Product Description
This introduction to yoga for children contains variations on traditional yoga postures that help children develop physical strength, flexibility, emotional calm, and self-expression. The games involve relaxation, trust, and cooperation. Included are over 50 illustrations and 16 completely structured lessons based on themes like the seasons, rain, snow, and animals. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (14)

great games and variations on sun salutation
The book has great games to intertwine with the regular practice and make it more fun. When children lose interest in just the regular poses, these games can help break the regularity and also help children work together. I particularly love the sun salutation. The children love the twirling and stomping. I recommend this book to yoga teachers or mom's that have a regular practice with their children and want to break it up a little.

great book
Really nice book ,good pirce looks like knew and I got in time thumbs up!!!!

Good information and layout
This book was exactly what I needed.I teach Kids Yoga and was looking for some new things to do.I really like how it is broken up between age groups and the book is organized well.I have used a few of the games already in my class.

Thank You
Karen

A must for educators
I'm starting my yoga for children classes and bought quite few of them.

There was good and great and so-so. And all of them contained same poses.

But for kids doing poses is not enough, they need fun and games and that's is why this book so special. It gives you all kind on games with age distinctions .

It's great book for educators and yoga teachers.

Very recommending.

YOGA GAMES FOR CHILDREN
YOGA GAMES FOR CHILDREN

I work with children. I am a paraprofessional in a special needs school, and was very excited to read this book, to see if there might be anything I could use with our kids.
One of the things that I noticed right away is how many of the games and exercises were done in groups or pairs. This is fantastic in my opinion! It seems to me that these days kids are more isolated than in the past. I am not sure what it is, but I rarely see little girls walking and holding hands or boys roughhousing. Fighting yes, just roughhousing, no. I also have noted that most parents do not hold their children's hands any more. This is very sad in my opinion, as touch in and of its own is healing. Touch during play is a good thing!

So, I was very pleased to find that there were things that there were games where the kids held hands or leaned back against each other. I believe this helps to build co-operation and understanding.
There are also plenty of games where it is individuals alone. My favorite is Sun Salutations! It incorporates many basic yoga positions, and it will be a lot of fun for the kids. The Mountain is a close runner up. I can just see the kids enjoying those games, and having fun.
The relaxation exercises are ideal as well. Sometimes kids, as well as adults, need to just let it go and breathe. This book gives several examples of how to do this.
I will not be able to use many of these games with my special needs classroom. We have a low functioning group and the understanding is not there in some cases, and the physical abilities are not there in others. My niece is a preschool teacher in a daycare facility, as well as being Assistant Director. She is very excited about trying many of these games with her class! I had a hard time holding onto the book long enough to finish reading it before passing it on. She is thinking that if it works out she can suggest it for other sites in the corporate system she works in .

This book would also be great fun for any family with young or even not so young kids. I raised four kids of my own, and know how valuable that together time is, and there are many fun suggestions here. I highly recommend this book to anyone who has young ones in their life.
... Read more

Customer Reviews (37)

Great Way to Learn Sanskrit
Great book! Fantastic and easy way of breaking down sanskrit. It also explains the meaning behind the words and philosophy. It is a must have for any yoga teacher and any student interested in furthering their yoga knowledge.

Mediocre pronunciation at best
While I understand that the general American population is linguistically deficient and that any sort of help with Yoga terms is better than none,I can say that I was completely disappointed with the author's command of Sanskrit pronunciation.My husband, who is from India, listened to the book with me and after a few seconds said, "Pathetic!" and walked away. Even I could hear the poor pronunciation, and I am by no means a Sanskrit scholar.Clearly the author has little understanding of the place of articulation of Sanskrit consonants and other articulation rules.His American accent is noticeable.I would only recommend this book because it's probably better than nothing, and because I am sick of all my Yoga teachers not being able to pronounce even something as basic as "Namaste" (both "a"s are schwas!)

Great guide to learn about yoga / sanskrit terms
I am studying to become a yoga teacher and I found this book / CD's to be very useful in learning the correct Sanskrit pronunciation.

It helped me understand the meaning of asana names (yoga poses).

Pros: The sections are easy to go through. It has 2 CD's which contain chants, some yoga sutras, various yoga terms, astanga sequences, asana names, synonyms, and the Sanskrit alphabet.
The book contains drawings of he poses which is very practical.The book is hardcover and the interior that is spiral bound.

Cons: For the astanga sequences, it listed the Sanskrit numerical order instead of the asana name.I would have preferred both the number and the asana names, but this is a personal choice.

Namaste.
Tanya

If you are serious about teaching yoga, this should be in your library.
If you are serious about teaching yoga, this should be in your library, unless you have already mastered the vocabulary. It was smart of the author to record the two cd's that you can play along with the book as you work on your sanskrit. The book and cd's are easy to use, easy to find things, also includes simple drawings of the asanas.

GREAT LEARNING TOOL
I am a new yoga instructor and wanted to learn the Sanskrit language.This is a helpful guide for learning pronunciation and has great illustrations for different levels of Ashtanga sequences to follow.I recommend this book w/CDs to anyone wanting to go deeper in their practice and enhance their yoga journey. ... Read more

Product Description
Yoga Nidra is a simple yet profound technique adapted by Swami Satyananda Saraswati from the traditional tantric practice of nyasa.The Text explains the theory of Yoga Nidra in both yogic and scientific terms and includes class transcriptions of the practice.It also presents the various applications of this versatile technique,which has been used for deep relaxation,in stress management and therapy,to enhance the learning process in education,to harmonize the deeper unconscious and awaken inner potential,and as a meditative technique.A research section is also included. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (16)

A way of reaching your own true essence
First of all, it takes time to record the sessions of the book. Anyway, when practising you totally capitalize your time by reaching high levels of concentration and deep relax. A true and unique jewel you mustn't obviate, just like others publications of Bihar School of Yoga!!!

great ideas
My students love yoga nidra. This book has great ideas that you can follow or modify to fit your student's needs.

Perfect!
When you want to understand what something is about you go to the source! Paramahamsa Satyananda Saraswati tells you everything you need to understand about this subject as HE was the one to bring it out to the public and HE designed it in a way that can achieve results. CD's are convenient but if they are missing the elements that he directed be included in the program you are not getting the intended benefits -- only a watered down version. That is what I have seen of the CD's so far. The choice is yours. Obviously if you get a book on the subject you will be required to record your own audio version (preferable) or try to rely on someone else to give it to you. He has quite a number of different yoga nidra programs that you can record--some basic and some more advanced (which you don't get in a CD) And he talks about the sankalpa--a most important aspect of this. So if you are looking just for some relaxation a CD might be an option, but if you want a spiritual benefit (regardless of your religious preferences), then get his book.

Other Reviewers Have Said It
Excellent, fascinating, scientifically-supported, well-written. One star off only because the practices (it may not be obvious at first) require a teacher, or a 'friend' or for you to record the scripts, or to spend a lot of time memorizing the sequences of rotation of consciousness. The practice seems sound, you just can't easily do it alone, so in the department of a 'How-To' book it falls short a little in that respect. Otherwise excellent.

EXCELEENT YOGA NIDRA
this is a great description of yoga nidra, which is why I sought it out and purchased it. ... Read more

Product Description
In 30 Essential Yoga Poses, Judith Lasater draws on her wealth of yoga practice and teaching experience, as well as her training as a physical therapist, to present this comprehensive guide for beginning students and their teachers. The author discusses yoga's ancient eightfold path and its relevance in today's world, and goes to the heart of yoga—the all-important student-teacher relationship. Thirty essential yoga poses (asana), their variations, and breathing practices (pranayama) are also provided, with guidance for the student practicing at home, and points for the classroom teacher. Sequences are presented with photographic charts for easy visual reference, and a "Mantra for Daily Practice" and glossary of anatomical terms and resources for further study are also included. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (20)

Excellent
Excellent resource for beginners or more experienced practioners who just want to keep things simple.

Review from a beginning yoga instructor
I recently completed a 200 hr. certification to teach yoga and I find this book invaluable.I use it for sequencing, attention to technical detail and inspiration.Judith just knows how to make each asana make sense.I only wish there were more than 30 essential poses:)

30 Essential Yoga Poses
A lovely book written with care and passion for and about yoga. The poses are well-illustrated and easy to follow. I found this book very helpful when seeking information about poses and various modifications of the basic poses. It's now an oft-referred part of my yoga library.

30 Essential Yoga Poses
An excellent book. Poses are described in understandable terms. Pitfalls are pointed out. This book has launched me on a regular Yoga practice that I was struggling to establish. Thank you Judith Lasater!

Great book for beginners in Yoga
This book was just what I was looking for.Very easy to follow and if I can't do a pose the props are shown and an easy beginner version is described.The book is in great condition just as described. ... Read more

Product Description
By time she was in her early twenties, Sandy Blaine was facing multiple traumatic knee injuries that left her in constant pain. After enduring extensive physical therapy with limited results, Blaine was amazed when a six-month exploration of Iyengar yoga caused her knee pain to disappear completely. Spurred by curiosity and gratitude to find out how this was possible, Blaine made a thorough investigation into recovering from knee pain through the practice of yoga. Her discoveries are revealed in Yoga for Healthy Knees. The book features 17 unique yoga poses tuned specifically to knee health and a complete index and covers knee problems such as hyperextension and tightness, features an extensive section on the best yoga poses for knee pain prevention and rehabilitation, and outlines a daily knee maintenance plan. Blaine explains how to incorporate use of simple props like blankets and towels, and shares safety guidelines that encourage readers to establish good habits, making healthy knees a part of everyday life. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (18)

After Knee Replacement Surgery
I continue to do yoga after right knee replacement surgery. Does this book give you tips on how to protect your knee after surgery? Does it give suggestions on modifying poses?

The asanas in this book are helping my knees
I have been doing these exercises on a regular basis and my knees are feeling better every day.It is a great supplement to my beginning yoga practice and is helping me to not be discouraged when my knees ask me to stop trying. I just switch to some of the exercises in this book and they help me get back to it.

Highly Recommended
Great book, the exercises started improving a chronic knee and hip joint pain and weakness after just one session, I guess you could say that is some kind of minor miracle. What is really cool about this book is that there is a very limited number of exercises, so you are not overwhelmed and can easily get started and stay practicing. And, though this book is focused on the knees, I found it really good for limbering up my hip joints and back as well.

I didn't know this prior to purchasing, but the author uses the Iyengar method, which focuses on alignment and correct positioning. I studied with a teacher who used this method way back in the day before yoga went mainstream, and Iyengar still is, to me, in the spirit of true hatha yoga.

Good Information
I have been looking for information on how to keep my joints healthy, especially knees, since so many of my friend have been having problems.This book really provided some good information that I will be putting into practice.

Highly recommended for healing aging knees!
Yoga for Healthy Knees is at the top of the list of books I recommend for teaching yoga to people over 50. I always show this book to my students of any age with knee problems. The author is an expert who overcame her own knee pain using yoga. This is a clear, well organized book with a positive, uplifting attitude!

-- Suza Francina, author, The New Yoga for People Over 50, The New Yoga for Healthy Aging and other books for people at midlife and older. ... Read more

Product Description
Now beginners, experts, and teachers alike can make rejuvenating meditations part of daily life with this beautifully illustrated deck of fifty yoga poses and meditations. Each easy-to-use card gives detailed instructions, benefits, and an affirmation. If you're short on time, you can pick just a single card, or for a more guided experience, follow one of the sequences provided. Create an exercise routine that focuses on your specific needs. In the park or at the office, these portable cards are perfect for stress relief, promoting strength and energy, and relaxation--anytime, anywhere. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (28)

Fun for Newbies.
I first purchased both The Yoga Deck and The Yoga Deck II about 8 years ago at a Crate & Barrel of all places.
It was my first introduction to Yoga, something that I could do at my own pace, on my own time and in my own space. It's great to be able to go through the cards, find the ones you like the most and create your very own specialised deck of Yoga stretches.

It can be a little clunky sometimes, trying to stretch, completing the stretch and then having to shuffle some cards around to get to the next move. If you have them lying on a carpet, sometimes they can get a little slip and slide-y. But this is only a problem until you've selected a routine that works for you and have it memorized, eliminating the cards altogether.

**I came to Amazon to try and replace my original Yoga Deck, as I had mistakenly loaned it to a friend; upon return 25 cards (half of the deck) was missing. -
I refuse to purchase the cards from either Amazon or any of the independent sellers, though. They're insanely overpriced. The cheapest listed is $11.07, and most of the "used" items are described as a books. I don't trust a seller who can't properly describe their item. The Yoga Decks are PRE-priced by their distributor for $14.95. So, in my opinion, anyone who is charging more than $14.95 is completely ripping you off for a deck of cards almost 10 years old.**

To be honest, I grew tired of these cards quickly. I find it to be more beneficial to find a good book or video instruction and follow along with that. It's easier to listen and stretch than it is to read and stretch... successfully. - But a fun deck to own regardless.

Slow going...
Pros: Nice box, looks neat, clean, easy to stack. Few exercise accessories needed.

Cons: Wordy, & it's in a tiny font size. Many/All strange-new exercises makes it difficult to follow along & get your exercise session done. I spent 5 minutes to learn and do each exercise, and you never really master each exercise. You try and try, but either your breathing isn't right, or you'll find something to make you stop & read each card each time you do that card's exercise. This is not the way to keep your body warm and your heart rate up during an exercise session.

Exactly what I expected
I purchased this deck for at home practice.I have yoga dvds and take occasional classes at my gym... but I wanted to begin to have a bit more control over my own practice and to learn to move without the dvd.The cards are beautiful.On one side they illustrate the pose and on the other they give a step-by-step how to.I think if someone has a basic (or better) familiarity with yoga they can use these.In addition to at home use I plan to take them with me when I travel.

Nice quality card stock.Helpful images.Good variety.A list of recommended sequences (e.g. for more energy, for increased flexibility).

The Perfect Stocking Stuffer For Busy People
I love fitting yoga into my day but with a demanding schedule, I can't always make it to classes and DVDs bore me to tears. But this deck is perfect for those exact reasons. You can fit 5-500 minutes of yoga wherever you want and exactly according ot your needs.

The best part is you to customize your practice based on your physical needs - each card states why the given position is beneficial. For examples 'promotes elimination' or 'helps neck stiffness' or 'tones lower body' or 'stimulates thyroid' or 'improves complexion' ... this way every night depending on my needs I can customize my chosen positions.

GREAT buy. I'm buying it as a stocking stuffer for family.

Great yoga set
I am a total novice at Yoga, but have been active all my life in various sports.My problem is that I am not flexible at all and have had back problems and issues with my hamstrings.Yoga has really helped me with this.I have strengthened my back musles and gained flexibility.Where this product comes in is that it can be an ever changing workout.I have never taken a yoga class but have several instructional dvd's that I do occasionally.For some reason I like these cards a lot better than my dvd's and I do them much more often than the dvd's.The little booklet that comes with the deck has a few suggestions for workouts and I use the back one the most.I love being able to change it up and try new things and do things in different order.You can't do this with a dvd and they seem to get monotonous after awhile in my opinion.These cards are durable and I place them right next to my mat while doing the yoga.I enjoy them immensely and feel that without them I would just have my yoga mat sitting in the closet.Your workout can be as long or as short as your time allows and that is a great part about it.The only thing I might like to have changed is that one side of the cards is so dark that it would be a little bit easier to read if the background wasn't so dark.I know that is a small thing and that is why I still give it 5 stars.Good addition to anyones workout!! ... Read more

Product Description
Yoga Sutras of Patanjali is a concise English rendering of the classical text on yoga and meditation.Patanjali is to Yoga what Buddha is to Buddhism.His sutras--defined literally as "the path to transcendence"--are a means to self-realization.

With over thirty years of spiritual yoga practice, Mukunda Stiles has written a translation and interpretation which is precise and insightful.He provides a clear understanding of Patanjali's works for students of yoga, Eastern philosophy, or psychology, who want to use the sutras for spiritual practice or further study.Also inlcuded is a complete Sanskrit/Englishe keyword section. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (10)

Yoga Sutras of Patanjali: With Great Respect and Love
All respect for ones path and their own interpretation. Please people stop writing bastardized versions of the ancient texts. This book is just that. Most the meaning is lost and this is what is being taught. A very beautifully poetic version that has little value or meaning of the depth of the original text. If you want a real translation please check out Swami Hariharananda Aranya's translation. If you can understand the deep version keep reading it over and over and practice. It comes with practice not watering it down for the masses. The depth of info is only meant for those that can transcend and embody. Tapas, tapas, tapas.

Hari Om

best yoga sutras so far...
Pure and simple Truth, this book is not cluttered with the author's opinions.You get to decide for yourself.

A good translation
I was happy with this purchase. I appreciate Mukunda's explanations and style. A book to read over and over.

terrific book to find your inner yogi
This book was an assignment in my yoga teacher training at Prana Power Yoga studio.I'm so glad I read it because it'll be a book I'll bring with me to the grave. I love it!

Concise and readable
This is a concise reading of the yoga sutras that offers practitioners of all levels information, insight, and inspiration. Many thanks to Mukunda for his efforts. ... Read more

Product Description
The yogas of dream and sleep are used in the Bon and Buddhist traditions of Tibet to attain liberation. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (35)

excellent book!
very intensive and descriptive! because it covers both buddhism and lucid dreaming the first half of the book is a condensation of buddhism and does a great job of laying it all out quickly and neatly! the stuff on dreaming is so cool and unique, it really delves into the spirituality of dreaming as well as introducing you to the folklore of bon/buddhist dream tradition. read it, love it! just know that waking up every two hours will not help you remember dreams. wake up 4.5, 6 and 7.5 hours after you go to sleep instead because this is when you are likely to be in REM sleep (dreaming) and therefore much more likely to remember your dreams;) the author says to wake up for three different periods at two hour intervals so you just switch it to what i just said and still do everything else he says the same. good stuff.

Disappointingly Theoretical
I've tried to use this book on and off for nearly seven years now. Its concepts are great and everything appears to be laid out. However, I've never gotten it to work at all. Perhaps it's something about me, or perhaps it has to do with the book. I can really only say that I'd probably have more luck with something more substantial and rougher going. The exercises were way too spaced out between various bits of theory for me, so that I found myself skipping around a lot through the milky masses of Buddhist concepts, trying to find actual traditions. If I were writing the book myself, I'd divide it into two parts, theory and practice. However, if that were done with this book, the theory section would take up 85%-95% of the book.

I think that teaching yourself lucid dreaming is probably only accessible to people who are highly visual in the first place, or who have cultivated their visual sense, like Hervey de Saint-Denis. Westerners who study Chinese for many years tend to be able to maintain awareness while experiencing hypnagogic states, in my experience. So, I can't wait until someone translates the Saint-Denis book or reissues the French ed. in full.

I gave the book 2 stars because it still contains some practical tradition. This includes sleeping posture, visualization, and breathing exercises. The number of pages used for writing about these things is equivalent to a short essay.

At last - the real deal on dreaming.
Finally a book on dreaming by someone who actually knows the true nature of the mind. And you don't have to be a buddhist, or wear the cultural clothing to take advantage of the practical advice contained within its pages. There is an excellent glossary for the more technical terms, though I have to say that the guide to Tibetan pronunciation left me more mystified than illuminated. (For example: Dzogchen - Tib., rdzogs chen). How the heck is rdzogs chen any clearer than Dzogchen?

If you read carefully, you will discover a wonderful road map for the awakening mind.

A tid-bit that has already worked wonders for me is the technique of blowing blue smoke up the central channel to dispel laxity. Here's the full quote:

"The second obstacle is laxity. It manifests as an internal laziness, a lack of internal strength and clarity. When you are lax in practice, you drift around, clouded and perhaps comfortable, even while attending to the object of attention. The antidote is to visualize blue smoke slowly drifting up the central channel from the junction of the three channels (a few inches below the navel and in the center of the body) to the throat. Do not get hung up thinking of physics - where the smoke goes and if it collects and that kind of thing. Just visualize the smoke slowly moving up the central channel, as if it were already a dream."

Highly, highly recommended.

The Singing Stones (Volume 1)

Brilliant Dharma Book
Brilliant, clear, instructions on an important practice, staying awake, day or night. Recognizing your dreams as dreams.

Awesome Book!
This book is excellent, and rich with great wisdom and knowledge. It just doesn't teach you about mastering dreams, but also mastering sleep. It is both dream and sleep yoga in one book.

This book also help clear up some things on the belief of deity yoga, but taught me a little more on karma that other Buddhism books left out. Not I can see the misunderstanding of how many see karma as something one carries, not as a force that is like a boomerang. They mixed karmic trace for karma.That is why many need stop thinking, and meditate for understanding. As for the dream yoga, the teachings are most simple to folow and remeber, it is one's practice that needs effort. For those who do not understand true spiritul being and cosmic reality, such teachings may seem weird. For those who seek truth and true spiritual being, these teachings may make much sense, clear as crystal reflecting sun rays. This book teaches how to master dreams by starting seeing this reality as a dream, since this world is an illusion. While in sleep yoga, it teaches on how to master sleep, and prepair one for enlighten when one times come to depart from this realm in death. Sleep yoga is given as opptional teaching, on can just practice dream yoga. But it is best to learn both, so one can prepair to know what to do when death comes, if one does not want to be earthbound or reborn else where, if not as human in this realm.

... Read more

Product Description
The author of Yoga Journal's most-read column presents the first holistic guide to yoga

A user-friendly guide illustrated with 240 two-color photographs and illustrations, Yoga Mind, Body & Spirit sets forth the tenets of this gentle yet rigorous exercise as no other book has. Integrating the teachings of every tradition, internationally renowned yoga instructor Donna Farhi reveals how yoga enhances the connections between the mind, body, and spirit. She outlines the seven simple movement principles that underlie all human motion and provides exercises to help readers understand how they can achieve all yoga postures. She also discusses the ten ethical precepts that are the foundation of all yoga teachings and explains how to incorporate them into a spiritually and emotionally rewarding inner practice.

At the heart of Yoga Mind, Body & Spirit are more than seventy-five yoga asanas or postures. Each is one pictured and described in detail, and they are arranged into related groups--including standing postures, sitting postures, arm balances, and breathing practices--or easy reference. A selection of yoga practices of varying lengths and levels of difficulty provides challenges and inspiration for beginner, intermediate, and advanced students.

A huge resurgence of interest in yoga is sweeping the country. With its broad scope and holistic approach, Yoga Mind, Body & Spirit is the ideal book for today's mainstream audience.
Amazon.com Review
As the physical practice of yoga has become popular in theWest, many of the spiritual aspects have been lost. There is much moreto yoga than reducing stress, increasing flexibility, looking great,and remaining youthful. Yoga is an ancient, integrated system designedto educate and unite body, mind, and spirit and teach the practitionerhow to be present both on and off the mat.

In Yoga Mind, Body &Spirit: A Return to Wholeness, Donna Farhi, Yoga Journalcolumnist, author of The Breathing Book,and internationally recognized yoga teacher, shows yoga students ofall levels and traditions how to use yoga as spiritual practice and avehicle to connect body and mind.

Most of Yoga Mind, Body &Spirit is devoted to the asanas (yoga postures) and thepractices of breathing and meditation. More than 240 photographs andline drawings show how to do the various poses and exercises. Posturesare accompanied by benefits and effects, cautions, tips, and prenatalsuggestions. Numerous inquiries are spread through the text to helpthe reader explore the body-mind-spirit connection. Farhi alsoexplains what yoga is, summarizes the living principles (wisecharacteristics and codes for living soulfully), discusses the sevenmoving principles of yoga, and explores the body's organ systems. Ifyou are ready to take your yoga practice to the next level, YogaMind, Body & Spirit is an excellent guide to help you connect witheverything yoga has to offer. --Ellen Albertson ... Read more

Customer Reviews (22)

A MUST READ
This work is GOOD, so for those that are looking at Donna Farhi's books, READ IT. it's for anyone that has missing the way to breath fully / anyone that stress has overtaken. I am greatfull to have foundt and read this book. (I will be re-read many times).

Great book, but...
Great book on yoga, especially the beginning section which offers a detailed description of the many elements of yoga.But...why so many pictures of poses with the yogi naked?Makes it not so great for family use.I wanted to share this with my kids, but clearly that won't happen.Full front nudity, of all kinds.These are drawings, not photographs, but nothing is left to the imagination.Let the buyer beware.

Opening into Yoga Practice or Teaching
This book by Donna Farhi is a beautifully illustrated introduction and explanation of a yogic practice. She uses drawings that really speak to the inner dynamics of self-discovery -- reducing the "I will never look like that" feelings, and giving the visual learner a quick and very expressive way to understand without reading everything. On the other hand her words are clear and descriptive, emotional yet not preachy. Her contraindications and suggestions about asana work are useful.The main thing, though, that I love about this book is that it is so generous and loving, so open and heartfelt, while it is totally instructional and accessible. Not hard to digest, not hard to integrate into any and all other yogic study.I teach yoga, and often refer my students and fellow teachers to this book to help refresh and invigorate their deep journey along with the physical practice.

A life changing book!
This is really a great book offering many insights into how to live your yoga practice on a daily basis. It is easy to read, insightful and inspirational.I have already recommended this to many friends.

This gal really knows her yoga.
This well written book talks about the alignment principles of yoga from the inside out.Then Ms. Fahri takes that information and applys it to the poses, explaining what should be happening in the body to maximize the benefit of the pose from a whole body perspective.Once you have read it you will never think of yoga the same again.I highly recommend this book for teachers and serious students.One of the best I've ever read!!! ... Read more

Product Description
An anniversary edition of "BKS Iyengar Yoga: The Path to Holistic Health", to celebrate BKS Iyengar's 90th birthday in January 2008. This book contains 30 pages of all-new material and features an introductory celebration of BKS Iyengar's life and teachings. The design of the book has also been refreshed and updated. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (44)

B.K.S. Iyengar: The Path to Holistic Health
I ordered two books, this book being one of the two. I received a package with only one book. The other book I ordered was not in the package. The company Hungybookworm says I received my order because they have proof that it was delivered. I stil have not received my other book that they charged me for. They should take care of their customers and they're not. I'd like my money back or my book.B.K.S Iyengar Yoga the Path to Holistic Health

Beautiful Book
This book is a beautiful portrayal of Iyengar Yoga ......what it is, how it developed, associated philosophy, and clear instruction.Nearly half of the book is devoted to yoga asana routines that address a myriad of physical ailments.Best of all it has beautifully and perfectly photographed asanas showing each pose from every angle and how to get into and out of each. By advocating the use of props ( bolsters, blocks, straps, etc. )it makes it possible for even the beginner to experience each pose. The pictures are accompanied by written instruction and tips for getting the most out of each.

I highly recommend this book.Other yoga books show you the final pose but omit proper direction how to achieve it or the underlying purpose --- to guide you how to put the proper effort ( mental as well as physical ) into each asana so as to realize benefit regardless of your degree of yoga practice.

Great book!
This book is amazing! I am in yoga teacher training currently and this book was a recommended reading book from my teachers. It is a wonderful resource for anyone practicing yoga.The descriptions are clear and concise and the photos are so helpful. I sometimes practice with the book open to a section on the floor next to my mat to guide me. Ver informative and very educational.

Barely OK; Certainly Not Great
B.K.S Iyengar Yoga the Path to Holistic Health was somewhat helpful to purchase when first learning Iyengar. However, I really am not thrilled with it, because I want to know more about poses and practice. Those interested in a wider context (Iyengar's take on the history of yoga, nutrition, and alternative therapies for ailments), will find this to be a valuable resource.

WASTED SPACE
The book emphasizes the health benefits of Iyengar yoga at the expense of postures and practice. The first 45 pages were almost completely unnecessary background on yoga. There is a whole chapter for stress. Pages 238-383 are all about practice tailored to relieve different ailments.

CAUTIONS AND BENEFITS SEEM EXCESSIVE
Cautions and benefits are provided for each pose. This results in some rather ludicrous situations. The entire chapter on stress becomes useless for those suffering from migraines or stress headaches, because most poses caution people suffering from those conditions not to do them. Not only does this presumably prevent them from finding relief, but it makes a large chunk of Iyengar poses inaccessible to them. Oh, the irony!

I find most of the claims to be dubious at best. I've never had problems with the poses that I am cautioned against doing. It doesn't help that the book gives no explanation to back up its assertions. Of course, once you start to question the health claims (can anorexia be treated by a sequence of poses?), you lose interest in the whole premise of the book--a path to holistic health.

POSES
To me, this ought to be the heart of the book. I wish pages 41 to 153 could have been published separately in a spiral-bound book that would stay open while I practice. There are a lot of pictures accompanied by excellent explanations. The arrangement of the pictures, typically in a circle covering two pages, does not help much to elucidate the poses or the explanations. Although, it is an innovative 360 degree approach to showing the poses. If there had been close-ups instead, then it would have been more helpful.

CONCLUSION
If you are planning to purchase this as a desk reference, or if you are a teacher, then this might rate 4 or 5 stars. If you are hoping to use this while you practice, though, and you are a beginner (like I was when I bought it), then this is not so great. Compared to books for other yoga styles that I have seen, it is definitely lacking. I have given it three stars, because the explanations for the poses are worth the price of the book.

Excellent
This book is amazing.I borrowed the older version from a friend and was excited to see the newer version.It is just as great as the old but with a nice added section about Iyengar himself.This is a great book.I especially love the section for yoga for ailments.I use it often. ... Read more

Product Description
This is the first comprehensive guide for yoga teachers and yoga students providing all the details on how to adjust or assist someone while they are performing a yoga posture. With yoga's recent worldwide popularity, this book is invaluable to millions who teach or practice yoga. The book goes beyond just the physical aspects of yoga - it deals honestly with some touchy matters that affect yoga teachers and students alike. The book's clear instructions and generous supply of photos make it easy for yoga teachers to learn how to adjust or assist their students. Yoga students can use this book to enhance their personal practice by working with a partner. Yoga Posture Adjustments and Assisting: An Insightful Guide for Yoga Teachers and Students demonstrates and explains adjusting techniques for over 65 postures and contains over 200 photos. You can learn:

• How to adjust or assist someone who is performing a yoga posture
• How to perform the yoga adjustments using effective body mechanics and leverage
• Multiple variations for adjusting a posture
• How to use yoga props
• Verbal cues to help your yoga student or partner
• Ways to accommodate different body types
• How to safely take your students deeper into the yoga postures

The book also features a thought provoking section on how to navigate the physical, mental, and emotional challenges of being a yoga teacher or yoga student. It candidly discusses topics such as:

• Dealing with difficult emotions before, during, or after class
• Coping with thoughts that can surface during yoga class or home practice
• Managing expectations and judgments about ourselves, our teachers, and our students
• Dealing with unusual situations in the classroom
• Handling competitiveness, jealousy, nervousness

The international yoga community will greatly benefit from this book. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (42)

A must for all Yoga teachers!
As a yoga teacher, this is a great book to have in your collection. The pictures are clear and the instructions are easy to follow. I find that it's very important to assist my students with hands-on adjustments and there are not many books out there that illustrate the assists the way Stephanie's book does. Of course some adjustments can be dangerous, but only if the teacher is rough and doesn't listen to the student's body. The adjustments that are given in this book are safe and effective as long as they are conducted properly. I highly reccomend this book!

insightful
i bought the book with the intention of taking a workshop.i have dozens of yoga books (as most teachers do) i really love this book, well written (extremely easy to understand the dynamics of the assistance in the postures) i eventually did do the workshop, and i am even more of a fan! Stephanie is so very enthusiastic about sharing her knowledge, you come away with the understanding she is extremely knowledgeable, warm, and that she wants you to be comfortable in finding ways to touch your students inadjustments that verbal ques just can't express. i feel Yoga Posture Adjustments and Assisting: An Insightful Guide for Yoga Teachers and Students, is as easy to understand as the title states.a clear no nonsense guide you will refer to often.

Love this book!
As a new Yoga teacher, I am so grateful for this book. It has helped me continue my education and deepen my understanding about adjusting and assisting students. It is full of excellent advise and alignment cuing. The photographs and descriptions make everything crystal clear. This author seems to be able to anticipate all questions and information that teachers and students alike have been wanting to ask. This book is a must have for anyone building a Yoga library. I have learned so much about adjusting and assisting from this book, more than in my teacher training.

Not worth the money
There are so many good books on yoga postures and alignment - but this is not one of them.The adjustments are way too dramatic and could do more harm than good.Advice for more gentle adjustments is not given nor is advice about getting into and out of the pose.Definitely not worth it!!!!!!!!!

A dangerous book
This is not yoga and is definitely a dangerous book.Yoga is about respecting the limitations of the body and not succumbing to the egoistic concept of perfecting a pose.The difference between yoga asana and exercise is AWARENESS.This awareness is cultivated from within and not from someone pulling or pushing you into a pose.I know that many teachers are out there doing these sorts of adjustments and that students may request them, but this is not classical yoga and may account for the alarming increase in the rate of yoga practitioners being injured. ... Read more

Product Description
Yoga is fun! Get kids bending, breathing, and stretching with The Kids’ Yoga Deck. Playful poses such as Cat, Flower, Airplane, and Gorilla—as well as partner poses that can be performed with friends—teach kids the basics of yoga. Easy enough for children to do on their own, The Kids’ Yoga Deck engages bodies and minds to help youngsters build strength, flexibility, balance, and mental focus. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (18)

I Love These Cards!
I love these cards! I am a Behavioral Health Professional and I work with children who sruggle with appropriate behavior. These cards have been the most wonderful activity I have discovered for relaxation, anger management and just plain fun. The kids I work with love to match the poses on the front of the cards, respond well to the instructions on the back of the cards and have engaged in the suggested activities with enthusiasm. Some children who were reluctant to engage in treatment now greet me with requests to do yoga. The Kids' Yoga Deck is great for all ages.

Great Basic Yoga Poses
I am an OT in a school for developmentally disabled children, and this is a good tool for me to use when students need some movement.I especially like the picture of each stretch or pose; I can show it to my group and they do a good job of imitating it.The cards are on heavy stock and come in a nice easy-to-transport box.I highly recommend this product.

Nicely Organized
I like how the deck is organized by color and the suggestions for extended discussion/use of the pose is nice. The illustrations could be a little more clear.

OK
The deck is just OK.My youngest grandchildren (4,4 & 6) lost interest rather quickly.

Good Buy
I bought these for my niece and nephew.The activities are great but I wish the pictures were of real children.My niece and nephew do, too. ... Read more

Product Description
Provides simple instruction and demonstrative illustrations to introduce a technique that combines hatha yoga and meditation in order to slow the aging process, decrease stress, promote creativity, and improve mental and physical health. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (64)

A Beautiful Soul
I actually haven't read this book, but have been taking yoga classes from the man himself here in Santa Monica, and just realized this book exists.. All I want to add is that Erich is the most radiant happy being I think I've ever met. Such a beautiful soul, with such a gentle and beautiful practice. Erich is most definitely the real deal! I look forward to reading this. I know already that he has much to teach!

Great book
I had to purchase this book for a yoga class at school. So far I have thoroughly enjoyed it. I really love the breathing and meditation techniques. Yoga is a life changing physical mental and spiritual process which I will continue to practice here on out... thanks!

Excellent of course
I as always got great service from amazon!Yoga: The Spirit and Practice of Moving into StillnessThis book is great for taking yoga out of the gym & into something meaningful & not just another sweaty activity.

Excellent Yoga Book
Erich has created an amazing text full of informative poses and concepts.He masterfully describes how to enter poses and keep your self aligned properly. Also the benefits of each pose are listed so you can determine what poses to use for certain issues.My favorite part of the book are chapters 7 and 8.In chapter 7he describes in my opinion the "real essence" of yoga by elaborating on how you get the energy to flow in the poses. This is the real aim in that you are trying to get a release. If you follow his lead here you will discover it for yourself. He follows in chapter 8 with the concepts of the edge and how to protect yourself once you have established the pose.

I highly recommend this book for any yoga teacher or student.

This is a classic text!

Great book on yoga!
My yoga instructor often referred to this book and I thought I would buy it. I'm glad I did! Erich Schiffman goes into great detail about the breath, meditation and especially the benefits of each asana. He explains in detail how to do the different poses and even has a sample home practice for an overall workout. I recommend this book for anyone, whether new to yoga or a seasoned practioner. ... Read more

Product Description
Acclaimed yoga and meditation teacher Sarah Powers is known and loved for her unique approach—Insight Yoga—which combines traditional yoga with the meridians of Chinese medicine, as well as Buddhist meditation. Using Yin (passive) and Yang (dynamic) poses, she demonstrates a series of different yoga sequences that bring benefit to organs, muscles, joints, and tendons—as well as the mind. She also provides a foundational explanation of traditional Chinese medicine theory and mindfulness meditation instruction. Sarah Powers brings us on an inspiring journey inward, and shows the path for cultivating a lasting relationship with yoga that cultivates and strengthens our physical well-being and our mental and emotional clarity. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (23)

So much more than yoga
Fantastic book, which includes insights into so much more than yoga: meditation, energy channels, Buddhism and more. I love this book, it has enriched my daily yoga practice.

Wonderful resource
I have had the good fortune to study with Sarah Powers, in the teacher training programs at Kripalu, a total of 3 weeks and the books is wonderful reflection of Sarah. Of course nothing replaces being with a teacher, and I have 3 notebooks filled with Sarah's words of wisdom from my trainings with her. But when I need some additional inspiration or reminders, this book is close at hand. MInsight Yogay main teaching now is yin yoga, a much needed yoga to address the connective tissues that start to become a significant issue once over age 40. Great book, buy it, and savor Sarah's insights. Namaste, Grateful student, Tina RamsdenInsight Yoga

Insight Yoga
As a Yoga Instructor, I found this book refreshingly easy to read and understand, not to mention the accuracy of the information presented.The uses of Yoga as therepy and as an adjunct to other forms of Yoga is presented with pictures and helpful guidelines for even the beginner.I would highly recommend this book for any person interested in Yoga whether a beginner orbeyond.

I love the blending!
Sarah Powers melds together pieces of philosophies and practices that she finds to be insightful.I love the blending as this is what I've naturally been drawn to doing throughout the course of my life, and I am more inclined to read a book that is not so strict regarding lineage or a "set way" of practicing.

She clearly explains the theories behind Yin Yoga, just as marvelously as Paul Grilley & Bernie Clark do-- but then she also provides excellent, though brief, info on pranayama and Buddhist meditation practices.What Powers ends up providing us readers is a multi-layered practice that incorporates many aspects of yoga: asana (yin & yang), pranayama, & meditation.Practiced in this way, daily, we can cultivate mindfulness, strength, and fluidity.

I've been recommending this book to all of my fellow yoga teachers!

Insight Yoga Book
Insight Yoga is a wonderful fusion of Yin/Yang Yoga, Traditional Chinese Medicine and Buddhist philosophy. Many detailed photos of specific poses to balance and focus on each meridian. Overlay of meridians on photo of body, including internal branches help you to understand how the pose affects that meridian. Interesting insights on each organ and it's related meridian in the body. Modifications given for each pose make it available to students of Yoga of all levels. ... Read more

Product Description
Ilusstrations, Dimensions: 7.76 x 5.10 x .98 inches

Founder of the Iyengar Institute in India, B.K.S. Iyengar utilizes his over fifty years of yogic teaching experience to translate and comment on a central text, PatanjaliÂ’s Yoga Sutras. Dating back to the first half of the first millennium, this collection of 196 aphorisms defines the path to spiritual liberation through the practice of yoga. Iyengar translates this ancient Sanskrit text for the modern day yogi, providing a thorough yet accessible breakdown of each aphorism, capturing the essence of its teaching. Charts and diagrams map out the path toward spiritual evolution and explain the relationship between the different aspects of yogic principles for living and for eventually attaining Kaivalya (freedom). IyengarÂ’s translation came about from his desire to address the need for the practical application of the spiritual text. Though not recommended as a substitute for a teacher, this pragmatic exploration is an invaluable tool for dedicated yoga practitioners who wish to deepen their spiritual exploration as well as their physical practice. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (19)

Light?
I read about 15 translations of the Yoga Sutras. This one is surely not the best one among them ... to say the least ... It is overstuffed with words and lacks logic in many ways. There are passages in it wich are completely devoid of spiritual insight. It even doesn't invite the reader to think for himself and to contemplate. I was extremely disappointed. The author is very old now and surely one of the best worldwide when it comes to the subject of asanas. But the precision one can find in Iyengar asanas can nowhere be found in this treatise.

Yoga Student Must Read
I am an Iyengar Yoga student and the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali was chosen for our book club's first subject of discussion.Everyone in the group was free to choose whatever version they wanted. I read 2 versions and found this one to be the most user friendly, as did many of the other students.The sutras are stated and then a clear explanation is given for each.If you are a student of Yoga, please read this and understand the reason you are practicing.It will change everything.

Light on the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali B.K.S. Iyengar
Iyengar is reveered by students of yoga trained by his method, available in Light on Yoga and Light on Pranayama, practical guides that are lived with over the years. No one knows how traditional his methods are because like all else our understanding changes over time. Anyone familiar with Patangali's Yoga Sutras will know how concentrated his teaching is, or rather will appreciate that the sanskrit he taught in was a precision instrument difficult to explain to English speakers with a vast and shifting vocabulary. Patangali was not only a great exponent of yoga but also of sanskrit, the most ancient language still known, precursor of Greek, Latin and most other languages. Patanjali considered the sanskrit word for anything was sound equivalence of the thing itself. A different world, a world of sound and silence it is difficult to comprehend, to enter.
Yet Iyengar has entered and lived in that world most of his life.
Moreover he has a use of English that enables him to take us along with him. This is not a book to read in a day or two, which would scarcely be possible and certianly totally indigestable. It is a book to get to know in silent study, preferably a page or two a day whilst sitting in one's favourite asana. Everything Iyengar wants to convey and through him Patangali wants to convey is already part of your makeup as a person living in the world of nature around you. The Yoga Sutras were compiled to allow you to be yourself by getting to know yourself thoroughly. Although an alarming prospect at first sight it need not be under such expert guidance.
It is hardly conceivable that this book would mean anything at all to anyone who has not even begun yoga training. On the other hand anyone wishing to embark on exploration and improvement of self could read this book alongside Light on Yoga, learning simple yoga at first but gaining early insight into the subject from the Yoga Sutras.
Existential Buddhists will need to be tollerant of Iyengar's Hindu worship of idols (eye catching cover illustrations only) and translation of Isvara as God, these are superficial practices he, like Ghandi, adopted as their native contemporary Indian culture, harmless enough, they do not detract from brilliant lives and expositions of perennial philosophy.
Great soul, great book, used as intended it is the best purchase you are ever likely to make.

Light on the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali
This book was easy to understand and really offered an excellent explanation of the Yoga Sutras.

not the same edition I received
As you can see from the picture, this edition is not the one I received. That was a disappointment. ... Read more

Product Description
Ashtanga Yoga: Practice and Philosophy is the first book of its kind,presenting a comprehensive guide to all eight limbs of Ashtanga VinyasaYoga. Join author Gregor Maehle, a seasoned yogi and compassionateteacher, as he guides you through the history and lineage of yoga; thefundamentals of breath, bandhas (energy locks within the body), drishti(the focal point of the gaze), and vinyasa (sequential movement); adetailed breakdown of the asanas of the Ashtanga Primary Series,following the traditional vinyasa count; a lively and authenticrendering of the complete Yoga Sutra of Patanjali, yoga's ancient sacredtext; and a glossary of yoga terminology.

In the asana section, Maehle describes each posture with clear,meticulous instructions, photographs, anatomical illustrations, andpractical tips. Information on the mythological background and yogiccontext of specific postures brings further insight to the practice. Inthe philosophy section, Maehle illuminates the Yoga Sutra using themajor ancient commentaries as well as his own insights.

This volume makes the entire path of Ashtanga Yoga accessible to modernpractitioners. Both practical guide and spiritual treatise, AshtangaYoga is an excellent introduction to the eight limbs of yoga and aninvaluable resource for any yoga teacher or practitioner. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (14)

Good Transaction
I bought this for a course. It is exactly what I needed. No problems. Thank you.

INTERESTING AND DYNAMIC
Hellow, I purchased ASHTANGA YOGA and I really loved the introduction and philosophy of the book!!! The pictures are also a great issue because they show you how the asanas really work out your body!!! This is a good detailed-book for everyone to practice yoga.

Comprehensive
Delivers as titled: a very comprehensive look at each of the movements and positions in ashtanga yoga with in-depth commentary on the yoga sutras. An outstanding book.

Superb introduction to ashtanga
There are many excellent books on Ashtanga, but this is the one I would recommend first.It is also the only book that gives the very best and clearest commentary on Patanjali's sutras -- which are the heart of ashtanga. While other books focus primarily on asanas (the sequence, sometimes with good pictures but relatively little explanation), Gregor gets into the essence of the series, with insightful instruction.I would strongly recommend this is a first and foremost reference, to be returned to again and again as your practice progresses.

Gem of a book
there are books that you read and other you treasure. This one is definitely in the latter category. Every time I read it, I get 100% of the "1% theory" aspect of my practice. This book has it all - the philosophy, the anatomy and of course, the practice. Thank you for a wonderful gift that will last a lifetime ... Read more

Product Description
In Teaching Yoga, Donna Farhi addresses the growing need within the Yoga community to establish professional standards of conduct and training for Yoga teachers. Drawing on decades of teaching experience, she explores with compassion and clarity the complex questions that lie at the heart of the teacher-student relationship:

• As a Yoga teacher, how do you respond to the many roles you are called upon to play--health care adviser; personal confidante; spiritual mentor; physical therapist?

• How can you create healthy boundaries for yourself and your students, and maintain a safe, supportive environment?

• How do you deal with a difficult student or a question of ethics?

Woven throughout Teaching Yoga are examples from Donna's personal experience that she calles "Ethical Inquiries." In the Teacher Workbook section, she presents additional Ethical Inquiries that are both practical and provocative, and invites you to discuss these issues with your friends and colleagues. This section alone makes the book ideal for teacher training!

Incudes a bonus CD: "Holding a Heart in Our Hands," which is a keynote address Donna gave a Yoga Spirit 2002, a Yoga conference held in Lake George, New York. (74:20 minutes) ... Read more

Customer Reviews (13)

mean spirited gender bias
I am in my sixties, married, a retired professor and aspiring yoga instructor.This book is gender biased, portraying an inaccurate and unfair vision of heterosexual yoga instructors.Donna Farhi describes the yoga community as a sick and sad cauldron of sexual abuse where male instructors "infantilize" female students and abuse them without love or mercy.The book denigrates both sexes; male instructors are evil predators "usually married" and women are, not evil, just stupid and weak, offering themselves up in droves to evil manipulating low-down dirty fast talking yoga instructors.The author seems oddly fixated on the touching of genitalia, mentioning it at least three times, and also seems oddly focused on the wearing of "inappropriate", "tight" male attire.She uses the book to blatantly "out" an accused transgressor by telling us on pg 21 the exact words the man uses to describe himself in his advertising.Unethical?. Mean? Yes, and possibly slanderous. Farhi even suggest that yoga teachers who engage in romantic relationships with students, no matter how willing or adult, be imprisoned.I believe this author has deep personal issues that have sullied her attitude toward the world of yoga and the good human beings who practice it.This book is primarily an enunciation of the authors personal code of ethics and has little or nothing to do with "Teaching Yoga".

Great info re: ethics of teaching yoga
This book provided some wonderful insights and examples regarding things to consider when engaged in a student-teacher relationship while teaching yoga.Great food for thought!

Great for anyone
This book details the teacher-student relationship, and could be used by teachers of dance and many other activities in addition to yoga.It could also be interesting for students, to better understand the many and complex ways students and teachers interact.

A Teacher's Guidebook!
This book speaks directly to the heart and soul of the yoga teacher.Where else can you find such honest anecdotes about the ethics involved with teaching yoga? This is an invaluable addition to a well-rounded yoga library.

Rather disappointing.
I LOVED Donna Farhi's book "Yoga Mind, Body and Spirit" (which should be required reading for all yoga professionals) and was hoping for another book just like it -- only this time focusing on how to be a better yoga instructor.Unfortunately, I was really disappointed in this book.Since this book is called "Teaching Yoga", I thought that it would be about TEACHING YOGA, not 150 pages on ethics.Perhaps a better and more truthful title would have been "The Ethics of Teaching Yoga."If you are looking for a book on yoga and ethics, then this is the book for you.However, if you are looking for a book on the process or the act of teaching yoga or ways of improving yourself as a yoga instructor, this is absolutely not the right book for you. ... Read more

Product Description

In Heart Yoga, renowned spiritual writer and Sacred Activist Andrew Harvey and longtime yoga teacher Karuna Erickson present a vision of hatha yoga practice that links ancient spiritual traditions to contemporary life. Including excerpts of poetic sacred writing from mystical sages through the ages, the book reminds readers that the purpose of yoga is not to improve one's physical health or even to achieve peace of mind (although these results may be achieved along the way), but to reach a state of unity with the divine, the goal of mystics from all traditions. With detailed descriptions and photographs of fifty yoga poses and their alchemical effects on the body and consciousness, Heart Yoga presents yoga as a simple meditative practice that enables the practitioner to dwell in the heart and experience the bliss of union with the sacred power underlying all of life. The book explains how to prepare for Heart Yoga and describes the “Five Great Joys” that are part of the path. Included are the authors' own compelling stories of their individual journeys along the path of yoga: stories of suffering, transcendence, and joy that both inspire and enlighten.

Customer Reviews (8)

A beautiful marriage of passion, peace and preservation
//Heart Yoga // challenges long-time yoga practitioners to "think outside the box," look further within to tap our own unique spirits, and invite a more intimate level of faith and belief. There are numerous books on yoga and teaching the basic poses and breathing techniques. What one does with it is an entirely personal choice. According to //Heart Yoga//, practice is a prayer, a personal expression of honoring your own life and also honoring life itself.

As in other yoga how-to books, //Heart Yoga// shows basic poses in black and white photos, along with well-written instructions for the poses and breathing exercises. Included throughout the book are well-timed, appropriate quotes and passages from many well-known authors and writers, many with a divine connection to the base energies of nature.

What I appreciated most about the directions for the poses and breathing was the imaginative correlation to connecting with our inner spirit and the energies of the earth, sky, and vast world around us. Each pose is explained, the intent, the goal clarified, the purpose personified. This book reads as much like prose and poem as it does invitation and instruction. It's most definitely a book one must experience to best appreciate it.

Reviewed by Laura Friedkin

A must for anyone wondering about the power of yoga in one's life
Yoga encourages serenity of body and spirit. "Heart Yoga: The Sacred Marriage of Yoga and Mysticism" discusses the power of yoga and how it can have a positive and powerful change on peoples lives, leaving them greater and more open to the many other avenues of life. Thoughtful and enticing reading that can be applied easily in one's life, "Heart Yoga" is a must for anyone wondering about the power of yoga in one's life.

good but a little basic
I like this book, but it mostly yoga routines, and most of the routines have a lot of the same asanas (postures) so you are just getting a lot of repetition in the book.But the idea and concept of the book is beautiful and I truly appreciate how it is getting back to the true roots of yoga.If you are a yoga teacher who teaches yoga that is ONLY for fitness, then you should buy this book, read it, and begin implementing it into your classes.As yoga teachers we need to be teaching yoga as it is intended, and not dumbing it down like we have been doing in the west.Enjoy the love!Namaste.

What yoga is truly about!
Heart Yoga is an inspirational and beautifully crafted book, filled with ancient wisdom and modern insights. The book is infused with moving poetry and simple elegant photos. The yoga practices are well-balanced and easy to follow.

The teachings contained within the book are widely accessible and touch on the vast depths of what yoga truly is. Erickson and Harvey share these practices in order to energize their readers to become spiritual activists, all the while doing so in a wholly sustainable and grounded way. This book is a practical guide on how to take yoga off the mat and into the world!

Erickson and Harvey are master teachers who are using their wisdom to ignite passion in their students.

Heart yoga is a powerful and inspiring guide - one that our world is in great need of!

Encourages readers to reach the heart of yoga through joy and compassion
This book has helped me delve deeper into my yoga practice.It interweaves beautiful mystical poetry with asana sequences to inspire readers to expand their yoga practice to embody joy and compassion. The main body of the book provides different asana series that are a meditation on five different aspects of joy: transcendence, creation, love for all beings, tantra, and service.

As a novice yoga teacher, Heart Yoga has inspired me to incorporate these sequences into both my practice and into my teaching.I especially enjoy seeing how individuals respond to and open up through the partner yoga series detailed in the chapter on the Joy of Tantra.The photos of asanas incorporated throughout the book also provide an essential guide to the reader.

This book will encourage any yoga practitioner, from novice to sage, to delve deeper into their practice and to further open their heart with joy and compassion.
... Read more

Product Description
This meditation is an authentic rendering of Yoga Nidra as taught in the Himalayas by the masters of Yoga, Vedanta and Tantra. While it is an advanced meditation practice, anyone can start the practice while watching it deepen over time.

Yoga Nidra literally means "Yogic Sleep." In this deep meditation you train your attention to leave the chatter of the Waking state of mind, go past the fantasy of the Dreaming state, and consciously, intentionally enter the stillness of the Deep Sleep state, yet paradoxically remain awake and in deep meditation. For thousands of years the Yogis have used Yoga Nidra to master the art of sleep, to balance the subtle energies, and to experience greater depths of meditation.

The state of conscious Deep Sleep or Yoga Nidra is underneath, behind, or subtler than meditations at either the Waking or Dreaming levels. This subtle state is called "Prajna," which means "supreme knowing." "Pra" means "supreme," and "jna" means "knowing." The conscious experience of this state is a doorway to higher, formless knowing that has been called the infinite library of wisdom and the teacher within.

The depth of authentic Yoga Nidra comes from inner awareness of the levels of your own self, including your body, breath, and the subtler mind, rather than diverting attention through music or inner fantasies (as pleasant as these may be). This inner exploring through self-awareness is a more refined form of meditation that leads you deeper into the stillness and silence of your own being, while remaining fully awake and aware. The Yoga Nidra methods bring you to a place of awareness where you are able to completely let go of any words, thoughts, images, impressions, or pictures in the mind. You are guided to allow your mind to "empty, empty, empty" though you remain fully awake and clear of mind.

The practices on this CD will gently train your ability to direct your own attention, which is the primary skill in the art of meditation. You will find that you are gradually able to use these methods on your own, without the CD, and the benefits will be with you not only during your practice time, but also during the activities of daily life.

The voice will systematically guide you to explore your physical body, then move through 61 specific points within the body, and then practice ascending breath awareness along the body and spine. Your attention will be brought to the space between the eyebrows, then to the throat, and finally to the heart center, where you will go deep into stillness and silence, beyond the activities of the mind.

The Yoga Nidra CD has five tracks. The first track is an introduction (8:02 minutes), describing the state of Yoga Nidra and the practices on the CD. The next four tracks move through four sequential practices that are listened to together, so as to form a complete practice of 57:24 minutes (CD is 65:36 minutes in total). These four tracks can also be listened to individually, as complete practices unto themselves, which allows you to have the benefits of practice when less time is available. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (61)

Very usefull meditation
I heard this CD several times. Some others critizice the author, either because they are falling asleep or the did not hear music. I have lsitened to serveral guided meditations. Most of them without music. I have some relaxation CDs, too. For me relaxation is not meditation.I agree that this is no meditation for beginners. Espacially not track 4. To me it seems that some people have unrealistic expectations to meditation CDs. Meditation needs training. And one should not start with the most complicated.To me it is an excellent CD, especially because it is without music, but pure meditation.

Not my cup o tea
I have been meditating for over 15 years. I did not particularly like this meditation. Way too much talk, difficult to follow, instructions too quick. . Definately not for the novice.Just my 2 cents

Not so good for insomniacs
I bought this CD in the hope it would help with severe, intractable insomnia I have had for the last 5 years. Several times during the session I found myself drifting off, but then the voice would startle me awake. I found it to be irritating because it kept waking me up. I don't know if this is how the CD/Yoga Nidra is supposed to be used but I would not recommend this particular recording if you are trying to relieve insomnia.

powerful & relaxing
This is great, but if you are looking for a simple progressive relaxation meditation with a healing backing track and a soothing british accent Isobel Aura's Heavenly Relaxation Meditation I would recommend highly.

Soooooooooo helpful
I switch back and forth between using this CD and Richard Miller's CD. Between the pair of them, I have gotten tremendous results. Because I use meditation to supplement treatments for illness, I can see how much it has effectively touched my entire life. My body heals faster and my treatment sessions have become much more effective and I am progressing so much faster. The more I practice meditating, the more effective it becomes and yoga nidra has become such a powerful tool on the road to recovery. ... Read more

Product Description
Iyengar yoga expert Suza Francina describes and illustrates how older beginners can adapt the practice of yoga to their special needs. Through photos of older teachers and students, this comprehensive guide demonstrates how to progress from gentle floor and chair stretching exercises to vital weight-bearing, standing and inverted postures.Amazon.com Review
"No segment of our population can benefit more from yogathan people over 50," says author Suza Francina, Iyengar yogainstructor and director of the Ojai Yoga Center, where she specializesin classes for people over 50. The New Yoga for People over 50shows how to adapt traditional postures to suit any age or fitnesslevel with step-by-step instructions aimed at the olderbeginner. Photographs, quotes, and personal stories of yoga teachersand students--many in their 70s and older--add inspiration.

One keyto modifying postures for older, stiffer bodies is the use of propsthat provide support to let the yoga student get into strenuouspostures and hold them longer without pain or fatigue. The bookillustrates how to adapt many postures with the aid of chairs, walls,wall ropes, bolsters, back-bending benches, and straps. Yoga decreasesstiffness and inertia, and enhances health, energy, flexibility,posture, breathing, independence, and balance (physical andemotional). Francina explains how yoga may prevent the shortening androunding of the spine and ward off osteoporosis. This book is anexcellent companion to a yoga class or an inspiration to beginone. --Joan Price ... Read more

Customer Reviews (44)

Closing in on 50
I first reviewed this book at the library and decided to get my own copy to continue with healthy stretches that wouldn't hurt an older, stiffer body.
Now I just need the time!;-)

Yoga
This book is very detailed and easy to follow.Illustrations are great.
I recommend this book for anyone over 50 that is thinking about yoga.

Great For Older Beginners and Those With Chronic Injuries
Easy to understand, helpful and encouraging for those of us who suffer from old injuries and general stiffness.Lots of good advice and modifications for older people who still want the benefits of yoga but have concerns about stiffness, weakness and old injuries.Great book.

Fantastic
I am a yogini at almost 60 and can also attest to the benefits of yoga.I think this book is marvelous and I plan on recommending it to many of my friends.My teacher is Iyengar based and I marvel in class as I see new students progress under her care with necessary props to ensure a safe and modified posture.This is stressed throughout the book.This is a book that gives HOPE.Hooray!!!!

respect your body!
The cover picture alone should be enough to avoid picking up, let alone buying this book. Yoga specially for us 'older bodies' should be gentle and challenging, not impossible! ... Read more