The Vital Psoas Muscle presents an in-depth look at the most important yet abused skeletal muscle in the human body. Located deep within the front hip joint and lower spine, the psoas is critical for optimal postural alignment, movement, and overall well being. Its function and importance extend beyond anatomical mechanics to the nerve complex and energy systems. Taking a uniquely holistic approach, this book explores how the psoas affects the health of the body, mind, and spirit: Physically, as the only muscle that connects the upper and lower body Emotionally, as a messenger to and from the brain and a vessel of deeply rooted feelings Spiritually, as an integrator within the root of the lower chakras, subtly affecting the flow of life energy throughout the body Understanding and working with the psoas can help: Alleviate lower back pain Strengthen the core Correct posture Reduce trauma Open energy channels No matter our level of fitness or flexibility, how we use the psoas and take care of it is crucial to our life experience. With detailed illustrations and key stretching and strengthening exercises, including complete chapters on the role of the psoas in Pilates and yoga, The Vital Psoas shows readers how to release this muscle to create balance, harmony, and freedom of movement.

Written for yogis of all levels, 'The Anatomy of Yoga Coloring Book' perfectly bridges the gap between anatomy textbook, yoga compendium, and interactive revision tool. The human body is a complex and fascinating machine. Author Jo Ann Staugaard-Jones illustrates just how clever it is by first breaking it down in to its component parts, and then putting it back together in its full glory within the context of yoga movement. Starting with a comprehensive examination of the nervous system, anatomical movement, and all the body systems, the book then truly comes to life as Staugaard-Jones presents over 50 popular asanas describing with color and artistry which muscles are being strengthened (contracting), which are being stretched (lengthened), and which muscles are working as stabilizers to support the pose. Test your knowledge as you color intricate black and white drawings of each asana The seven categories of asanas are presented with prompts to color relevant structures and functions, insightful technique tips, and anatomical nuggets that will enhance your understanding of the science behind your practice. You will learn not only the benefits of each pose but also the contraindications, relevant terminology, and how to vary poses where necessary. The healing heart of yoga What sets this book apart from others is its inclusion of the subtler realm of yoga - that which is referred to as 'energetic anatomy'. Understanding the unseen energies of the body in terms of fascia, bandhas, nadis, and chakras will take you beyond just muscle and joint mechanics, alignment and technique, and connect you more profoundly to the yogic way of life.

Awareness of movement potential," says author Jo Ann Staugaard-Jones, "is key to a healthy body and injury prevention." "The Anatomy of Exercise & Movement "shows readers how to gain that awareness by understanding the biomechanics of movement. In ten chapters, color-coded for easy reference, the author covers all of the major muscle and joint areas, including the spine; core region; shoulder; elbow; wrist and hand; and hip, knee, and ankle/foot joints. Most importantly, each chapter contains strengthening and stretching exercises for all of the above areas.
Developed as a handbook, "The Anatomy of Exercise & Movement" is an accessible resource for anyone who would like to know more about his or her body, how it moves, and what can be done to improve that movement. The more than 275 high-quality, four-color anatomical drawings and the broad scope of muscle and joint groups make this one of the most important guides to the moving body on the market. A helpful "Myths" page at the end of each chapter debunks many of the misunderstandings and rumors about fitness that have circulated over the years.

Located deep within the anterior hip joint and lower spine, the psoas major (usually just referred to as the psoas) is critical for optimal postural alignment, movement, and overall well being. The psoas is the only muscle in the human organism that connects the upper body to the lower body, and its importance extends to the nerve complex and energy systems.

As modern-day populations grow more sedentary, psoas-related lower back and hip pain, and the ailment of “sitting too much,” are on the rise. Even the most active of athletes can suffer from psoas imbalance and pain. The Vital Psoas Muscle demonstrates how to keep the muscle in balance through specific exercises designed to strengthen and utilize this amazing muscle, and discusses its vital role in the emotional and spiritual state of the human being. The interconnection between the psoas and the root chakra is explored, along with yoga poses and postures that stimulate the psoas.

Eighty full-color illustrations depict anatomical details, and show the key stretching and strengthening exercises in this practical and comprehensive treatment of the most important skeletal muscle in the human body.

MnM's is a book about muscles and movement, written for anyone interested in learning about the human body, how it works and what can be done to improve it.

MnM's (And I Don't Mean Chocolate...): A Muscle and Movement Handbook is a book about muscles and movement, a resource for those who would like to know more about the human body and how it works without having to read a cumbersome textbook. Written in a light-hearted yet informative style, the text includes detailed material on location and actions of different muscles. The illustrations and pictures demonstrate invaluable stretch and strength exercises for each joint area, and cover a wide scope of fitness areas: weight- training, Yoga, Pilates, sports, and dance.
The book's approach is unique because it can be used a handbook, a 'portable guide' to the correct use of the body. Each chapter centers on a large muscle group, relating it to current concepts and myths in the fitness industry, while giving in-depth information. There is a sense of humor throughout the material; the book is meant to be fun and interesting.
The text maintains that a person is capable of conditioning, maintaining, and/or healing oneself without spending thousands of dollars. With knowledge of the body's mechanisms, one can begin to improve their physical as well as mental and emotional health, relieve pain, and increase quality and longevity of life. Specific areas addressed are alignment, injury prevention, rehabilitation, the 'weekend' as well as professional athlete, and conditions such as lower back pain, bursitis, and shoulder, hip, and knee problems.
There are an increasing number of people who want to know more about their body and what can be done to improve it, no matter what age and without the fitness "hype." This text will appeal to teachers of exercise, fitness enthusiasts, andprofessionals in the science of movement. It is precise yet readable, for anyone interested in the human body and its potential.