Slim Calm Sexy Yoga: 210 Proven Yoga Moves for Mind/Body Bliss

will be concerned about how you live and your affect on the world, There’s something about all that inward focus and deep breathing that breeds compassion for ourselves, others, and the planet. A growing number of brands and stores offer planet-friendly yoga duds, including brands like Gaiam, Blue Canoe, and Alternative Apparel, all of which are available online.
    You’ll be able to incorporate many of the routines in this book so seamlessly into your life that you might not feel the need for a yoga mat. That said, it’s nice to have one lying around the house somewhere, ready for spontaneous practice. I keep one rolled out on my living room floor for inspiration. If it’s right there staring back at me, I practice much more often than if it was stored in the corner somewhere.
    Your mat choice can play a big part in your overall reaction to yoga. A mat made of plastic and other synthetic materials can be slippery and provide an uncomfortable experience right from your first down dog. Mats made of rubber or other eco-friendly materials are your best bet, because they aren’t slippery and are thick enough to provide cushioning. Many yoga teachers and practitioners suggest Manduka and Jade mats. Pick your favorite color to inspire you to spend more time on it.
    A lot of the routines in this book call for blocks, which can help support you and ease you into certain poses. Occasionally I also suggest using a rolled-up towel or blanket for support. You usually can purchase straps or blocks wherever yoga gear is sold.
    If you decide to take a class, studios should have everything you need. Some teachers incorporate straps and blankets into practice. You can save in this department by bringing a towel or blanket that you already have at home. It’s worth knowing that while many studios provide mats, some charge an extra fee for them, and studio mats can sometimes be breeding grounds for germs. One more reason to consider investing in your own.
    GOOD MORNING ALERT!
    Beware. Practicing yoga can lead to happiness. The more you incorporate yoga routines into your day, the better you’ll feel. All the deep breathing and down dogs put you back in touch with your creativity and peel away the layers of stress. Prepare to feel great.
How to Find a Class

    There are so many different teachers and styles of yoga now that it can be hard to decide which is best for you without test-driving a bunch. Certification requirements run the gamut from a weekend course to multiple years. Most teachers list in their bios where they studied, with whom, for how long, and what certificates they hold. Many teachers are listed with an association called the Yoga Alliance. It’s tricky, though, because all schools of yoga are different, and even if someone has many years of training, you still may not like their style. It’s also worth noting, especially if you hope yoga will help resolve a health problem, that most yoga teachers aren’t medical professionals. If you need a health diagnosis, turn to a medical professional.
    You might need to studio-hop for a couple of months until you find a style, studio, and teacher that you vibe with. It may be as simple as finding the studio closest to your job that has class at a time that works for you. Or you may find yourself schlepping across town to a class with a teacher you can’t get enough of. Here are my insider tips for finding instruction you’ll want to stick with.
      GOOGLE IT UP. There are whole studios dedicated to pre- and postnatal, meditation, athletic, or gentle yoga, and more. Some emphasize the spiritual aspects of yoga more than others. Look for that information on the studio or teacher’s website. Google the studio and your teacher’s name for testimonials, mentions in blogs, and reviews on Web sites.
      ASK AROUND. Some teachers lead the class in chanting. Some emphasize pose perfection. Some pick favorite students. One of the best ways to get details on a teacher’s style is through word of mouth. Ask friends and people who have similar interests and goals to yours, and you’ll probably get sent in the right direction. Bottom line: Your yoga teacher should be kind, knowledgeable, and excited to teach yoga.
      LOOK NEXT DOOR. Just for the sake of convenience, check out the nearest yoga studio to your home or job. Wouldn’t it be nice to be able to roll out your mat just a few blocks away from where you are right now?
      CONSIDER YOUR SCHEDULE. Most yoga classes are