When we met with Rainbeau Mars, yoga spokeswoman (pictured), we were a little intimidated. She’s taken her new yoga method, Ra’yoKa, to 24 countries, and rumor has it she’s about to direct a new yoga studio with attached resto in Hollywood (owned by none other than Juliano of Raw).

Turns out she’s charming and relaxed–though her yoga method, a martial arts/yoga fusion, kicked us into the stratosphere:

It takes concentration. Like Shaolin monks, we practiced a rolling Downward Dog with feet “tennis ball distance apart.” Rising up on our heels, we tucked our chins and rolled our chests toward the floor, ending in Cobra, then reversed the movement.

It takes power. We went from basic yoga poses, like Warrior I, into kung fu-style kicks, sword-drawing moves and face blocks.

It takes balance. With Zen focus, we moved from Half-Moon Pose to standing and back, never letting our free foot touch the ground.

And we sweated. “For people who feel they can’t relax, this is sportier,” explains Mars.

We’re over the moon for it.

Want to try? Check out Mars’ free, at-home workout guide here, book a private session by emailing Mars here, or check out her DVDs.