Anyone who knows me knows that I'm a reader, so naturally this extends to my yoga practice. I am sitting in front of my bookcase right now and looking at the top shelf which is dedicated to cook books and yoga books (2 very important aspects of life). I think I've checked out every book on yoga in the library down the street and I've purchased the ones I liked. I also have a fantastic collection of books compliments of my Yoga Teacher Training program.
Learning about yoga through books is a very different approach. On the one hand, you can get very in-depth look at the history of yoga and information about which poses to practice when, how to sequence them, etc. However, who wants to be leafing through a book every few minutes when you're trying to get into the flow of things? I think your best approach is to read a few books, practice what they propose, and then let it be incorporated into your regular practice.
Reading is an intricate part of the ancient yoga practice. According to the Yoga Sutras of Pantajali (a foundational text of yoga) one of the 5 observances of a balanced, spiritual life is svadhyaya or study of scriptures and holy works. Reading is a wonderful way to bring yoga into your life.
Here are my favorite yoga books:
Light on Yoga: The Bible of Modern Yoga by B.K.S. Iyengar
This is the classic. The first chapter gives some amazing insights into the practice of yoga. Start here to learn more about the beauty of this ancient practice. Black and white photographs demonstrate all of the yoga postures and there are discussions on pranyama and meditation. Iyengar has also included practice recommendations for different illnesses and physical problems. There is even a course for beginners. If nothing else, the pictures of Iyengar doing poses are amazing. I kept mine out on my coffee table during college and it always sparked interest from visitors.
Hatha Yoga Illustrated by Kirk, Boon and DiTuroI was privileged to have one of the authors Martin Kirk as a guest lecturer during my YTT in Tempe, Arizona. He taught us anatomy and every time he lectured I was amazed by his knowledge of the human body--and that knowledge translated wonderfully into this book. This book offers absolutely the best descriptions of yoga postures that I have ever found. It also gives an awesome introduction to yoga's roots, meditation and yoga postures. All of the yoga poses are divided into categories (standing poses, balancing poses, etc.) and are accompanied by several color photographs and step by step instructions as well as tips for improving. In the back there are several yoga "routines" or everyday practices that will keep you in tip-top shape. I HIGHLY reccomend this one.
Relax & Renew: Restful Yoga for Stressful Times by Judith Lasater
I am a complete sucker for restorative yoga and this is the bible. Judith Lasater was the yogi 'pioneer' who developed what we know today as restorative yoga (see my earlier post to learn more about restorative yoga). With a few props (towels, blankets, etc. you don't need to get fancy) you can follow yoga practices that will leave you feeling relaxed, renewed and refreshed. I would highly recommend this type of practice if you are dealing with stress or emotional issues. There is also a great section just for women that has saved me on quite a few occasions. Love this.
Om Yoga: A Guide to Daily Practice by Cindi Lee
Cindi Lee is a very well-known yoga instructor in New York City. This book gives instructions for a full practice--and one for every day of the week! It is illustrated with whimsical stick figures that make it fun and appealing. I have used this book many times for teaching. This book is a great place to start if you want to begin your own yoga practice at home.
Happy Reading!
