A longtime yoga instructor has put her moves on DVD.

Susan Whitaker, owner and teacher at Canyon Spirit Yoga Center, recently completed a 30-minute exercise video.

“The DVD is something I’ve wanted to do for at least 10 years,” Whitaker said in an e-mail. “I wanted to make it a reflection of our area and to portray the beauty of the canyon, which always inspires me.”

Called “Canyon Spirit Yoga, a complete practice with Susan Whitaker,” it includes a warm-up sequence and three series of standing, sitting and lying down postures. There’s also a continuous-play section.

Whitaker describes it as a gentle and thorough workout.

“It’s so much easier do to yoga with others in a class,” she said. “But if you can’t afford classes or need help doing yoga on your own, using a video provides support to keep you going. It’s a great incentive.”

Weimar resident Mary Kashuba likes the flexibility the DVD offers.

“I can take it with me when I travel,” she said “When I do yoga at home, it really helps to have the guidance of a teacher and that’s kind of what (the DVD provides). So you can focus on what you are doing.”

Kashuba has studied yoga for 15 years and has been a student at Canyon Spirit since it opened. The DVD means she doesn’t ever have to miss a yoga session.

“I’ve done it where I’ve turned down the sound and just watched,” she said. “More than that, (Whitaker) has a really soothing voice and a nice way of explaining. You don’t have to really look at it. You can understand the posture and the movements by her descriptions. “

Resident Jim Dill was also impressed.

“I’ve viewed her video and taken yoga from her for many years,” he said. “The video was quite informative. I loaned it to a neighbor who is thinking about starting yoga.”

Local musicians Paula Peach and Fred Knox provided the music.

“It really flows together,” Whitaker said.

Whitaker has been practicing and teaching yoga since 1976. Her training includes certifications from Kripalu Yoga Center and Integrative Yoga Therapy.

Gloria Young can be reached at gloriay@goldcountrymedia.com

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Canyon Spirit Yoga

What: The DVD is for all levels and costs $25. It is available at Canyon Spirit Yoga Center, online at www.canyonspirityogacenter.com or purchase it at Wildflower Gifts, Confluence Kitchen, Bukovina and Canyon Health Center.