YOGA FOR BEGINNERS
A Simple Guide to the Best Yoga Styles and Exercises for Relaxation, Stretching, and Good Health
By: Ntathu Allen
Published: October 15, 2017
Publisher: TCK Publishing
Non-Fiction
Even though this book was published a couple of years ago, I just received this for review. The author is a yoga and meditation teacher offering simple yoga exercises and techniques you can do at home or at work. Yoga is known for relieving stress, bringing calm to your life, and helping you focus. It is also beneficial for improving balance and strength. Obviously, you should always consult your own doctor before beginning any exercise regimen. The author also reminds the reader that breathing in and out gently through the nose while performing these exercises allows you to receive the full benefit of the meditation practice.
I’ve done a few yoga classes and tried some at home. I even have a yoga mat. But, I get frustrated and feel like I’m not doing it “right” and then quit for a while. Then something will inspire me to try it again. I really love how it makes me feel when I do it and I am well-aware of the benefits yoga. There is no better time for me to bring a calming routine into my day, than now.
I really love how Allen starts with the dangers of stress on your health and the benefits of adding yoga to your daily routine. She begins with exercises you can do right in your bed as you are waking up. I’m really enjoying her five yoga stretches as a way to ease into my day. She then moves into eight yoga exercises and stretches to do while at your desk at work. For those of you slogging through zoom meetings and conference calls right now, these stretches would be super helpful. Then after your workday, she offers six new exercises that you can even do with your kids to let go of all the stresses of a work/school day.
Each exercise offers illustrations as well as a case study example, benefits of that exercise, and tips for beginners. Every exercise is well-explained and the illustrations are clear. At the end of the day, if you have trouble shutting your brain off as I do, she offers five calming activities for getting a good night’s sleep.
Deep breathing exercises and meditation round out her advice for those looking to add more calm to their lives. For those who struggle with anxiety or stressful jobs or personal lives, I really feel like adding yoga to your daily routine can make a difference. I have several friends and family who swear by its benefits. Allen’s book is very easy to understand. She doesn’t overwhelm beginners with lots of exercises and explanations. She offers you the basics, encourages you to master them, and leaves the door open for adding in more when you are ready. This feels doable for anyone with a busy schedule and I also loved how she encourages you to bring your whole family into the routine. Kids love doing yoga too and it’s a great time for them to start learning the benefits of yoga for their lives as well.
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Thanks to the publisher for sending a copy of this book for the purpose of this review. This review is my honest opinion. If you choose to make a purchase through the above links, I may receive a small commission without you having to pay a cent more for your purchase.
Posted Under Book Review, exercise, fitness, health, non-fiction, Ntathu Allen, yoga