Book by Beth Shaw
Ballantine Books
Most weight loss or weight management programs are courses of limitation and deprivation with an underlying feeling of, “I’m not good enough, so I need to lose weight.” Calorie restriction and increased calorie expenditure is usually part of the program, and much time is spent focusing on numbers. By contrast, Beth Shaw’s YogaLean program, outlined in her new book, is refreshingly different. YogaLean is a yogic approach to creating optimum health and taking care of the body that houses the spirit. With a focus that is greater than simply weight loss, YogaLean takes the reader on an inward journey toward developing a “Lean Consciousness,” providing easy-to-follow steps to examine areas that may need an attitude and/or behavior shift.
The eight limbs of YogaLean, inspired by the eight limbs of classical yoga, outline a holistic path toward a healthy, lean, and energetic lifestyle involving mind, body and spirit. YogaLean guides the reader to use and develop ancient yogic wisdom in combination with specific behaviors that have proven to be helpful when working with weight loss and attaining a healthy weight. Examples include journaling, exercising on a regular basis, eating healthy foods, and building a support system. YogaLean brings in the latest research on neuroscience to explain and support the notion that our thoughts create our bodies and details the steps needed to help one create lasting change.
Meditation is an important component of YogaLean, as is paying attention to our daily habits and the consequences of those habits. YogaLean encourages one to develop the habits that will result in making healthier choices.
One of my favorite parts of this book are the helpful and simple action steps throughout YogaLean that can be implemented immediately. YogaLean encourages expansion and self-acceptance beyond weight loss and truly sets the stage for personal transformation.
Reviewed by Kristy Manuel, MS, ERYT-500 who currently teaches yoga (group and individual Yoga Therapy) in South Orange County, CA. Having overcome an eating disorder in high school and college she has worked with people for more than 25 years guiding them toward optimum health through healthy choices and increased mindfulness. Kristy is a presenter and curriculum author for YogaFit’s 200, 500 RYT and Therapy programs.