The Nalini Method

November 16, 2015
Mehta, founder of the nonprofit NaliniKids, a fitness program for at-risk middle school students in New York City, outlines a holistic fitness plan that values emotional and physical health equally. The Nalini Method, named after Mehta’s mother, rests on the belief that fitness should extend to one’s personal life. Part one outlines the plan’s fundamentals, including how to measure “emotional weight.” This minimalist plan requires no specialized equipment or attire, only a yoga mat; workouts are short, lasting from 20 to 25 minutes. Part two makes up the bulk of the book, with seven chapters of workouts designed to express or deal with different emotions: anger, energy, stress, chill, happiness, doubt, and anxiety. Each mood workout lists easy-to-follow exercises, replete with pictures of Mehta demonstrating each move. Mehta also includes pre-workout checklists, mantras, and music recommendations. In the final section, she provides a handful of colorful and diverse blended beverages matched in taste to the various moods. This lively mind-body program should appeal to readers who are looking to promote health in their lives and is appropriate for all ages and skill levels. Agent: Dan Strone, Trident Media.