Simply Spoga

Melinda Lee, an editor-at-large for Balance magazine, created "Spoga," an amalgam of several yoga styles, Pilates, Qigong, and meditation and relaxation techniques blended with non deity-specific (other than igniting “the goddess within”) spirituality (bits of eastern and Native American religion are referenced), as well as stretching and strengthening exercises. Lee says Spoga is adapted from ancient rites called the Five Tibetans (the press release claims that "Colonel Bradford, a mysterious retired British army officer…learned of the rites…in the Himalayas" and brought them to the West), which she claims clears energies--or balances chakras--to help women look and feel more youthful. Promising less stress, higher productivity, a stronger immune system, increased sexual energy, and other benefits, Simply Spoga is presented in a familiar workout video style, as Lee and two others demonstrate the simpler versions of the practices in three 10-minute modules. Starting with a comfortable seating position, Lee suggests that viewers light a few candles, connect with their breathing, and employ constructive visualizations (I see myself fitting into my favorite jeans, I imagine myself feeling younger, etc.), before moving into the floor exercises, and closing with relaxation techniques. A companion volume, Spoga, offers a more energetic workout. A strong optional purchase, depending on whether you like your yoga with or without the New Age spin. Aud: P. (C. Block)