Maya Yoga Vinyasa Fusion-Standing Flow Series

Filmed on the beautiful island of Maui, the workout provides a visually stimulating setting. (all 3 workouts on each dvd were filmed individually with different settings of the island so you won't get bored) Nicki instructs the workouts alone and performs it using voiceover. During the practice there is no music. I felt this allowed me to really listen to Nicki's instruction and to go deeper in some of the moves. The workouts are for all practioners. Each of the three sequences seemed to get progressively harder. Nicki would add a few additional poses to the initial sequence, sometimes including balancing poses or more advanced poses such as full wheel. As in all of Nicki's Maya Yoga series, beginners may want to start with the 20 minute workout, practice it and once they feel comfortable move onto the 30 minute sequence. Once that has been mastered, the 45 minute routine provides a much more challenging experience.

This 20 minute sequence will help tone and strengthen the entire lower body. Again, beginning in childs pose, you'll then move to standing for a few sun salutations. (this really prepares the body for the standing postures) This flow continues through several full sun salutes. The standing poses include triangle, extended lateral angle pose, standing forward bend and warrior. You will perform each pose from one side then to the other. (wonderful flow) Next you'll sit in a butterfly pose and then move into a deep seated wide angle pose. Following this, lie back and perform a flowing twist from side to side with knees bent to chest. Rest pose completes this practice.

The 30 minute workout includes a few extra poses such as standing wide angle and boat pose. The 45 minute session includes more difficult postures and a few balance poses as well.