My second season of triathlon training is about to kick off (in January). Yoga is an important part of my exercise regimen (triathlon training or not) and I am considering new ways to fit more practice time into my life. I have a favorite yoga class that I attend when I can but, because children and life are unpredictable, I can’t always get there in time. If I can carve out just a little extra time at home to supplement my class, I should be able to get many of the benefits of yoga by establishing a home practice (this has been a goal of mine for some time).

I have occasionally used yoga DVDs at home and I thought I’d share a favorite for others considering adding this to their lives as well.

First, please note that a DVD is not a complete substitute for attending a yoga class, especially if you are a beginner. In a class, you are given feedback and coaching on your poses and alignment that are just not possible at home with a DVD. Also, flowing through a yoga sequence in a room with others offers a feeling of connection and peace that can add so much to your practice.

A simple, short, nourishing yoga DVD:

A.M. and P.M. Yoga

With Rodney Yee and Patricia Walden

These routines are short (about 20 minutes each) and are not particularly challenging. What I like about this DVD is that, in addition to basic yoga poses, it does a great job of introducing new practitioners to the meditative flow yoga. I just love easing into my day with the sound of the ocean and distant gongs that complete the meditation section at the end of the A.M. session.