The Way of Stretching: Flexibility for Body and Mind

Rush draws on principles and practices from yoga, massage, the Japanese martial art aikido and other traditions for her comprehensive program to create and sustain health through a balanced system of "safe stretching." According to the author, who has written many books on massage and yoga, the easiest low-impact movements offer the greatest benefits (in terms of longevity). Key to Rush's system is what she calls the Rush Reverse, an approach to exercise that trains the body to stretch "by relaxing rather than by straining." Readers who have been practicing yoga will probably be familiar with the chakra system (which focuses on centers of physical, emotional and spiritual energy), around which Rush structures her program. While the book's b&w line drawings are somewhat rudimentary, Rush's instructions and explanations are clear and thorough. Breathing practices, relaxation techniques and a focus on finding pleasure in movement are central to Rush's program, and her holistic approach incorporates a wide variety of ways for readers who can't engage in more strenuous physical activity to become fit. This work offers a wealth of solid information. Agent, Katinka Matson. (Aug.)