Anyone who's ever watched a VH1 special about hottest celebrity bodies knows that yoga hit the red carpet almost as hard as collagen and implants did.

Despite Sarah Jessica Parker and Madonna's ringing endorsements, I've always been a skeptic about how much bending and breathing can really affect my overall well being -- until I read Yoga Chick: A Hip Guide to Everything Om by Bess Gallanis.

Gallanis is a well-known yoga instructor in Chicago. Her new instructional book focuses on more than just yoga positions, adding sidebars about aromatherapy, healthy recipes, different religions and spa treatments meant to compliment her system.

Written especially for women, Yoga Chick is divided into several sections, each adding a new element to encourage Gallanis' ideas for maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

One of the strongest sections of the book is the focus on diet in a way that anyone can manage. This book is perfect for college students who don't have a lot of time and money. Want a good breakfast to boost your energy? Try her strawberry yogurt smoothie that's quick, simple and affordable. After that, test out her yoga positions meant to wake up the body and supply lasting energy all day.

Gallanis also includes sections about alternative methods of healing and wellness from eastern cultures. Readers can learn what the words "dosha" and "chakra" mean, and learn how to tell if theirs happens to be blocked.

She manages to address a number of methods for living a healthy life physically, mentally and spiritually, in a surprisingly thorough manner.

This book is great for novices still trying to figure out how to find their center. With its helpful illustrations
and variety of topics, it's easy to find something that works for you.

I still may not have Sarah Jessica Parker's guns, but at least I've learned which foods will balance my chakras. If you're still trying to find the energy to start your healthy New Year's resolution, pick up a copy of Yoga Chick and practice your "oms."