Yoga as a Buffer for Menopause

It is only fair to give credit where credit is due. Kelly Piper’s last audio, “Healing Yoga,” was most soundly derided in this space for sounding like a parody of self-help books. This time she has toned down the patronizing delivery, speaking gently instead in a strange and breathy whisper. The music has also improved consider-

ably and the chirping birds have been executed--I mean, excised. The exercises are clearly explained and aimed at helping women overcome the discomfort of menopause.

She includes an extremely useful booklet outlining the best exercises for specific problems, along with photos of the basic positions. Sensibly produced, the audio, along with the booklet, is recommended for women taking a proactive approach to their changing bodies. Suitable for those new to yoga.

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LIVING IN THE SOLUTION by John W. with James A. Abridged nonfiction, Two cassettes, Length: three hours. $18. Read by Shadoe Stevens and a host of contributing actors. Available by calling (800) 368-3007.

If you have ever wondered what actually goes on in AA meetings, this will supply the answers. It is composed of aphorisms, AA cliches, testimonials and wisdom from seminal AA literature. The format is similar to that of audios made up of daily affirmations, though this has more humor than most in the genre. It is a bit too peppy, and the music used to occasionally separate segments is unnecessarily loud and jarring. Thankfully, there is very little of it. What is most surprising about this audio is that it is not dull. Each segment is read in a different voice, which makes it sound genuine, as if you really are hearing recovering alcoholics speak in a meeting. It is very lightly abridged, and the narrators are all able-voiced and enthusiastic.