight up while the other hovers just off the floor. Then it's on to hands and knees for a single cat/cow and a few repetitions of bird/dog before moving through down dog, coming to standing, and beginning lunge salutes. (During the lunge series, Carpenter makes an error and repeats the twisted lunge an extra time to the one side only.) The final standing sequence is a wide-legged forward bend performed with blocks under the hands, adding a twist. Coming back to a supine position, Carpenter has the models place a block between their thighs for bridge pose, adding a one-legged bridge. There are two lying twists before Carpenter concludes the practice with a short (2-minute) savasana.
For the Upper Body practice, Carpenter again has the models begin in half savasana. From this position, they perform neck rolls (first with the arms by the sides, then spread out in a "T") as well as an arm stretch with the block in the hands and moving the arms overhead. Next, several rounds of cat/cow are performed on hands and knees. From here, Carpenter transitions the models through down dog to standing at the front of the mat, where she leads them through sun breaths, emphasizing the stretch in the arms. Two standing postures follow. The first is Warrior 2: Carpenter sets up the pose, then has the participants repeat, adding in a neck stretch. The second standing posture is extended side angle; here, Carpenter instructs a little vinyasa in which the models repeatedly come in and out of this pose. After moving through down dog and plank to return to the floor, side plank is performed with an optional modification. Then, Carpenter has the participants come prone for several locust variations. Carpenter closes with seated postures, including cow-face arms (using a strap), eagle arms, and a simple seated twist; she ends with a 1 1/2 minute savasana.
Both of these practices were decent overall, but they did not provide the soothing, tension-relieving function that I had expected. On the one hand, I could see how regular use of these practices could be beneficial in maintaining a healthy back. On the other, however, I did not feel significantly stretched in the target areas (i.e., upper back and lower back), and I'm not sure that users who are already experiencing difficulties (including tension and/or pain) would be likely to find relief here. In fact, I have chronic upper back and shoulder tightness myself, and I did not achieve nearly the same relaxation results with this video as I have had with other yoga DVDs targeted to this area (e.g., Yoga to the Rescue for Neck & Shoulders and Yoga: Relief from Neck and Shoulder Pain).
Still, I would have recommended this DVD for ongoing prevention purposes if it were not for one major problem: the music. I have to agree with the first reviewer on this one; the flute music is WAY too loud. Although I didn't have any problems hearing Carpenter's instruction, the music was as loud as her voice, which I found to be a distraction--and, over time, an annoyance. I rarely take issue with the music on fitness DVDs, but it was SUCH an irritation here that it affected by overall view of the practices, which is a shame.
Instructor Comments:
Like the workout itself, I thought Annie Carpenter's instruction was just okay. First of all, she doesn't mirror cue--how hard is it to mirror cue when you are moving around adjusting others and not doing the poses yourself? Secondly, she has a bit of a quirky/annoying habit: when she makes a suggestion to one of the models (e.g., move your shoulders down) and then they do it, she will say "yay!", which just sounded rather juvenile to me. Finally, I don't think Carpenter is really in tune with her audience--i.e., who are these practices for? She gives detailed instruction at times (and one of the background exercisers offers some modifications), so you might think that they are appropriate for beginners, yet I'm an intermediate and I felt challenged a few times, including during the abs work and the side angle vinyasa. Therefore, I don't think she presents a consistent level of practice throughout this DVD.
Beth C (aka toaster)
02/13/2011
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Post by Karla on Dec 23, 2023 0:19:22 GMT
The Elaine Petrone Method - Stop the Clock
Elaine Petrone
Year Released: 2007
I have owned the The Miracle Ball Method balls and small instructional booklet for some time now, as I am a big fan of self-therapy and self-massage work. However, I have a much harder time following routines from a book, and so I rarely used the balls the "official" way outlined by Elaine Petrone in her book. I had been interested in obtaining one of her videos for years, and I finally had the opportunity to do so upon stumbling across it at a used book sale.
The Main Menu of this DVD offers options for Play Program - Program Index - Elaine's Story - Biography. The Program Index begins with a brief introduction by Petrone in which she explains that she came to this method after being injured as a dancer and searching for alternative methods of healing when traditional medicine failed her. She further emphasizes that the Miracle Ball Method involves doing LESS--i.e., it is neither exercising nor stretching. I've described the remaining three chapters of the Program below.
BODY FORMULA (12 minutes)
Here Petrone works with two background exercisers, Greg and Sylvia, introducing the use of breathing techniques to reduce stress. Petrone explains that the balls help increase flexibility by giving into gravity, but first, she has Greg and Sylvia start seated without using the balls. They begin with a simple observation exercise (eyes closed), then move on to exhaling making an "hhh" sound. Next is turning the next to the side (tighter side first) and hanging the head forward, then handing the whole body forward; repeat on the second side. The last exercise is reaching the arms up and turning the neck and shoulders.
ON THE BALL (28 minutes)
Petrone states that this segment will help to fight three signs of premature aging: 1) a rounded upper back, 2) a protruding lower belly, and 3) loss of muscle tone. Again, she works with Greg and Sylvia, who are now lying on elevated platforms with their balls accessible (only one ball is used). The first movement is elbow on the ball, in which one elbow (tight side first) is placed at a right angle on the ball. Petrone states that this mainly helps release the neck and shoulders but also the low back as well. She encourages participants to find the spot that is right for them. This is performed a total of three times of the tight side, and before moving to the second side, Petrone has Greg and Sylvia place the ball under their necks. Removing the ball, the head is moved from side-to-side, and then elbow under ball is performed on the second side. Petrone continually reminds the participants to breathe with a "sss" or "hhh" sound so that they do not hold the breath. The final move in this sequence is the ball under the pelvis; this is supposed to allow the belly to flatten.
FULL BODY MOVES (6 minutes)
In this section, Greg and Sylvia return to seated, and the balls are not used. Petrone further explains how this method involves "stretching without stretching." She encourages participants to take note of any changes in their bodies. They conclude by hanging forward in both sitting and standing positions.
In addition to the above, this DVD includes an interview with Petrone in which she describes her leg injury and how that led to the Elaine Petrone Method in greater detail, and there is also an on-screen Biography providing similar information about the background of her method.
I definitely think that there is value to the Miracle Ball Method. The focus on breathing and body awareness is an excellent means to foster increased relaxation, both mental and physical. Despite this, the DVD was rather disappointing. A brief separate tutorial could have been included on the breathing methods used in the routine. The On the Ball segment, while lengthy, was repetitive, covering only a few moves with the ball. I think that most viewers would appreciate a more comprehensive DVD which served more as a companion to the original Miracle Method book.
Instructor Comments:
I think Elaine has a great personal story. Her personality is very low-key as well, and she provides good tips and instruction here (she teaches but does not do the moves herself). However, the DVD winds up feeling much more instructional than something that can be used follow-along; there is A LOT of talking that I think would really feel cumbersome upon repeated viewings.
Beth C (aka toaster)
05/26/2015
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Post by Karla on Dec 23, 2023 0:20:03 GMT
Yoga Relief from Neck and Shoulder Pain
Lillah Schwartz
Year Released: 2003
NOTE: I received a free review copy of this DVD from the web site metapsychology.net.
This DVD is presented by Iyengar yoga instructor Lillah Schwartz and produced by her studio, Lighten Up Yoga and Healing Arts. It is designed to provide a self-help approach to relieving neck and shoulder pain through strengthening and improving posture. In the 40-minute instructional segment, Schwartz takes the viewer through twelve basic, therapeutic yoga poses, placing a strong emphasis on form and alignment, pointing out common mistakes, and offering modifications to use if needed. Then, she provides a 20-minute practice sequence which allows the user to move through postures in a more flowing session with less instruction.
The Main Menu of the DVD includes options for Play All, Chapter Selection, and 20 Minute Practice Sequence. The chapters of the instructional segment are as follows:
*Introduction
*The Basic Twist
*Yogi Curl Ups
*Neck Toners
*Fish Pose
*Fish Pose – Wall
*Cat Cow Pose
*Full Down Face Dog
*Dog Prep
*Down Dog to Lunges
*Elbows on Chair
*Proper Sitting Posture
*Eagle Pose Protraction & Retraction
*Cows Head Pose
*Chair Twist
*Door Chest Hang
*Savasana – Corpse Pose
*Conclusion
Schwartz incorporates several props into the practice, including two blankets, a block, a strap, and a chair. Also, as you can see from the descriptions above, she uses a wall to modify several of the postures. Both the tutorial and the practice are taught by Schwartz alone in an outdoor setting with soft music playing in the background. Although Schwartz’s instructions are given via voiceover, during the tutorial segment, she provides brief live introductions at the start of each chapter/pose.
I am someone who seems to have chronic tightness in the upper back, shoulders, and neck—perhaps due to having a job that requires me to sit all day, possibly because I also spend 1 ½ hours in the car five days a week to get to and from that job. Whatever the reason, I have been to physical therapy as well as have tried all kinds of therapeutic yoga practices which target this area, and I’ve definitely found a new favorite in Yoga: Relief for Neck and Shoulder Pain. The simple sequence of postures is extremely well done, going from very gentle stretches such as the reclined twist to more active one like the door chest hang and eagle arms (why doesn’t every yoga DVD for neck and shoulders include this pose?). Also, the 20-minute practice length makes this session short enough to be conveniently performed on a regular basis—Schwartz recommends daily until you attain relief and then every other day for maintenance (she also suggests reviewing the instructional portion monthly to refresh your technique). The only (minor) negative that I have to note is that the DVD case states “A Convenient Travel Pamphlet Included”; unfortunately, this item was missing from my package.
In summary, I would highly recommend this DVD to address mild tightness, pain, and discomfort issues throughout the entire upper back, shoulders, and neck. For comparison sake, I would rate the intensity level as a bit more active than the Neck and Shoulder practices included on Barbara Benagh’s Yoga for Stress Relief, but less energetic than the latest release from Anusara yoga instructor Desirée Rumbaugh, Yoga to the Rescue for Neck & Shoulders.
Instructor Comments:
Lillah was quite pleasant; she seemed down-to-earth, and she instructed well.
Beth C (aka toaster)
08/15/2009
The DVD has 40 minutes of yoga instruction followed by a 20 minute yoga practice which focuses on the neck and shoulders. Each pose has it's own chapter. The 20 minute practice also is a separate chapter. Props used are blankets, a strap, a block, a rolled up mat, a doorway, a wall, and a chair. During the instruction segment Lillah explains common mistakes for each pose. I found that very helpful. The poses are:
Jathara parivatanasana(Supine twist)
Yogi curl ups
Neck Toners
Matsyasana prep(Fish pose prep)
Cat/Cow pose
Adho mukha svanasana (Downward Dog)
Lunges
Elbows on chair
Garudasana (Eagle) - arms only
Gomukhasana (Cow Face pose) - arms only
Bharadvajasana (Seated twist) - in a chair
Purvottanasana (Doorway chest hang)
Savasana
The DVD is filmed outside and you can see lots of pretty Fall foliage. It also comes with a booklet with three different sequences and instructions. It didn't have any music. I think I may have heard a bird. The scenery reminded me of some Classical Stretch episodes. Also, it is just the instructor alone, no class.
I really liked Lillah, her instruction, and the sequence of asanas. My neck and upper back felt good afterwards and I had a lot of opening in my chest and armpit area.
Instructor Comments:
Lillah Schwartz is an Iyengar teacher in Asheville, NC. She has been studying Iyengar yoga for over 25 years and her experience comes across in her teaching.
Dani
04/09/2006
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Post by Karla on Dec 23, 2023 0:20:38 GMT
Yoga to the Rescue for Back Pain
Desirée Rumbaugh
Year Released: 2008
Run Time: Approximately 1 hour
Chapters:
1. Standing in Alignment
2. Tip: Standing in Alignment
3. Standing-Feet In & Out
4. Standing-Block & Blanket
5. Standing-Sacrum Adjustment
6. Inward Spiral
7. Chair Pose
8. Cat & Cow
9. Tip: Cat & Cow, right/wrong way
10. Downward Facing Dog
11. Tip: Down Dog, right/wrong way
12. Sphinx & Cobra Pose
Desiree offers detailed instructions of yoga exercises that will help to relieve pain, prevent pain & help individuals remain free of back pain. Her companion in the workout, Andrew Rivin, offers even easier modifications.
This is not a flowing yoga practice but a unique demonstrative therapeutic yoga lesson. Following this dvd will allow the participant to gain the knowledge to alleviate their own back issues. (plus learning proper alignment & techniques will continue to benefit them in their everyday lives)
In each chapter, Desiree clearly explains the pose and offers tips of the "right & wrong" way to perform the move. Then she'll work through the pose, enhancing the benefits.
Instructor Comments:
DeniseR
03/22/2008
NOTE: I received this DVD as a free review copy from the web site metapscyhology.net.
In this DVD, Anusara-trained yoga instructor Desirée Rumbaugh offers a yoga practice designed to ease pressure and tightness in the back, improve posture, and increase strength and flexibility to the core of the body. She works with another Anusara teacher, Andrew Riven, who provides modifications and alternatives; for some of the postures, a block or blanket is used. The Main Menu of the DVD is as follows: Introduction (brief overview by Desirée) - Play Workout - Chapter Index – Biography - Music Options (Music Only or Music + Instruction) - Also from Acacia (trailers of other workouts).
Oddly, the chapter menu presents only the first 12 chapters of the practice; there are actually an additional 24 chapters, for a total of 36. Desirée mostly leads the workout using voiceover instruction, although she breaks in live at times to provide more specific tips. The first six chapters (about 8 minutes) focus mainly on the fundamentals of good standing posture. Desirée explains how to stand in alignment, to correctly position the feet, and to engage both the sacrum and an inward spiral of the thighs, all concepts central to Anusara. She then moves through a series of basic standing postures to warm up the back, including chair pose, cat/cow, downward dog, spinx/cobra, and locust. The lower back in particular is targeted through several lunge variations as well as a seated twist. Because weak abdominal muscles can contribute to lower back problems, Desirée also works on strengthening the abdominal core through exercises performed in a reclined position such as crunches, leg lifts, and pendulum; this section was fairly challenging, especially the pendulum move, which Desirée moved through at quite a fast pace.
Next, Desirée returns to some additional backbending postures, upping the intensity level with bow, camel, and bridge. Following this, the practice begins to wind down through a series of stretches, including lying hamstring stretch, outer hip stretch, and windshield wipers. Desirée offers some final postural tips in the reclined position, as she provides instruction on preserving the lumbar curve as well as presents the use of lying over a blanket to restore proper alignment. The practice concludes with a savasana (relaxation) that is just under four minutes long, bringing in the total time at approximately 65.5. minutes.
Although video this is presented as a complete yoga practice, the mixture of independent short chapters (most are around 2 minutes in length), interruptions for live instruction, occasional lack of parity between voiceover and onscreen demonstrations, and brief “Tip” segments which show the right versus wrong way to perform some of the postures all contributed to an overall choppy feel. The information presented here is certainly valuable, but the stop-and-go nature made it feel more like a physical therapy session or yoga workshop than an actual yoga practice. Given this, I think it would be difficult to use the DVD on a regular basis unless you were to have your remote handy in order to skip over the instructional statements, which are sure to become increasingly repetitious over time. Finally, the DVD case recommends this practice “For Beginners & beyond,” but personally, I would limit the audience to those with some prior familiarity with yoga. If you are looking for some specific tips and strategies to address back pain, you might find this DVD useful, but you won’t find a flowing practice experience here.
Instructor Comments:
Despite my problems with this DVD, I did like Desirée as an instructor; she seemed quite warm and genuine. If she were to put out a more flowing Anusara practice, I would be very interested.
Beth C (aka toaster)
03/05/2008
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Post by Karla on Dec 23, 2023 0:21:18 GMT
Yoga Tune Up: Quick Fix Rx KneeHab
Jill Miller
Year Released: 2011
I’m reviewing “KneeHab 2” and “KneeHow” led by Jill Miller from the QuickFix Rx Knee Hab DVD. “KneeHab 2” contains more dynamic exercises than KneeHab 1 (but does include a few static stretches), and the chair is used more for stability (place a hand, leg or elbows) than fully seated exercises (like in KneeHab 1). It’s a great segment, I feel really good (but worked) afterwards, and many exercises open up the hips (nice bonus for me, tend to have tight hips). “KneeHow” is definitely more challenging than previous segments, it incorporates more progressions of previous stretches & some new ones, single leg exercises (requiring balance & strength, don’t use chair for support), and squat variations (previous did not have any). I like to use the Prehab segment before or after completing one of these. Instruction is excellent in both segments, as well the exercises sequenced in the workouts (they all offer something a bit different). I did not mention this in the previous review, but Jill does demo all exercises w/ bare feet (and the set has a wood floor).
KneeHab 2 (14:54 min.): uses chair (& optional yoga strap). Mostly 4-6 reps per exercise or side (one has 20 reps), or 30-60 seconds per exercise.
Rolling feet see saws (plantar & dorsi flexion): start standing, one hand is on chair for support> start w/ soles of feet on floor> roll feet from ball of feet to flexed position (only heels on floor), reverse motion.
Wobbly cowboys (ankle inversion, eversion): face side of chair, place elbows on chair, w/ bent knees & flat back> knees open & close w/ rolling onto outside & inside of feet (ankles drive movement, not knees).
Hip hinge: from previous position> bent leg lift (glute kickback) & reverse motion (lower knee to chest).
Easy runner’s lunge: face side of chair, place one foot on top of chair (knee directly over /in line w/ ankle or a bit behind it), lower the knee down (of other leg) & hold.
Hip circles: face side of chair, place elbows on chair, w/ bent knees & flat back> bent leg circles outward then inward.
Single leg moving march: stand w/ one hand placed on chair> lift one knee up (high as possible), extend leg w/ flexed foot, reverse motion, alternating legs.
Side leg raises: lie on side w/ straight legs & bent bottom arm (that hand supports head), top leg is rotated so that toes face down/floor> slow pace leg raises> after completion of last rep, rainbow (semi-circle) the leg to front, lower to floor & hold, then reverse motion.
Side leg raises (elevated on chair): waist & hips of one side are lying on chair, bottom arm extended/hand on floor> perform leg raises w/ leg spins (alternates rotating both ways).
IT band melt-down (on chair): from previous position (side-lying on chair), top leg pulls to the back of other & lowers down a bit, bottom leg bends & it’s ankle is placed on top of other leg/hooks (pulls top leg down) & hold.
Half happy baby, mini-vinny (optional use of yoga strap): lie on back, w/ one leg extended, other is bent w/ strap wrapped around in-step of foot (or hand holds it), thigh drawn towards chest> lower knee to floor (other hip moves w/ motion, lifts up when other side knee lowers to floor) & reverse motion> leg externally rotated (bent, inside of leg faces body)> extend leg over body (cross) & reverse motion.
KneeHow (17:43 min.): uses yoga block, small towel (or plate or s/gliding disc for carpet), large towel, yoga mat & chair. 6-10 reps cued for some exercises, 30-60 seconds for some static stretches.
Rolling feet see saws (plantar & dorsi flexion): start w/ soles of feet on floor in standing position> roll feet from ball of feet to flexed position (only heels on floor), reverse motion (balls of feet on floor)> add overhead arms swing & lower.
Squat: place yoga block between thighs & squeeze> squat w/ flat back & arm reach to rear, then stand up w/ overhead arm reach> add Rolling feet see saws (roll onto heels in lowered position of squat, roll onto balls of feet in standing position).
Standing towel slides: traveling leg’s foot is on towel (or plate or s/gliding disc)> alternate a rear lunge (rear leg straight) and single leg slide to front (leg sliding is straight, other leg bent)> add sweeping arms (overhead w/ single leg slide to front, sweep rear w/ rear lunge).
Standing towel curtsy: curtsy lunge (leg sliding behind other leg & to other side is straight)> add arm sweep (overhead w/ curtsy lunge, and to sides w/ reversing motion).
Warrior 3 squats (optional hold to chair or wall): start w/ hinge at hips w/ flat back, bent knees, arms next to ears> pull heel of one leg up, and straighten the other leg & reverse motion.
Full squat (uses rolled yoga mat & large towel): towel is placed behind knees (acts as spacer), place heels on rolled mat, squat & hold.
Bridges on a chair: place heels on side of chair> slowly lift hips & reverse motion.
IT band melt-down (elevated on yoga blocks): lie on side of hips on 2-3 yoga blocks (or chair if tall), bottom elbow is bent> top leg moved to the back of other & lowers down a bit, bottom leg bends & it’s ankle is placed on top of other leg/hooks (pulls top leg down) & hold.
Asymmetrical happy baby: start w/ wide stance of legs, turned out feet, place one foot flat on chair, squat & hold (elbows can rest on thighs, or hands reach for yoga blocks or floor)> can add lateral movement.
Pigeon stretch: face side of chair & place externally rotated leg (bent, outside of leg on chair)> step back the other leg, bend it & hold.
Extreme supported runner’s lunge: face side of chair & step leg over it (it is bent, chest rests on it), other (upper) leg (and hip) rests on chair, hands on floor at sides of leg> same side arm reaches for foot, pulls the heel to the butt & hold. Modified exercise: use yoga strap to assist w/ pulling of heel to butt.
Leg stretch #3 (a variation of this in Kneehab 1, is performed on a chair): uses a yoga block & strap (or hand if flexible)> place yoga block under hips, one leg extended on floor to front, for other leg, loop in-step of one foot w/ strap & extend leg (vertically), then pivot & cross the leg over to other side (leg can be bent or straight, foot rests on floor), spine is rotated in other direction (of leg) & hold.
Knee Anatomy (6:15 min.): discusses the anatomy of knee & leg (upper & lower), and how issues in other areas (hip or ankle) could be related to current knee issues. Jill uses a (plastic, adult size) human skeleton & model of a hip joint to point out the areas that she is discussing.
cardiomama
10/08/2011
"Kneehab” led by Jill Miller consists of 4 segments/routines for the knees. PreHab is a massage-focused segment that can be used as a warm-up or cool-down to other workouts, and is also used to assess the condition of knees (so that user can asses which other KneeHab routine to focus on). KneeHab 1 is for those recovering from an injury, and focused on “strength & mobility” exercises w/ most exercises performed on a chair. KneeHab 2 is for those who have mastered KneeHab 1 and builds off of the exercises in KneeHab 1 w/ a focus on “mobility, stability & agility” exercises. KneeHow is an advanced routine for those w/out knee issues who would like to use “knee strengthening” exercises for gains in athletic performance (also for those who have mastered KneeHab 2).
I am reviewing PreHab and KneeHab 1, I have used both not due to a knee injury, rather, I have been incorporating consistent floor-work into my regimen for the past few months (lots of high rep exercises in quadruped position or side bridge/ balance on one elbow & knee) and there has been increased tightness around the knees & a bit of pain on one, at times (so hoping to use these segments to help resolve those issues). PreHab has variety of exercises to massage the all areas of the lower body (hips, glutes, hamstrings, IT band, thighs, shins & feet) w/ the therapy balls. And it is tough to roll on many places (similar to a foam roller), I don’t feel the areas as tender/tight in my everyday life, but when using the balls to roll over the areas, it’s very evident. I plan to use PreHab daily or every other day, and see how it goes. KneeHab 1 has a mix of static hold and dynamic movements, it is a feel good routine compared to PreHab (liked it a lot). I plan to try KneeHab 2 and think this segment will likely serve me better (for those who are more physically active, I'm not impaired or healing from a knee injury but do have tight areas of the lower leg).
This is my introduction to a Jill Miller workout, she is highly recommended by VFers and on other sites (so interested me in trying out her routines). I found that she has a warm personality and thoroughly explains form pointers, purpose of exercises & uses the anatomical terms w/out losing the user (either by dumbing down the content or explaining in a confusing or condescending manner). Jill is very competent, and sequences in a variety of exercises w/ modifications (down or up) to really focus on prehab/rehab for the lower body (not just knees).
Introduction (2:20 min.)
PreHab (11:53 min.): uses mat, yoga block (or pillow for head), pillow & a pair of yoga therapy balls. No reps or time recommendations are given, one can follow along w/ Jill or as long as can be tolerated.
Glute: lie on back w/ bent knees, place ball under apex (largest point/part) of one glute, and turn out that leg (outside of foot rests on floor)> roll side to side on balls.
Deep 6 lateral (external) rotators of hip: from previous position, place balls in between tailbone & side of glute, leg extends to front, rest on elbows> tilt pelvis anteriorly or posteriorly or static hold.
Tensor facia lata (side of hip): place ball on side of hip, and lie onto side, bottom arm bent, bottom leg straight, top is bent w/ foot crosses over front of other leg> roll up & down side of hip, side to side or lift & lower bottom leg.
IT Band: from previous position, bend bottom leg and place balls on IT band, other leg crosses side of leg> roll up & down ball> change direction of balls (length of leg, previous turned for the width) & bottom leg crosses under other for side to side motion.
Repeat sequence on other side.
Adductors: lie on side w/ head supported by yoga block (or pillow) & bent knees, a pillow placed in between legs w/ balls on either side (inner thigh)> roll up & down, kick legs forward & reverse motion.
Needy ball: start on all fours w/ one knee placed on pillow, other knee has ball under it> roll ball around contours of knee joint. Alternative exercise: sit & manually roll ball around knee w/ both hands.
Shin rolling: place one shin on ball on a chair (other leg straight, both hands on chair w/ flat back), roll up & down ball (to ankle & reverse motion) & twisting motion.
Sit on heels (in table top position): start on all fours w/ a ball placed in crook of each knee, toes curled under> lower glutes to the heels of feet, and shift hips side to side.
Feet rolling: lace bottom of foot on ball> shift foot side to side on ball (inversion, eversion of ankles) and back & forth (soles of feet).
KneeHab 1 (13:13 min.): uses chair, small towel (paper/plastic plates or gliding/sliding discs for carpet users), large towel or blanket (or yoga strap). Mostly 20-30 reps per exercise (some 10 reps), static holds for 30-60 seconds (Jill does not demo all of the reps & time for each exercise, so users would need to complete on their own/pause DVD to complete all reps).
Knee cap lifts: start seated in at front of chair w/ legs extended on floor w/ flexed feet> lift knee both caps, alternating sides> push down on quadriceps w/ hands, while lifting knee caps (adds resistance).
Rolling feet see saws (plantar & dorsi flexion): start w/ soles of feet on floor> roll from balls of feet to flexed position (only heels on floor), reverse motion (balls of feet on floor)> Rolling see saw sideways (ankle inversion, eversion): knees open & close w/ rolling onto outside & inside of feet.
Static hold for knee caps: extend both legs in front of body & hold> gas pedals (alternate rolling through each foot to pointed & flexed position).
Towel twists (uses small towel): bent knees, towel is placed under feet (or if on carpet use paper/plastic plates or gliding/sliding discs)> rotate feet open & reverse motion.
Foot hook (knee extension): start w/ bent knees, big & second toe hook around back of ankle of other foot> extend legs to straightened position & reverse motion.
Polite Inner thighs: start w/ bent knees, alternate crossing one leg over other (just soles of feet on floor w/ movement).
Quad stretch: start w/ bent knees> move one foot under chair (ball of foot on floor) & bring leg back (90 degree angle), contract the glute of that leg & hold.
Hamstring stretch (uses big towel, blanket or yoga strap): place towel behind knee & lift knee (draw to chest)> straighten leg w/ flexed foot & hold.
Hamstring stretch #2: place towel around foot, lift knee to chest, straighten leg w/ flexed foot, then rotate open to side & hold.
Hamstring stretch #3: from previous stretch, cross the straightened leg over other leg/side & transfer towel/foot to other hand and hold, the free hand holds onto chair w/ torso rotation.
Supported runner’s lunge: bent leg opens to side of chair, body follows to face the side (w/ flat back), other leg is straight & its top of thigh rests on chair> hands can be on chair or on floor (sides of leg).
cardiomama
10/03/2011
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Post by Karla on Dec 23, 2023 0:22:04 GMT
Yoga Tune Up: Quickfix Rx Jill Miller Year Released: 2009 NOTE: Originally, Quickfix Rx was released as a single, 2 DVD set. Later, Jill Miller released this two DVDs separate as QF Rx Upper Body and QF Rx Lower Body. I am writing a review for the UPPER BODY *only*. I have and like much of Jill Miller's media. In fact, that's what made me so hesitant to pick up this DVD--i.e., the idea that it would duplicate material that I already owned. But, now that I finally did break down and purchase this DVD, I feel like the previous reviewer, Lindsey; I can't believe that I waited so long!  Quickfix Rx Upper Body addresses four "micro regions" of the body: Neck, Shoulders, Upper Back, and finally, Hands/Wrists/Elbows. Here is what you will find on the Main Menu: About Yoga Tune-Up Introduction Play All Quick Fixes Neck *Quick Fix Videos Shoulders *Quick Fix Videos Upper Back *Quick Fix Videos Hands, Wrists, & Elbows If you select any of the "Quick Fix Videos" options, you are taken to a submenu. Here is what a sample submenu looks like for Neck: NECK *Quickfix Introduction *5 Minute Quickfix *Quickfix Introduction *10 Minute Quickfix *Play Both Quickfixes *Back to Main Menu As you can see, these menus are NOT the most user-friendly and a bit unwieldy to navigate! The Introductions to each Quickfix segment are generally quite brief (30-40 seconds), but it also seems completely unnecessary to have them as separate menu sections. Although Kath has already provided some breakdowns, I offer my quick take below, along with actual time information in paratheses (some of the segments aren't actually 5 or 10 minutes long). NECK 5 minute (5m): starts with a stretch, incorporates self-massage using a ball, ends with an isometric stretch 10 minute (10m): seated in chair for series of isometric contractions from all directions; also includes some stretches, and ends on the floor for upper back rolling SHOULDERS 5 minute (5m): very quick-moving series of shoulder circles (both front/back and lateral), milking shoulders, and bridge arms in standing 10-minute (12m): opens with pranic bath; incorporates new moves such as "blockhead" and "railroad piston arms" as well as moves which appear on Jill's other DVDs, including open sesame and reverse crucifix; ends with cow-face arms and ball work on floor UPPER BACK 5 minute (6m): starts seated for cat/cow, adding rotation and deep side bending; finish with forward bend 10 minute (9.5m): start on hands and knees for cat/cow, then move into child's pose variations; also includes cobra, drunken table, and massage work with balls HANDS, WRISTS, & ELBOWS 5 minute (5m): several gripping moves work hands/fingers plus several moves to stretch the forearms 10 minutes (7.5m): starts with a hula wave and forearm self-massage ("squeezing the toothpaste"); continues with eagle arms and a wrist stretch on the floor Again, I am really happy that I finally purchased this. Although some of the material IS familiar to me from Jill's other DVDs--for example, as noted above, the 10 Minute Shoulder Quickfix has exercises which also appear on Jill's Post-Athletic Stretch Routines, another DVD of hers that I own--there is plenty here that is new as well. Furthermore, I really like the short length of the practices (as opposed to the DVDs in Jill's Yoga Link series, which I enjoyed but eventually got rid of because I wasn't using), AND I also like the fact that all of the 10-minute practices (except the hand/wrist/elbow one) offer a combination of postures and ball work. If you are on the fence about this DVD, I highly recommend it. Instructor Comments: Jill is down-to-earth, self-effacing, and fun. Her teaching style combines an impeccable focus on anatomy with a layman's understanding of these issues--quite an accomplishment indeed!  Beth C (aka toaster) 07/08/2011 This is a 130 minute two disc set that is chaptered extremely well. Each body area specific segment has a shorter and longer w/o and each has a brief intro chapter that explains the upcoming exercises & their benefits. Jill leads this workout alone in a living room. Recommended equipment includes: yoga block, strap, and Yoga Tune Up Therapy Balls- but Jill offers equipment substitutions as well. The sections included on these dvds are: neck, shoulders, upper back, hands wrists & elbows, lower back, hips, feet and ankles, and stress relief. Very handy menu so you can pick and choose the sections depending on which body area is troubling you. The exercises are performed sitting on the floor or chair, standing, and lying. In my opinion, this is more of a physical therapy session than a yoga workout (in a GOOD way!). Though she does include yoga inspired moves that target specific body areas. I have sometimes serious neck issues and nothing ever seems to help, until I found this dvd. I am seriously kicking myself for not getting it sooner. I really like the format -the intro is separate so once youve done the w/o a few times you can just select the w/o directly from the main menu. And the fact that each body area has a shorter (5ish min) and a longer (10ish minutes) option- do them separately depending on your time availability or combine them for even more therapy. Its hard to rate this workout because like I said- its more like a heavenly physical therapy session than a workout-but I will say intermediate and appropriate for ALL fitness levels. Jill is obviously very knowledgeable and really knows her stuff! She provides lots of great information on how to properly perform each exercise, tells us which muscle were targeting and why it will help alleviate our pain. I like her personality and look forward to more from her. lindseylu8 03/15/2011 Okay, I love this 2-DVD set. Admittedly, I have and use all of Jill's media output, but this set is such a unique crystallization of Jill's approach. The 5 and 10 minute segments (and the 5 minute is not simply a reconfiguration of the 10 minute) zero in on their targets with Miller's interlacing of flexibility, strength, mobility and even coordination. Standouts for me are the lower back and foot segments. Those are particular problem areas for me but, really, I'm sure I'll get fixated on the rest as well. Jill is very smart and her presentation is clear and fun. For years I've found her DVDs and CDs helpful as support structure for my long-standing yoga practice (way over 10 years, mostly alignment styles, teacher training as well) and was quite happy to see the same principles adapted to shorter formats. Even though I concentrate on yoga, I think the material presented here would be quite adaptable and accessible to other fitness disciplines Instructor Comments: I'd suggest looking at some clips of Jill's stuff her website: www.yogatuneup.com, or elsewhere, to get an idea if these routines might be right for you. It's hard to describe how Jill's focus differs from other media approaches to yoga -- a little like yoga meets physical therapy. Sharon Frost 02/27/2010 I’m reviewing this workout after all of the segments at least twice each. It’s going to be hard for me to do this program full justice, between the amount of material and my lack of knowledge on this subject, so bear with me during my attempts at an adequate overview. General workout breakdown: This DVD contains over 120 minutes of material designed to strengthen, tone, release tension, and massage 7 specific microregions of the body plus 2 breath meditation practices to reduce stress. Jill combines yoga with physical therapy and other bodywork, like Shiatsu, as well as other movement systems, including modern dance and Pilates. - Neck *5 Minute Quickfix will help reduce tension in the major and minor muscles of your neck, including the levator scapulae and sternocleidomastoid. Done seated in a chair, you’ll stretch your neck to the side, use a ball to massage that strenocleidomastoid, use your hands to stretch the muscles along the front of your neck, and use your hands to both stretch and strengthen the back of your neck. *10 Minute Quickfix stabilizes and stretch your neck and upper back muscles to realign your head with your spine. Done seated in a chair, you’ll do isometric contractions in all directions and stretch the levator scapulae in several positions; you’ll then move to the floor for self-massage with 2 balls (and a block or book), shimmying and chugging along the upper shoulders, performing phantom arm movements with the balls, and then protracting and retracting your arms, ending with a self-hug. - Shoulders *5 Minute Quickfix warms up the shoulders, including the rotator cuff and trapezius, as well as chest. Done standing, you’ll roll your shoulders in several directions, milk your shoulders , circle both arms, press hands into your block as you raise it, and clasp arms behind the back to stretch the chest.
*10 Minute Quickfix strengthens and lengthens your shoulders. Done standing, you’ll take a “pranic bath” (a set of flowing arm movements to warm up your shoulders and arms), extend your arms behind you and draw them towards each other to tone your triceps, hold a block behind the head to stretch your external rotators (and strengthen your neck), and make piston arms to strengthen your deltoids and the rotator cuff; on the ground the reverse crucifix and “open sesame” stretch the shoulders and pecs. You return to standing for internal rotation with arm behind the back, triceps stretch with arm behind head, and cow’s face pose (arms only), before resuming a position on the floor with two balls for self massage with arms lifting and lowering and then snow angels.
- Upper Back
*5 Minute Quickfix loosens up your upper back with poses aided by deep breathing. Done seated on a chair, you’ll do cat and cow (including a twisting variation), a couple variations of super slow side bends, and a rag doll forward bend.
*10 Minute Quickfix counteracts a less than active modern lifestyle and targets the erectors, rhomboids, lats, and serratus to strengthen and lengthen them. On the floor you’ll do cat and cow on all fours, side-leaning child’s pose, twisted child, shalabasana mini-vini, drunken table (sometimes called bird dog), cobra in traction, easy seated side bend, and self massage with two balls with protraction and retraction into a hug plus trident arms.
- Hands, Wrists, & Elbows
*5 Minute Quickfix boosts circulation and improves function in your hands and wrists. While standing you do gripping work for your hands and forearms, a turn table-like move, wrist exercises with hands in flower bud-like positions, and a twisting forearm stretch.
*10 Minute Quickfix stimulates blood flow throughout the hands, wrists, and forearms; Jill mentions this may be helpful to counteract the repetitive stress that contributes to carpal tunnel syndrome and tennis elbow. While standing you do a hula wave, articulate the fingers, “squeeze the toothpaste” (massaging the forearm down to the wrist while opening the hand and reverse), candle flame arms (sometimes called eagle arms), and then come down to the floor with wrists turned out to peel palms away from floor.
- Lower Back
*5 Minute Quickfix strengthens the low back, tones the core, and stretches out muscles in this area. You begin on your back on the floor on the blanket for sidewinder for the obliques, revolved abdominal pose, side-bending savasana, locust mini vini, child pose, and then use two balls for flexing and extending the spine.
*10 Minute Quickfix tones the muscles supporting the low back, or the core (rectus abdominals, obliques, and transverse plus quadratus lumborum), to ease low back pain plus tractions spine. You begin on your back on the floor on the blanket for sidewinder with momentum, revolved abdominal pose with top leg stretching, revolved abdominal pose variation with straight legs moving independently (bringing inner thighs into the party), side half boat, mega plank (on forearms), locust mini vini w/ hands clasped behind back, boomerang stretch, and supine leg stretch with leg across body; you end with two balls and a block or two for flexing and extending the spine, then a shimmy, skim, and drop of the buttocks.
- Hips
*5 Minute Quickfix loosens and strengthen hips to improve posture and efficiency of movements by increasing circulation and relaxation. You begin on your back with knee spirals, then flow between half happy baby and reaching across the body to “saw” open the hip socket. This ends with two balls massaging out the piriformis by shimmying buttocks across the balls, then adding in a knee drop.
*10 Minute Quickfix hits the hips from different angles, awakens and balances the iliopsoas, a hip flexor, and tone the low abdominals and buttocks as a bonus. You begin on your back for bicycling legs to tone hip flexors as well as legs and abdominals, bouncing knee to chest to soften hip flexors, and held knee to chest. You move onto all fours with one knee on block for hip hiking, then holding leg out to side. You stand with one foot on block for a forward bend into a twisting variation. You’ll end with a ball rolling along the outside of your leg for an IT band massage .
- Feet & Ankles
*5 Minute Quickfix stretches out the calves, shins, and feet and increases circulation in the feet; Jill says these moves are good to prevent plantar fasciitis or counteract high heel wearing. With legs strapped, you sit back on your heels with your toes curled under you and then with your feet stretched out behind you. You stand at a wall for a calf stretch, then grab two balls for massage at the top and back of the arches on the feet.
*10 Minute Quickfix focuses on rebalancing the distribution of weight across and articulation of the many bones of the feet; Jill mentions these types of moves will help prevent ankle sprains. You begin sitting with legs out in front for ankle circles, dorsiflexion and extension, inverting and everting soles, and alternating big toes and the little toes in separate directions; you then bring up one foot for interdigitation to stretch your foot’s webbing and cranking your ankle. You move to standing for calf raises, then walking around on heels, inverted feet, everted feet, then stretching the calves at the wall (two variations), toe flicking to massage the toe bones, and ending with rolling across the whole foot with a ball.
- Bonus: Stress Relief
*5 Minute Quickfix teaches you the technique of abdominal breathing, done lying on the back, with a bolster or blankets under your knees, to help you release stress and allow your body to heal itself.
*10 Minute Quickfix improves lung capacity and breath awareness as well as relieving stress; done entirely on the back, you’ll do bridge with arm raises on the inhale and lowers on the exhale, then moves into supported corpse for 3-step or 3-part breath.
Level: I’d recommend this to people with some prior yoga and/or bodywork and/or similar experience plus a decent sense of their own body and its issues, but you certainly don’t need to be “advanced” in yoga or anatomy or anything like that. As always, check with your regular medical / health care provider, physical therapist, etc., before proceeding if you have any pre-existing conditions. Not all of these segments are going to work for all situations, so proceed with caution if you have concerns with any particular micro-region. As Jill reminds you, let your own body be your guide and never let “a comfortable amount of discomfort” become pain or anything serious.
This is more accessible than much of Jill’s other media, both in terms of assumed starting knowledge and experience as well as starting strength and flexibility. Those who find the Yoga Link DVD or even her Yoga Tune Up DVD-R series too overwhelming will most likely find these more approachable and less grueling, and those who find her full Tension Tune Down series too strong may find this more tolerable, too.
I’ve been practicing yoga for a long time (almost 8 years now) and still have some strength and flexibility limits plus one or two physical issues. I found these all doable. I especially love the material for the hands and feet, which were lacking attention in my current collection and rotations, and I always appreciate material to release tension in my neck, shoulders, and upper back, usually tight spots for me. The only series that doesn’t work as well for me are the Low Back ones; Jill’s approach, while good for building core strength, just happens not to be as helpful for my particular condition (I pulled or strained a muscle in my low back about a year ago, and core strength wasn’t a major factor in my injury). I have found, however, that using them to warm up before Pilates rather than to release tension, stiffness, or soreness makes more sense for me.
Class: Jill alone. She instructs live in all segments but the stress relief, which is taught via voiceover.
Music: none.
Set: neutral-colored pleasant living room-looking set.
Production: very clear picture and sound (although Jill’s mic, worn on her person, gets almost out of range or muffled in a few poses), helpful camera angles.
Equipment: The DVD says you only need 2 yoga tune up balls (substitute: tennis balls; 2.5” Hi Bounce Pinky Sponge Balls, which you can find at Amazon and some toy stores, are pretty much what Jill sells on her site), 1 yoga block (substitute: thick book), and 1 yoga strap (substitute: tie, dressing gown belt, towel). What it doesn’t say is that as shown you’ll also need a mat (depending upon the surface on which you do this), an additional yoga block, a chair, a blanket (and, if you have carpet or puzzle mats or some other surface that prevents sliding, a large, thick garbage bag or, as someone on the VF forum suggested, a plastic painter’s drop cloth), and a wall or something else to lean against for balance (you could just use that chair).
Space Requirements: Some of these segments are very compact, needing no more space than what you use standing and sweeping your arms out to the side and overhead or lying down with limbs extended. You’ll need more clear space for some of the hip and lower back segments, where you’re moving your legs fully out to each side.
DVD Notes: This actually comes with 2 DVDS: Neck, Shoulders, Upper Back, and Hand / Elbow / Wrist are on one; Low Back, Hips, Feet & Ankles, and Stress Relief are on the other. The 2 discs are in a normal-sized plastic case, with one on each side. I’m very glad these aren’t packed so that they overlap, which is a popular trend with 2-DVD sets, because I will be using them more or less equally, and I would hate to scratch them up simply trying to get them out of the case.
The main menu contains all options, which means no wading through sub menus, but it also means that everything is on one screen. If your TV or monitor doesn’t deal well with widescreen (letterbox) editions of DVDs, or isn’t currently set to handle the 16:9 aspect ratio, this menu will crowd the screen with small letters. I have this problem with my older model TV, but I have no such problem with my widescreen laptop. Of course, the fact that I’m not up close to my TV compounds the problem, so I just have to make sure I have my contacts in or glasses handy when using this in my usual set-up.
Each disc has the Introduction and About Yoga Tune Up. Each microregion has a picture of Jill in action in that area (which as a very visual person I like, especially when I’m having trouble reading the screen from across the room) plus the Quickfix Intro [to the 5 min. Quickfix], the 5 min. Quickfix, the Quickfix Intro [to the 10 min. Quickfix], and the 10 Min. Quickfix. Note that if you choose the Quickfix Intro the related practice starts automatically afterwards.
On my laptop I was able to find chapters within these practices; my regular DVD players and TV had trouble with them, however.
Comments: These are the same segments available for streaming at Jill’s site (yogatuneup.com) under “Quickfix videos.”
Yes, this is pricey, but this is one of my best purchases from 2009 and is destined to be one of my most used DVDs ever. The lengths here are so easy to fit into my schedule, and Jill helps you accomplish a lot in those 5 or 10 minutes.
If you have all or a lot of Jill’s other media you’ll recognize a good deal of what she does here. Some of the same exercises appear in her Yoga Link DVDs or older Yoga Tune Up DVD-R series, and the mini massages using the balls are usually shortened versions of moves that appear in her Tension Tune Down CD series. That said, there’s a good bit of new material here, plus Jill has combined both of her methods, making this a good place to start if you’re new to Jill, a good option if you can’t decide which approach to use today, or a good way to expand your collection of her media.
If you’re looking for expanded versions of her TTD rolling sequences, this isn’t it. If you’re looking for something more relaxing than her usual stuff, this isn’t really it (although the Stress Relief practices could work well for that sort of thing, and I have been known to pair up one of the microregion segments with the related practice off of Barbara Benagh’s Yoga for Stress Relief if a particular physical issue is keeping me awake at night). If you’re looking for a disc that’s easily programmable to allow you to design your own workout, this isn’t really it, either; you’ll be less frustrated if you use one, two, or maybe three segments at a time rather than trying to string these together into a longer practice. All that said, if you like Jill’s stuff but find you don’t often have the time (or strength and/or flexibility) for her other videos, this may be just what you’re looking for.
Those with chronic conditions may find best results come with consistent, regular use, but these also function well as one offs, which has been primarily how I’ve used them. The Quickfixes work as stand alone practices but may also be integrated with your other fitness or physical therapy routines. Although I often use these after being active, including my usual workouts, or a long day sitting at my desk, I have also used segments beforehand, too, as part of warm-ups.
A hypothetical way to use this might be to incorporate one of low back segments into your strength routine 2-3 times a week to strengthen this weak spot, alternate between the hand / wrist / elbow segments when you get home from your work that requires computer use, adding on one of the neck and upper back segments one day when they’re extra tense and adding on one of the feet & ankles segments after wearing high heels to a meeting, pulling out one of the stress relief segments one night when you can’t fall asleep because your mind is racing, and so on.
The closest thing I have to these on my shelf – other than Jill’s other offerings – is probably JB Berns’ Rehab Your Body at Home (also known as the Freedom Restoration Series). The two cover many of the same areas, but JB’s practices are in general a little longer and a little more athletic in background: he starts from personal training and physical therapy, to which he adds in yoga, Pilates, etc. His segments are more rehab-focused, with the second sequence building on the first. Jill, on the other hand, starts more from yoga and related disciplines. Her segments are easy to use as quick fixes because of the short length. Although some of the 10 min. sequences share exercises with the 5 min., the 10 min. are often just deeper explorations, and you can easily alternate between the two without feeling that you need to do the shorter ones first. Other differences: JB mirror cues, uses less equipment (just a chair and a mat), is joined by background exercisers, has musical accompaniment (generally not considered the highlight of his DVD), and wears shoes for most, if not all, of his routines. I see value in both, especially since they include different exercises and some different areas: JB has more for the knees, while Jill has more for the neck, for example. Both instructors know what they’re doing and have produced methods that will prove effective for a lot of people, so you can’t go wrong with either. Personally if I had to choose just one I’d choose Jill’s because I like her sequencing (which involves less of the up, down, up, down that plagues some of JB’s routines), choice of exercises, and personality a little better, plus I have more need for quick tune ups rather than rehab (knock on wood!).
From reading reviews it sounds like another similar program is Debbie Siebers and Chad Waterbury’s Total Body Solution from BeachBody.
If you’re looking more for regular yoga poses used in a therapeutic manner, Desiree Rumbaugh’s Yoga to the Rescue might be more your style.
Instructor Comments:
Jill is a great teacher, and I always find her approach informative. I appreciate that she uses the technical names for muscles, bones, tendons, and ligaments, taking time to explain them and thus helping you become better educated about your own body. She demonstrates an intelligent, intuitive knowledge of anatomy, particularly muscles in motion. Her respect for and internalizing of yoga and similar systems is apparent, and yet she manages to make her practice her own without making it feel like she’s being different for the sake of being different. There is real method behind her madness (and she’s definitely not mad, at least IMHO).
Jill has a warm, encouraging personality; she’s professional but not stilted, lively but not peppy, and interesting to listen to but not out there. I happen to enjoy Jill’s real world images and sense of humor: she describes one posture as the 8th grade graduation pose, another posture as “Barbie doll foot,” and a common point of tension along the upper back as “the area of the psychic bra strap.” Her language is likewise straightforward, although she uses scientific names for body parts as mentioned, some Sanskrit terms for appropriate poses, and the occasional more metaphoric phrase. She speaks here as if she’s leading you in a class or workshop, in a more conversational way; she even stops a few times to note something that’s just happened to her, such as a crack in her back that was a “free” chiropractic adjustment.
Jill cues for her right and left, rather than the viewer’s; she usually faces the viewer, although she will turn around for poses done along the back side of the body to give you a better view or do the ones on the floor with her side to the camera. Her instruction is clear enough that I don’t have an issue with the lack of mirrored cuing; I find it easy enough either to follow her verbal instructions or mirror her movements.
KathAL79
01/24/2010
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