Element: Yoga for Energy & Relaxation [Blu-ray] [2012]

I bought this DVD thinking it would work up a sweat a little bit, and it could relieve some pent up stress and help me sleep better. Although it doesn't work your muscles like most workout DVDs it focuses more on slowing your breathing to force your muscles to relax. Also, the energy aspect doesn't do as well as I thought it would but it does help wake you up.

Tamal is extremely clear in his instructions, and he lets you know what each pose helps do for your body and mind. The setting is beautiful and calm-- Hawaii. The background music is light and peaceful, and he apparently helped create the music, which I think is pretty cool. Overall, he just has a very calming demeanor, which is a huge part of what makes his series so ideal. He just has a way of encouraging and teaching that is extremely accessible and positive. I hope he creates many more, including ones geared toward people with arthritis or other illnesses.

My yoga DVDs are mostly with Rodney Yee. I like his flows and his instruction. I'm very glad I found this program by Tamal Dodge. He gives clear instruction and has a pleasant voice. The setting is beautiful, typical of Element DVDs, and adds to the enjoyment of Tamal's practice. I really enjoyed the Relaxation routine. I don't do this kind of routine enough in my weekly workouts but need to. Energy is challenging because he holds the poses for a long time, but that helps me to find the pose and work into it. I recommend this DVD.