Yoga Tune Up: Tension Tune Down Series

This is a multi-CD set that continues on the same path as Jill's previous release, Tension Tune Down: Upper Back and Neck. Each CDs includes a sheet of clear photos of the different positions and exercises, but also some simple anatomical illustrations to help you understand where those balls are going. I like the way the series provides context and direction for understanding how your body works through both illustration and sensation. I admit that I’m quite taken with this series. If you have no curiosity about the form and function specifics of your body it might not be a good fit though. And it does take some practice to get the positions/coordination down.

The routines are all short - no more than 20 min.

You can buy the the CDs individually, or as a set and with or without the balls. If you don't already have them, I'd get the balls.

Specifics on the CDs:

Hips/Buttock: an eploration of the entire area. What makes her ball work unique (as far as I can tell from my own outer ball experiences) is that, in addition to the therapeutic/massage aspects of the work, you're also learning to pinpoint boney prominences and major muscles in the area you're working with -- on your own body. This CD in particular gives you a three dimensional picture of a very complex structure.

Rotator Cuff : I tried this one for the first time to prepare for a backbend practice. Most of the work is on your back with the balls on the shoulder blade, with a little bit of supine stuff with the balls just under the clavicle. I'm reminded of my clay anatomy workshops -- after building the muscles on the skeleton armatures we'd work with those same areas on ourselves with balls.

Lower Back: exploration of the quadratus lumborum with some attention to the erector spinae as well. You’ll certainly learn where your QL is from this practice - it’s an in depth tour by ball of the whole muscle, incorporating abdominal strength to anteriorly and exteriorly tilt the pelvis

Mini Series, plus Calves and Feet Bonus: a compilation of samples of the other 3 routines. I thought it was perhaps a superfluous purchase for me, until I got to the calves & feet segment. I loved it. I’ve done a lot of footwork with tennis balls in yoga class but this short sequence seemed to have a real difference. Some of that comes from the quality of the balls (which work far better on the feet than tennis balls: smaller and gripier) but also the way the calf and full sole of the foot are incorporated makes for maximum effect. I can also see using the sampler for a quick full body rejuvenator.