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THE ESSENTIAL COMPANION FOR BEGINNING AND EXPERIENCED YOGIS ALIKE

A highly regarded organization for yoga studies and practices, the Sivananda Yoga Center created the first edition of The Sivananda Companion to Yoga in 1983. Since its publication, it has sold more than 700,000 copies worldwide and has become a standard text for both yoga students and teachers.

Now with fresh, colorful pages throughout, The Sivananda Companion to Yoga remains the classic guide to yoga. With easy-to-follow instructions, inspirational teaching, and detailed illustrations, this authoritative guide covers every aspect of the yoga lifestyle, including relaxation, exercise, dietary guidelines, breathing, and meditation. Whether you're using it in conjunction with a class or on your own, The Sivananda Companion to Yoga can help you

* Develop a fit and beautiful body
* Boost your energy and vitality at any stage of life
* Reduce stress and experience greater peace of mind
* Eat nutritiously and responsibly
* Increase your powers of concentration and discipline

Yoga is a journey toward physical and spiritual wellness. With this beautiful, bestselling guide in hand, you will experience the health, energy, and vibrancy that yoga can bring into your life. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (34)

Good book for beginners.
Very good book for those interested in yoga. This book has plenty of yoga poses and has interesting spiritual and hostiric facts of yoga. Why not a five star? Because this book lacks poses variations for individuals in not so good health or for individuals without intermediate flexibility. Although, if you are a bit flexible you can work your way to being able to do certain poses.

Awesome yoga book, even for beginners!
This is my second copy of this book.The other one was loved by a house sitter and never returned.So I was very happy to find it on Amazon.It's a great book!It helps with daily practice, many modified postures, fasting, diet, and many other health related topics.I strongly recommend it!

great!
Very good starter book. Flexibility is a cornerstone of bodily health. This book will help get you there. Very good philosophy too. Recommended by a contortionist friend of mine.

A Beautiful Book
This is traditional hatha yoga i.e. yoga as a complete lifestyle and spiritual path.In other words, this isn't the yoga you'll find at your local gym.I love it. Beautiful pictures.

The only potential drawback I see is that even some of the basic poses are so difficult (like headstand) that beginners may be discouraged, unless they already know how to adapt poses to their own needs. Beginners should check out the sections for pregnancy and the elderly, and they'll find some good alternatives to the basic sequence.

This also isn't the first yoga product at Amazon where I find a review cautioning practicioners that yoga makes one "dangerously" flexible, and is an incomplete fitness program.Somebody appears to have made this their project.There are also studies which have found that weight-bearing yoga poses ward off osteoperosis as well as weight training. As for cardio -- pick up a heart monitor and check out what happens to your heart rate during Sun Salutations.Add that to the fact that were it not for yoga's gentle approach, there are people (like myself) who wouldn't be exercising at all.

In any case, there are at least a hundred conflicting theories when it comes to health, diet, and exercise.The best exercise is the one that you'll keep doing i.e. the one you don't hate.

I love yoga, and hate 'most everything else.And the Sivananda guide is a succinct yet complete textbook you can refer to again and again.It's also a good starting place if you want to get into the more spiritual side of yoga -- breathing, meditation, vegetarian diet, and philosophy.

seriously fantastic
this one has proven superbly useful to me throughout my practice thus far (when it wasn't serious, and when it turned serious).the illustrations and photos are incredibly handy; and coupled with all of the descriptions of how to progress through basic to advanced variations of poses, this book is an incredibly comprehensive approach to beginning a serious home yoga practice.

+there's a chapter on breathing with a variety of depictions ranging from basic to advanced.
+lays out basic poses into a beginner/maintenance routine on a chart. ... Read more

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Customer Reviews (12)

Looks great!
I borrowed a copy from our library last night and am ordering it today. The introduction is straight forward and to the point - no preaching, just practical facts. The poses and asenas are perfect for me - I know almost every single one from beginning yoga, climbing stretch classes, belly dance conditioning, and various physical therapies. This book combines everything into a single, easy to read, well illustrated guidebook.

Absolutely great!
This book is really a great addition to any yoga book shelf. Although it it does not go into as much detail on the steps of each pose as some books, if onehas a working knowledge of yoga it is excellent. Compact with heavy pages it travels well, and spiral bound it remains open to accompany one along side the workout if needed. My only true complaint is that the sanskrit term is not included on the poses.

Very pleasant to handle.
This book is very pleasant to handle: the pages are rigid and thick, an extension of the cover acts as a page marker, and the colors are attractive.
Also the exercises are very intelligently grouped and sequenced; this is a very practical item indeed!

Great summary
Focused.Recc'd for those who are already a little familiar with yoga and just looking for ideas on specific excercises to target certain muscle groups.Works for me.

quick reference guide
Great as a quick reference guide if you already know yoga. I am not a triathlete, but I bike, swim and run and was finding my muscles so tight after these activities. This helped me to quickly reference those poses particularly helpful for those activities to stretch, relieve muscle tightness, and build strength. I have practiced and taught yoga for years and have tons of yoga books, but this is my go-to guide for quick reference. ... Read more

Product Description
New larger format, easier to read and follow edition of this Yoga classic. Includes a brand new foreword by the author.B. K. S Iyengar's Light On Yoga is established now as the classic text for all serious students of yoga. It's a jewel in the list and we are delighted to have the enthusiastic support of B. K. S. Iyengar for this new edition.There has not been a substantial redesign of Light On Yoga since the 1960's and although this orginal, cramped design does sell, we know our new look book will broaden it's appeal, ensuring Light On Yoga remains fresh and accesible.Contains: / Step by step photo-guide to routines for beginners to highly advanced. / Guide to yoga breathing / Introduction to the philosophy behind the Yoga. / Guide to healing specific health problems with yoga poses.New design will appeal to new yoga readers and existing Iyengar students:Larger, more spacious, squarer format pages / Improved structure -- so its easy to see where one exercise ends and next begins / Updated page design and typeface / Larger, easier to read type / Larger photo's of each completed Asana (pose) -- to show more detail.Iyengar's original text is retained throughout and we also have a brand new foreword written by Mr Iyengar especially for this edition. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (9)

A+
The book arrived sooner than estimated and in pristine condition, so Amazon gets another A+ from this satisfied customer!

OK
The book was what I ordered and Amazon delivered perfectly.However, the book itself is jammed into too small of a space.Hard to read and seemed stuffy.

The best
Im a student of yoga and I have to say this book is the best, Im a fan of Iyengar yoga and this book es easy to read and understand.

Light on Yoga
Light On Yoga is my favorite book on yoga!With today's many Western teaching modalities and variety of teaching styles, it is nice to come back to the this book and review the traditional alignment for the many different asana's in yoga.
This truly is a reference book with in- depth description of the pose's along with photos of Iyengar demonstrating each asana.

Oldest and still the Best 1 book on asana

As a yoga practitioner and teacher,this book has been a wonderful companion for many years. It would be very unusual indeed for a teacher to have either not heard of or own this book. The serious student would benefit from owning a copy also but for people new to yoga or who have physical restrictions, they may be better off looking at what people call "Therapeutic Yoga" these days. Hatha Yoga has always been a therapeutic discipline for over 5000 years but today we have the advantage of looking for specific areas that focus on a particular bias. Everyone should have the opportunity of learning how to master the mind-body complex.Camella Nair RYT author of "Aqua Kriya Yoga" ... Read more

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For the first time, here is a detailed explanation and classification of herbs,using the ancient system of Ayurveda.More than 270 herbs are listed, with 108herbs explained in detail.Included are many of the most commonly used westernherbs with a profound Ayurvedic perspective.Important Chinese and specialAyurvedic herbs are introduced.Beautiful diagrams and charts, as well asdetailed glossaries, appendices and index are included. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (14)

The Yoga of Herbs
"The Yoga of Herbs," is a practical opus, assisting one to understand how uncomplicated herbal self-help and self-healing can be. Further, this text also assists the serious student in a bit of astrology to understand the connection of herbs to various houses and elements of the zodiac houses which are fire, earth-water, air-either, to bring the "tridoshas" (the three body types-compositions we all have which must be in delicate balance for whole health), which is in fact the foundation of all spiritual traditions. Additionally, Vasant Lad provides the Sanskrit, for each herb for those who want to learn the parallel connection between the Ayurvedic Indian Eastern Tradition and the Western Tradition of healing. Thank you greatly Vasant Lad for this wonderful healing opus!!!!!!

Great Ayurvedic Resource
This is an excellent detailed reference for ayurvedic herbal properties. Claudia Newcorn - author of the award-winning fantasy, Crossover Crossover: Krisálys Chronicles of Féyree

Ayurvedic herbs, nature's medicine
As a student of Ayurveda, the Yoga of Herbs by Dr. Frawley and Dr. Lad were excellent coverage of herbs, not only Ayurveda but reference to the Chinese herb name as well.I will use this book frequently for reference in my Ayurvedic studies and will highly recommend the book to those who are looking for alternative therapies to allopathic medicine.It will always be my philosophy that we treat ourselves with a healthy lifestyle, healthy state of mind, and work towards living a life of higher consciousness.Dr. Frawley and Dr. Lad are experts in the field of Ayurveda and with mentoring such we have in them, our health issues would be far less just by following the use of herbs that the doctors have incorporated into the Yoga of Herbs.

Good info on Ayurveda; Bad info on herbs
I enjoyed the author's description of basic Ayurvedic Medicine (TAM) principles and philosophy; as for the monographs of herbs and their actions not so much. I own the 2nd ed. and found many problems with the Materia Medica of the book. When the authors describe Basil (Ocinum spp.)they misrepresent the plant as Tulsi which is actually Holy Basil (Ocinum Sanctum)- one of the most used plants in TAM; the adaptogenic qualities of Tulsi are not present in other types of Basil. Another misrepresentation is Hibiscus (Hibiscus Rosa-Sinesis) for which they use the wrong species of plant (actually Hibiscus sabdariffa) and the wrong part of the plant used (the flower is not used as the book says but the calyx); Wikipedia also states the Hibiscus Rosa-Sinesis flower is used to shine shoes and in devotions to the god Devi, not specifically for beverages as the Hibiscus sabdariffa.
Yes I did like the descriptions of TAM doshas and philosophy but if you wish to try the herbs mentioned in the book I recommend finding another book like those by Tillotson, Murray, Pizzarno, Gladstar, Hoffman or even Penny C. Royal for more dependable herbal monographs.

The best herb book i've ever read.
This is the best, bar none. It goes into detail with each herb, telling us the energetics of the herbs, in terms of ayurveda-the oldest system of popular standardized medicine in the world. Ayurveda literally means science of life. There is indepth information on the physical and psychological effects of each herb. It even tells you how the herbs relate to the chakras. Dr. Vasant Lad is the countrys' leading authority on Ayurveda (besides Deepak Chopra)and he got together with David Frawley-a very learned Vedic scholar to write this book. Together they make magic happen. This book is more than worth the money . ... Read more

Product Description

It's no secret that yoga increases muscular flexibility and strength, but you may not know that yoga is a proven treatment for back pain, knee pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, and other chronic pain conditions. Yoga also helps to ease the stress, anxiety, and depression that can create and reinforce pain, making you feel more comfortable in both your mind and your body.

Written by a yoga instructor and former chronic pain sufferer, Yoga for Pain Relief is packed with gentle postures and practical strategies for ending pain. This complete mind-body tool kit for healing also includes deep relaxation practices drawn from the yogic tradition and psychological techniques for helping you make peace with your body and dissolve pain. As the ancient practice of yoga releases the hold that chronic pain has over your life, you will begin to feel more like yourself again.

This book is very much in line with all that the American Chronic Pain Association teaches. I recommend that you relax, renew yourself, and enjoy your adventure through Yoga for Pain Relief.
-Penney Cowan, executive director of the American Chronic Pain Association

Those of us who practice yoga know that it has many benefits, like the reduction of all kinds of pain. Now we have a sourcebook that explains why yoga has this effect. McGonigal s book presents salient research on pain and its causes and explains exactly how yoga helps. This book is a must for yoga teachers and anyone suffering pain. Highly recommended.
-Judith Hanson Lasater, Ph.D., PT, yoga teacher and author of Yogabody

Customer Reviews (14)

Relief
Great little book to help to learn to ease tension and stress .
You will learn to calm the mind.

Practical Help
This book is calming and soothing in tone and content. It gives a clear path to follow in handling chronic pain and by extension, a lot of life's other challenges. The yoga exercises are not difficult and should be possible for a lot of people to do, depending on their situations. The breathing and meditation sections are great and focus on the concept of coping with your situation. The author gives a total program that can be customized to fit anyone's particular circumstances. I was very interested in her discussion of how the mind treats chronic pain and how changing one's thinking and approach can make pain easier to bear - and also happy to see that there were practical ways to go about it. Clearly written and easy to follow with sufficient photos.

A valuable, hopeful resource for those who are suffering
NOTE:I received a free copy of this book to review for the web site Metapsychology Online Reviews; please see a more complete version of my review on that site.

Yoga for Pain Relief offers simple strategies from the mind-body approach of yoga to ease pain--both physical and emotional--and to alleviate suffering.In her Introduction, author Kelly McGonigal describes how pain itself is a mind-body experience; she notes that chronic pain in particular is a learned response.Through the regular practice of yoga strategies, including breathing techniques, befriending the body, physical exercises, and relaxation, McGonigal maintains that one can attain greater control over one's mind and body both to increase comfort and to decrease suffering.

McGonigal begins by providing an overview of the pain response.She then introduces some basic ideas from the yogic tradition that will facilitate further discussion of the yoga healing practices.These concepts are very straightforward, such as the importance of the breath and the focus on the experience of inner joy as part of the practice.At this point, McGonigal is ready to begin reviewing some actual healing practices, starting in Chapter 3 with Breath.Throughout the practice segments of the book, there are detailed descriptions of how to perform the various exercises accompanied by clear, helpful black-and-white photos of McGonigal and other models demonstrating the movements.Also, at the end of every yoga practice chapter, McGonigal includes a "Putting it All Together" section which offers suggestions for how to use the exercises/practices in different ways.

The next chapter focuses on Befriending the Body, or moving from a more adversarial relationship with oneself and one's pain to one of compassion and acceptance.For the physical exercises, McGonigal's emphasis is always on healing.She presents gentle asana (held postures) and vinyasa (movements combined with breath), many of which are performed on the floor or can be modified with use of a chair.After introducing a basic pose sequence which can be combined in many different ways, McGonigal moves on to restorative postures.These poses require props to support the body and to allow for a more complete relaxation experience.The final yoga practice chapter focuses on Meditation.As with the previous chapters, McGonigal offers several different options for establishing a meditation practice and explains each in detail.

In the final chapter of the book, McGonigal offers suggestions for developing a personal yoga program.I especially liked her encouragement to establish a "homecoming" practice--that is, choosing just one simple exercise from the book that you will commit to practicing daily.She provides various suggestions for how to incorporate the exercises from the preceding chapters into different types of practices.In addition, McGonigal notes how the short personal vignettes from her students which appear throughout the book offer examples of various yoga rituals.McGonigal concludes the book with a Resources chapter offering information on books, music, DVDs, and other resources for people with pain.

For those who are suffering from chronic pain, this book is an excellent, hopeful resource.McGonigal herself is not only a psychology, yoga, and meditation instructor but also a former chronic pain sufferer.When practiced regularly--perhaps in as little as 15 minutes per day--these easy-to-use, gentle yoga techniques can give you the tools to manage your pain and to reduce your suffering.Dr. McGonigal has written a book that is clear, well-researched, easy-to-understand, and potentially extremely valuable, and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend it.

Hands-down best book on this topic
yoga for pain relief is hands-down the best guidebook written on the topic of yoga and chronic pain. It is practical, compassionate, science-based and easy to understand. This is Yoga; this is science; and best of all, this is accessible to people who do not know yoga.
Three specific groups of people should read this book - people with chronic pain, practitioners who treat people in pain, and all Yoga teachers. Kelly's expertise and experiences allow her to provide hope and a realistic view that improvements are possible. Her book offers compassionate guidance, and makes it clear that chronic pain is a complex multidimensional problem requiring much more than a recipe approach or modifications of yoga postures. Many of the simple to perform techniques she describes are effectively used in multidisciplinary pain management settings. Even people with severe pain will find some assistance from this guidebook. With over 20% of the North American population reporting chronic pain, there is a huge need for greater understanding of pain self-management and the role Yoga can play in recovery.
I recommend yoga for pain relief to my patients and students for the following reasons:
* The instructions are simple and easy to follow, including powerful breathing, body awareness, relaxation and meditation techniques.
* There are no recipes provided.
* The guidance includes many aspects of Yoga, rather than a biomechanical focus on Yoga postures as physical therapy.
* Her `five guidelines for movements that heal' answer an important question about how to move in the face of ongoing pain.
* The clarity that some techniques are for immediate pain relief and others are for long last benefits.
* The integration of real-person stories to highlight key aspects of recovery from pain.
* Comments such as, "Your goal is create peace of mind even in poses that create strong sensations of stretch or require effort to hold". The same goal of course applies when one is at the edge of increased pain.

Don't be misled by the title of this book. It teaches as much about chronic pain, pain self-management and the current science of pain as it does about Yoga. There is even a citation list for those interested in delving further into the science behind Yoga practices for people in pain.
Like all guide books, you may find the best results by working with a practitioner who understands Yoga and understand chronic pain. If you cannot locate one, don't let that stop you from slowly working through these techniques. Give them enough of your attention and enough practice and they will help you towards less pain, better movement and improved quality of life.
Neil Pearson, MSc, BScPT, BA-BPHE, CYT, RYT500 is a physiotherapist, certified yoga therapist, and Clinical Assistant Professor at University of British Columbia.He is the founding chair of the Pain Science Division of the Canadian Physiotherapy Association, and an active member of Pain BC Society.Neil travels extensively teaching pain science and pain management to health care professionals, yoga teachers and people in pain. His clinical work, in Penticton BC, is exclusively with people with complex pain problems. [...]

Hitting a sweat spot for
This is a book that I would recommended to anyone who wants to the bottom line on what you can get from yoga/meditation. The book hits a kind of "sweat spot:" this is yoga's entry point with the minimal initial physical investment, the lowest opportunity cost and the biggest pay-off. You don't have to get in shape, build up your aerobic capacity, muscular strength and flexibility before seeing results. You don't even need to know what's wrong with you for yoga to do you some good.

The book is extraordinarily accessible: No jargon, either from the Sanskrit or from the academic/scientific lingua franca, no intellectual arrogance, no magical incantation, no gateway to esoteric wisdom, no complicated sequences of poses. Within the first 25 pages (out of 183 pp#, she's giving you easy routines to start using what's she teaching, in this case, observing your breath.

Five years ago, I took an e-mail/online course from Kelly, and I've followed her path since then so I am not impartial. One of the things that Kelly said five years ago has stayed with me and she repeats it in the book: people seek out yoga because they are suffering, either physically, psychologically or spiritually. Human suffering is a great motivator and a constant of human existence. The book's virtue is simplifying yoga down to a concise, clear message: Relieve your suffering; start with these easy steps. If Patanjali #an ancient sage who recorded the first thesis on yoga in India) had written like Kelly, yoga would have taken over the world (kidding -- a little).

Kelly also understands the value of personal narrative alongside the findings of randomized, blind control experiments, and she has included compelling stories of people impacted by yoga throughout the book.

[...] ... Read more

Product Description
Millions of Americans know yoga as a superb form of exercise and as a potent source of calm in our stress-filled lives. Far fewer are aware of the full promise of yoga as a 4,000-year-old practical path of liberation--a path that fits the needs of modern Western seekers with startling precision.Now Stephen Cope, a Western-trained psychotherapist who has lived and taught for more than ten years at the largest yoga center in America, offers this marvelously lively and irreverent "pilgrim's progress" for today's world. He demystifies the philosophy, psychology, and practice of yoga, and shows how it applies to our most human dilemmas: from loss, disappointment, and addiction, to the eternal conflicts around sex and relationship. And he shows us that in yoga, "liberation" does not require us to leave our everyday lives for some transcendent spiritual plane--life itself is the path.Above all, Cope shows how yoga can heal the suffering of self-estrangement that pervades our society, leading us to a new sense of purpose and to a deeper, more satisfying life in the world.Amazon.com Review
Despite skeptical jibes from his well-meaning friends, StephenCope set off for a four-month yoga retreat in rural Massachusetts. Tenyears later, he is still there. A psychotherapist left in the lurchafter a long-term relationship, Cope was experiencing the same deepquestioning of life that he had witnessed so often in hispractice. His self-prescribed antidote was to pursue a life ofcontemplation and inner discovery that he had felt drawn to for sometime. Yoga and the Quest for the True Self is Cope's chronicleof self-discovery. Cope is at turns frank in describing his ownobstacles and epiphanies, brotherly in relating anecdotes of friendsand patients on similar quests, and clinical in his trenchantpsychological summations of why we find ourselves estranged and howyoga and meditation bring us back to clear awareness. Like MarkEpstein's Going toPieces Without Falling Apart, Yoga and the Quest for theTrue Self is a milestone in the melding of Eastern and Westernmethods of personal transformation. --Brian Bruya ... Read more

Customer Reviews (30)

Finding the True Self is important for Life
A dear friend suggested this book to me. And I am very happy she did. Finding the True Self is very important to find enter peace and happiness with self. What Yoga/meditation do is help us to be still long enought for us to tap into the true self. Very great book to read.

Yoga and the quest for the true self
This is the most wonderful and skilful book I have ever read on yoga as it is so wonderfully truthful about yoga. Both of Stephen Cope books are a must for any true yogi, I have loved his work and his depth of insight into yoga. Stephenbrings the light to the truth of yoga, which we all know can be confusing and frustrating. So thank you Stephen for clearing up the yoga monopoly and all the misunderstanding that has been evident for century in the yoga fraternity. I am so very grateful I can now hand on this wisdom of truth to my yoga students to embrace. thank you!

Top 5 books I've ever read.
I rank Cope's work right up there with Prisoners of Childhood by Alice Miller. This book shed light on some of my own experience andgave voice to spiritual yearnings of my own. This is a yoga of transformation. Excellent.

Insightful and Accessible
I so enjoyed reading this book. I very much felt that this book is written for real people who are skeptical/curious about yoga philosophy.Cope takes you through step by step how and why yoga works using real language not hippie/bliss out language seen in other yoga books.Also, for someone who is familiar with psychotherapy and wanting to add a spiritual dimension to their self-care this book is invaluable in merging the two lines of thinking.This book was very influential to me - I plan to refer to it much as I continue to develop my yoga practice.

Honest, Deep and Practical.A Life Changing Book !
Yoga and the Quest for the True Self is definitely one of the best (if not the best) and most useful books I've ever read. It truly speaks to developing a mature, real life approach to spirituality.

Stephen Cope writes from a perspective that I feel really speaks to the Western spiritual seeker. He combines his experience and knowledge as a psychotherapist with his knowledge of Yoga and other spiritual paths.

While Yoga is a path of union, it appears only too clear that without removing the layers of psychological baggage, union with the divine cannot truly mainfest in ones life. All of the spiritual insights and epiphanies will never be more than a transparent veil placed thinly over the unresolved baggage. Insights without fertile ground to take root will soon fade or be used as another vehicle for ego building.

The author makes clear that the mature path of Yoga is not one of renunciation, or a solitary journey, but explains that "as spiritual practice matured in India there arose a radical new understanding of the paradox of action and inaction. This was the doctrine of inaction in action, and goes further to explain that Krishna teaches in the "Gita" to "Act in the world in alignment with your true vocation, your true self etc....." Clearly not a path of renunciation or a solitary path but one that involves action IN the world.

I found this book really spoke to me as a person on the spiritual path in a way that is truly transformative and not just a bunch of religious dogma. Using his own personal experiences and the experiences of other seekers throughout the book, he has woven a beautifully written guide that is really eye opening and practical. It clearly put into perspective many things that I have either personally struggled with or wondered about.

Stephen Cope makes no claims to be an enlightened master with "wisdom from on high"nor is he trying to "convert" anyone to a particular spiritual path. He explains how the various tools of yoga can help us become more in touch with our true selves. How the process and practice of Hatha Yoga for example, isn't just physical exercise but a spiritual and yet practical process that can help people grow by becoming grounded in their own bodies. At the same time one can work at developing their witness consciousness thru the process of Hatha Yoga.

Of the many things I took away from the book, one particularly valuable was the "mantra" Breathe, Relax, Feel, Watch, Allow" which can be used in Hatha Yoga practice, meditation, or even in one's ordinary life when they are scattered and want to become grounded, focused and internally centered.

Some have mistakenly concluded that the author's final assessment is that all of his spiritual practice was for nothing. While there is a "moment" in the book where Cope leaves in the middle of a retreat, a retreat that he had preconceived notions of it's outcome , that is not by any means the conclusion of the book. Actually the crux of what Stephen Cope comes to realize after refelecting on his10 years or so of practice is that "In the entire path of yoga, there is really only one lesson...... Whenever we relinquish our craving, clinging and grasping, whenever we stop the war with reality and are totally present and undivided, we are immediately in union with our true nature".

The book also talks about the Kripalu Center and it's own growth, through the early years with founder Amrit Desai, to his (Desai's) fall from grace, and how this community matured rather than fell apart in the midst of this controversy.

It also explains much about the "false" Guru phenomena. In particular what happens when disciples own needs for an "all knowing father" can in their own way create a monster of their own making.

If you are a Yoga practitioner who wants to go "beyond the postures" as strictly physical exercise, or a spiritual seeker of any faith who wants to read a book that speaks with honesty and depth, intelligence and insight (and to "real people") then I highly recommend this book. ... Read more

Product Description
What allows kids to use a lot of energy, make funny noises, relax, and learn to focus all at the same time? Yoga! While many yoga books present individual poses, this book explains how to create a flowing yoga practice that will holds kids’ interest while providing the benefits of yoga. Here is a handbook for anyone--including parents, teachers, and kids--who wants to develop a fun yoga practice. In addition, the book provides ideas for yoga games, yoga at a wall, more relaxation games, and five-minute classroom yoga. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (13)

Create a Yoga Practice for Kids
This book has great ideas for a fun and enjoyable kids' practice. I would recommend it to anyone as a way to supplement your kids' classes

Very helpful!
This is such a wonderful resource with so many great ideas for teaching a Kid's Yoga class.I have used just about every lesson plan from the book.Great buy!

Good Information
I enjoyed this book.It gave me some new ideas for my class and contained some good, different ways to express thoughts to children.I would recommend this book for other teachers and parents.

Excellent Guide to Kids Yoga
I am a hatha yoga teacher for adults, and reading this book prepared me very well to teach 5th graders. The class themes were a hit, and the kids loved learning about shapes and geometry while doing yoga. The visualization ideas are also very nice. I would highly recommend this book.

Easy to use and creative
Very easy to use to create lesson plans for children's yoga programs.Give a lot of good ideas for a start to finish class. ... Read more

Product Description
Two genuine relaxation methods from the Nyasa Tantra, 20 minutes and 45 minutes - and a piece of music. 20 page information booklet included.

Swami Janakananda guides you into a deep relaxation of body and mind. He also uses the tantric mantras and visual symbols to awaken and harmonize the chakras. With a background of nature sounds and music. Roop Verma, on sitar, is the first musician to record the chakras' ancient music symbols. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (41)

Haven't received the product yet
I paid more than the price of the product for shipping and yet haven't received it. There was no tracking information available and I have no idea what to do. Very pathetic service.

not what I expected
I am a regular yoga nidra practitioner but cannot recommend this as I found the barn yard noises and the curious spoken accent too distracting - the opposite desired effect.

Perfect Relaxation
Having tried various forms of yoga over the last six years, I finally found something that provides genuine deep relaxation without heavy lifting, boring holosync rain sounds or much effort at all. Yoga Nidra is the ancient practice of "yogic sleep" wherein the individual remains conscious, lucid and in total control of their faculties while still experiencing deep relaxation of the body and mind.Swami Janakanada Saraswati not only has a fun name to say, he is also the soothing voice that provides the guided meditation(even though he does have a bit of an accent). It doesn't matter if you are new to meditation or a seasoned practitioner, Yoga Nidra will allow you to quiet your mind, develop your left and right brain simultaneously and provide you with a truly peaceful outlet.Meditation offers nothing more than that, but what wonderful benefits they are.

Yoga Nidra
This recording is a must-have for a wonderful deep-relaxation that awakens the spirit while calming the body--every part of my being is both relaxed and energized. This is the third time over 15 years that I've ordered Yoga Nidra. The first two were on tapes that gradually got worn out or ruined. I was delighted to see it out in CD now.

Great Yoga Nidra Experience
I bought this CD a month ago. I didn't know anything about Yoga Nidra. The yoga club where I go to announced that they would be teaching a Yoga Nidra class. I did research online and bought this CD based on the reviews from other customers.The first week of listening to this program, I was ready to throw the CD away. I started Yoga Nidra class the following week. In class I learned not to judge the voice but to make it my own and to let go of judgment. It made a world of difference.I like this Yoga Nidra CD way better than the one given to me by the Instructor in class.After three weeks of listening to Yoga Nidra on a daily basis, I am more relaxed and at peace with myself, family, and friends. ... Read more

Product Description
Yoga and Ayurveda together form a complete approach for optimal health, vitality and higher awareness.YOGA AND AYURVEDA reveals to us the secret powers of thebody, breath, senses, mind and chakras.More importantly, it unfoldstransformational methods to work on them through diet, herbs, asana, pranayamaand meditation.This is the first book published in the West on these twoextraordinary subjects and their interface.It has the power to change thelives of those who read and apply it. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (8)

A little more advanced than I thought
The book starts off with a whole lot of information and not a whole lot of explanation.Not the best book to start with on your Ayurveda journey but definitely useful.

a guide for awakened souls..
words fall short when it comes to write a review on Dr. David Frawley's work. simply the best. No one has better understanding on the subject than him. I have been following ayurveda and yoga in bits and pieces. this whole book consolidated my knowledge and taught me the right sequence of things. for example, doing pranayama when your ojas is low, is killing yourself..

Great book for "seekers". You will want to know more!
Bought this book for my yoga TT and found it very interesting, informative and deep. Definitely can recommend it. Sharka

perfect for the intermediate-advanced practitioner
This book is perfect for those who already have some understanding of ayurveda/yoga/holistic health. It addresses the core principles and practices with a beautiful blend of spiritual lineage and academic rigor. This is definitely not an introductory-level book; it is a wonderful reference for those ready to move more deeply into these practices.

yoga and Ayurveda

The kind of books I like are the ones that are tagged, underlined,and worn. That indicates that it is not just another book for another books sake. This is one of those books.Teaching or practicing yoga without knowledge of ayurveda is like teaching with some knowledge of life missing. It links us to the macrocosm aswell as understanding our constitution beyond the physical body and is a must buy and study. It helps us to understand what we have to re-wire on an individual level to make progress on the spiritual path. Camella Nair - Author of Aqua Kriya Yoga ... Read more

Product Description
Yoga is not an ancient myth buried in oblivion.It is the most valuable inheritance of the present.It is the essential need of today and the culture of tomorrow. Swami Sivananda Sarswati. This book is the most comprehensive text ever published on yoga. It contains a complete course of 36 structured lessons on all the practices of integral yoga. The lessons were compiled from the teachings given by Swami Satyananda Saraswati and are useful as a practical and theoretical guide for all levels of yoga teachers and aspirants. The book presents a synthesis of yoga in a scientific and systematic manner. The different branches of hatha yoga, mantra yoga, karma yoga, bhakti yoga, jnana yoga and kriya yoga are progressively introduced with special emphasis on practice, theory and application in daily life. Includes line drawings,diagrams and colour plates. The depth of knowledge this book contains provides the link between you,the practitoner of yoga and an experienced guide and teacher.This link is your sadhana(spiritual practice),the beginning of your inner transformation,spiritual awakening and realization of higher ideals in life. The techniques covered in this book have their basis in the ancient vedic (tantric and yogic) shastras and were handed over the centuries from guru to disciple. Now in an age when travel and communication have become almost instantaneous affairs and there are more efficient methods of disseminating wisdom than the human voice and ear,we wish to offer these transcendatal instruments of grace to all who have eyes to read and ears to hear. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (15)

thick
A yoga book the size of the dictionary! I am also very surprised that there are not more reviews of this book. It takes you from day one. Unlike most yoga books, it doesnt start out assuming that you can can already fold yourself in half. It builds up your ability slowly and gently. Covering much more than just the asana's. It takes you through every single aspect of yoga. Asana, Pranayama, Mudra, Bandha, diet, hygiene, philosophy, meditation, EVERYTHING! Be warned, however, this book is not for those who are looking for a quick little yoga program, or are looking for some POWER YOGA to firm up those glutes and thighs. This is traditional. This is for those people who are looking to live the life of a true yogi. Do not be fooled by the price either. This book is worth FAR more than what it costs. Written by Swami Satyananda Saraswati, a TRUE indian yogi, about TRUE indian yoga. VERY authentic, VERY good, VERY complete. And dispite SERIOUSLY being about as long as the dictionary, it is very easy to read through and understand.
May the wisdom of Swami Satyananda Saraswati come to the aid of all those who travel the path of yoga.
OM

Excellent Resource
At first glance this seems to be an overwhelming amount of literature at nearly 1000 pages.
However after reading just the first few lessons and leafing through the rest I am pleasantly surprised by the profound depth of the writing. There is no superfluous ramblings or wordy explanations, only clear, deep and precise explanations of very important aspects of the yogi path. I have been practicing yoga, meditation and reading many books on these subjects and nowhere else have I found so many answers to my questions or techniques to get past a certain roadblock. I have put all of my many other books aside as i embark on the course recommended in th text. I highly recommend this book to any serious practitioner.

Review of A Systematic Course in the Ancient Tantric Techniques of Yoga and Kriya
It is an excellent book, like all the others of Swami Satyananda Saraswati. I would recommend it to people who want to practice yoga regularly.

Magnum Opus
I am a graduate student doing my Phd in Electrical Engineering but yoga and meditation are my hobbies (along with hiking and biking).
As some of the other reviewers have pointed out, this book is one of the most comprehensive, articulate and informative book I have found so far on meditation and yoga.
The book emphasizes that, 'There is no need to believe before hand that the techniques will work. Practice and you will know it to be true'.
The book starts with Hatha yoga, basic asanas and progresses through basic breathing techniques. Along the way it gives an in-depth analysis of various forms of yoga - Karma yoga, Raja Yoga, Bhakti yoga, etc.
It emphasizes that these different yogas complement each other and do not go against each other.
Some people might ask, well isn't there 'one god'. Shouldn't there be one path?This is a narrow way of looking at things. Sure there is one 'Mount Everest' but there are probably many different ways to get to the base-camp!
And each has its own scenic views and obstacles.
Same with the different yogas. Pick one that best suits your personality or better integrate a few of them - E.g. Karma yoga (This is easy to begin - If you work everyday!), Bhakti yoga (Prayer, devotion,etc) and Raja yoga (Breathing, Meditations,etc).
The book gives precise instructions especially in the breathing techniques and gives it to you in steps, so that you can measure your progress and move onto the next level.
The book moves onto advanced kriya techniques towards the end of the book (these require some level of mastery over postures and breathing techniques).
This is a book to keep for a lifetime and go through again and again to understand and integrate more knowledge as one progresses on the path.

A Systematic Course In The Ancient Tantric Techniques of Yoga and Kriya
One of the unique aspects of this wonderful book is that it calls yoga what it essentially is: a tantric spiritual path. Moreover, in a section on tantra, Swami Satyananda explains how tantra developed separately from the Vedas and gave birth to what we know as yoga today. Most of the hatha yoga trends practiced in the West today can be traced back to Krisnamacharya and his disciple B.K.S. Iyengar, who often blended the original hatha yoga (which also originated within the tantric system) with Western style gymnastics, props, etc. In this book, we get a practical course in the ancient techniques of yoga before being Westernized and modernized by teachers focusing mostly on the physical side of yoga. In tantra, hatha yoga is used as preparation or as an integral part of spiritual practice; in other words, as an integral part of meditation. The program in this book is very systematic and hands on, but also quite demanding and only for those who are serious students on the path of yoga. The only limitation with this book is simply that it is a text and not a living teacher. Ideally one need to study tantra with a competent teacher or guru. A book, no matter how comprehensive, cannot be a substitute for a personal student teacher relationship. Apart from that, I highly recommend this book. ... Read more

Product Description
In just 196 short aphorisms, this classic work of Indian philosophy spells out succinctly how the mind works, and how it is possible to use the mind to attain liberation. Compiled in the second or third century CE, theYoga-Sutra is a road map of human consciousness—and a particularly helpful guide to the mind states one encounters in meditation, yoga, and other spiritual practices. It expresses the truths of the human condition with great eloquence: how we know what we know, why we suffer, and how we can discover the way out of suffering. Chip Hartranft's fresh translation and extensive, lucid commentary bring the text beautifully to life. He also provides useful auxiliary materials, including an afterword on the legacy of theYoga-Sutra and its relevance for us today. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (16)

Ancient text with modern application
This is a great version of the Yoga Sutras for readers who are interested but a bit daunted by Sanskrit. By integrating intepretation of the text with its translation, Chip Hartranft presents this ancient wisdom in a way that is immediately applicable to our everyday attempts to live life well. He threads the most relevant Sanskrit words throughout so that you actually learn them as you read. All students of yoga should read this.

better ones out there
If you read the yoga sutras, you're better off no matter what translation or additional commentary you get.That said, I didn't feel like the translation and commentary were helpful for me...I would recommend Swami Satchidananda's translation over this one.Happy reading!

This is really the best Yoga Sutra Commentary.
The author's Buddhist influence is actually a good thing.The emphasis on compassion reflects itself in clear and concise teaching.

With a really good and clear explanation, one can then proceed on the road with a bit of understanding. It's a tall order, but this author has done it.

I'm all for combining both intellectual understanding
and actual practice. This book is a joy to read.

Clarity and Context in Patanjali's Yoga Sutra
I Found Hartraneft's book on "The Yoga Sutra of Patanjali" to have a firm and insightful presentation of the sutra in a coherent way that elucidated the distinctions between Patanjali and his context in Hindu religion and Buddhism. But the reviews indicating that he did not distinguish the two Sanskrit terms "Cit and Citta" - and further forwarded a Buddhist agenda concerned me in that I know no Sanskrit and am a Buddhist, and thus any "spin toward Buddhism" might be invisible to me.

I supply the 2 definitions I found and hope further posts might clarify the distinction be tween "pure" yoga and how much it is truly embedded in Hindu religion by Patanjali himself.

From:The Concise Oxford Dictionary of World ReligionsAuthor: JOHN BOWKER, originally published by Oxford University Press 1997.

Cit (Skt., `See'). In Hindu thought, pure consciousness as the essential and irreducible quality of the eternal self or Brahman. In Vednta, cit is often grouped together with being (sat) and bliss (nanda) as a description of Brahman.

Citta (Skt., `that which has been seen', i.e. belonging to consciousness, cf. CIT).

In Hinduism, the reflective and thus conscious mind;

in Buddhism, an equivalent to manas (reflective mind) and vijñna (continuing consciousness).

It belongs to all beings above the level of plant life. The nature of citta received particular analysis and emphasis in Vijñanavda (also known as Yogacra)--so much so that the school is also known as Cittamtra, Mind only.
------------
FROM: [...]

a theists view:

Citta and Cit

The liberation in life according to Samkhya is possible by the realization of separation between purusa (soul) and prakrti (body) and Yoga achieves it by uniting the self to a higher reality (e.g. God) and away from the body. Yoga is thus considered as practical aspect of the theoretical Samkhya philosophy.

Moreover, even though it is logical to study intellect (buddhi), mind (manas) and ego (ahamkar) as separate entities in Samkhya, in terms of their practical applicability (as in Yoga) it may be useful to treat them as one (citta or chitta). For example, in day to day activities of a jiwa (living being), all of them (intellect, ego and mind) are activated at the same time and it's hard to be precise about their individual participation (influences and effects). Thus citta seems a more logical choice for the combination of intellect, mind and ego according to Yoga philosophy (literature).

I don't know the author, yet I love this book
I am no expert on the Sutras. I read parts of several versions of the sutras looking for one I could study without constantly questioning the commentary. Other versions add a lot in the commentary that arguably is not meant in the original. For example, a version by Satchidananda mentions "God" after just about every line in the Sutras. I don't know Sanskrit, but the word which is being translated as "God" may mean something more like an impersonal pure awareness, and whatever it means, it does not appear in the text nearly as often as Satchidananda brings it up. Hartranft's was the best translation I for my purposes; his commentary seems to take fewer liberties. ... Read more

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Customer Reviews (10)

DO NOT WASTE TIME OR MONEY
This is a glorified pamphlet !! It is pretty much of very little use.
It is just regular yoga poses done on a bed .
Total waste
see "Get Fit in Bed " if you want, need a stretching/strengthening routine done in bed
That book is a 5 star

Wonderful!!!
This book makes taking a few minutes to start and/or end your day right so easy.Filled with clear photos for each pose, there are also pictures for easier variations on poses for those new to yoga.
The binding on the book is perfectly designed for opening flat at each page and staying that way so you can do the poses and see the photos, without having to work at keeping the book open to the page you want.

It is also a very beautiful and inspiring book, filled with photos you could just sit and look at as a meditation...ie a drop of dew hanging off a blade of grass...all taken by the author.
Just Wonderful!!

gentle, helpful, beautiful book
I've had a yoga practice, on and off, for many years. Recently I've been challenged with arthritis in some of my joints and have had to modify my practice. I find Naomi Call's approach---doing yoga in bed---a softer, helpful and pleasant way to start the day.

Yoga in Bed: Awaken Body., Mind & Spirit in Fifteen Minutes
I love this book! The poses are easy to follow and descriptions are clear. One can use this book for many different reasons. As a great way to begin or end your day.I gave a copy of this book to my 81 year old mother, she can't stop telling me how wonderful she feels. She now loves waking up doing yoga in bed, it is something she can and WILL do. A friend recovering from surgery is recovering faster by doing these gentle yoga stretches along with breathing properly. My daughter is doing Yoga in Bed with her newborn baby.Thank you,Naomi for this precious gift.

Feel Better Fast!
This book has made a huge difference in my life.I was someone with good intentions about exercising and doing yoga in particular, but I could never organize the time or create the space in my life to act on my intentions.This book changed all that for me.Now I do 10-15 minutes of yoga each morning before I get out of bed, before I let anything else enter my thoughts.That's the key!There is no distraction and the yoga has become my priority.I never would have believed it.There are clear instructions and photos for the postures which make it easy to follow in the beginning. I also like the quotes and bits of poetry that help to inspire on a dreary day.Beautiful flower photos are a bonus. ... Read more

Product Description
If you've been looking for a fun and loving way to help your children learn and improve their development, look no further than Itsy Bitsy Yoga for Toddlers and Preschoolers. New studies show that young kids learn best through play and need at least 30 minutes of structured physical activity each day. There's no better way to engage your child than through the simple practice of yoga.

Yoga can help your 18-month to five-year-old child have:
* Fewer tantrums
* Better and longer sleep
* Increased motor coordination
* Improved listening and ability to follow directions
* Better self-expression
* Higher self-esteem
* Easier relaxation
* A healthy and physically fit lifestyle

Named the "Baby Yoga Expert" by Newsweek, Helen Garabedian, a certified yoga instructor, created her program with 8-minute sequences easy to fit into a young child's day. Fully illustrated with beautiful photos, Itsy Bitsy Yoga for Toddlers and Preschoolers features more than 50 simple poses and games kids love, offering creative ways to get active.

Yoga can even help your child throughout the day--from taming tantrums to teaching cooperation--On the Go advice and Super Duper Poses show you how. Enjoy the fun of yoga with your child today! ... Read more

Customer Reviews (12)

Too technical
I love to do Yoga with my grandchildren, but this book was more reading than anything.

Cute Book!
I brought this book to introduce yoga to my little ones (2 & 4) they LOVE it.It is easy to follow & fun to do with them.

My Toddler ADORES This!!!!!
We try to use this book every day, often more than once per day.My 2 1/2 year old has so much fun with the poses and games in the book.This is one of the best children's yoga books out there!

Good for Toddlers, Not so much Preschoolers
This is a great book with really creative ideas to do with those 18 mo - 3 yr olds. I was disappointed that these were not really challenging enough for the 3 1/2 to PreK 5 year olds, since the book said Toddlers AND Preschoolers.As a caregiver I tried a few of these out with some 4 year olds and it didn't really hold their attention, even when using the suggested challenges in the "Yogi Wogi" section. For the 2 year olds however it was right on, and good fun. If the author came out with a book for the older Preschool student I think I would give it a try.

a nice follow up to the first one
i bought this to have the follow up for itsy bitsy yoga for infants. it follows in the spirit of the first book and it does great.

it doesn't say though how to slow down a toddler long enough for yoga but i guess i have to figure that one out.

if you liked the first one, you'll like this one.save yourself the hassle and get the together if you can. ... Read more

Product Description
The long-awaited, complete guide to the popular, vigorous American method of yoga that is deeply rooted in ancient wisdom and scriptures

“In this day and age of health and fitness trends, it is assuring to know that Sharon and David encourage their students to draw inspiration from the classical texts of Yoga and timeless scriptural sources. What I appreciate so much about David and Sharon is how they help their Yoga students to understand and appreciate the wisdom of all the great saints and jivamuktas who have contributed to raising consciousness. Ultimately, it is Self-Realization, that is the true goal of Yoga.”
–SRI SWAMI SATCHIDANANDA

Creators of the extremely popular Jivamukti Yoga method and cofounders of the New York City studios where it is taught, Sharon Gannon and David Life present their unique style of yoga for the first time in book form. As they explain their intensely physical and spiritual system of flowing postures, they provide inspiring expert instruction to guide you in your practice.

Unlike many books about yoga, Jivamukti Yoga focuses not only on the physical postures but also on how they evolved–the origins of the practices in yoga’s ancient sacred texts and five-thousand-year-old traditions–the psychotherapeutic benefits that accrue with a steady practice, and the spiritual power that is set free when energy flows throughout the mind and body. Jivamukti Yoga, which means “soul liberation,” guides your body and soul into spiritual freedom, physical strength, peace of mind, better health, and Self-realization–the ultimate goal of any practice. Gannon and Life help you understand each of the practices that comprise the yoga path to enlightenment:
AHIMSA–The Way of Compassion: choosing nonviolence, respecting all life, practicing vegetarianism, living free of prejudice
ASANA–The Way of Connection to the Earth: postures and sequences, breathing, transforming energy, understanding the bandhas
KARMA–The Way of Action: creating good karma, giving thanks
NADAM–The Way of Sacred Music: appreciating the sacred sounds of yoga
MEDITATION–The Way of the Witness: how to sit still and move inward
BHAKTI–The Way of Devotion to God: living with love, grace, and peace

Whatever yoga you practice, Jivamukti Yoga will help you to strengthen and deepen that practice and lead you onto a path of spiritual clarity and self-discovery.

“If there is only one book you read about the practice of Yoga, this should be the one. Sharon and David are deeply dedicated students and teachers of Yoga who have the rare capacity to translate their profound understanding to the reader. This book is for anyone who wishes to find transformation through Yoga. I’m grateful for their work and teaching.”
–STEPHAN RECHTSCHAFFEN, MD
Co-founder & CEO, Omega Institute
... Read more

Customer Reviews (38)

Jivamukti Yoga: Serious book for serious aspirants...
If you have an issue with "brand name" yoga, then leave it at the door. Jivamukti Yoga is for those seriously seeking a book on yogic principles without feeling spoon-fed. Sharon and David offer a revolutionary approach to teaching that is rare and necessary in a time when yoga teachers and yoga teacher training comes at a dime a dozen; and most teachers are incapable of communicating to the Western yogi/yogini the reason why 8-limbed astanga yoga principles are so important without loosing the true essence of the ancient teaching. Excellent!

Must have yoga book!
I have practiced yoga for the past 8 years. I am also training to be a yoga teacher. I have read just about every piece of literature on yoga.This book is by far the best book that I have read on the practice, philosophy, and structure of yoga for me.I love Ashtanga and Hatha yoga, but was missing something from the two.Well, I found it with Jivamukti.I love the music, and freedom to be who I am in yoga, and not what the teacher wants me to become.I am a work in progress, and want the opportunity to find self-realization through my journey.This book gives you the tools to adjust and find your spirituality as you see fit.It may not be right for everyone, but lets face it, most of us live in the US and need to incorporate the way of a yogi or yogini to our lives.I am a westerner, and this is the yoga for me in my Karmic path.It fits my life for now.I just hope to have the opportunity to study under David and Sharron.Their wealth of knowledge and love for yoga is addictive.

Great book for the yogi looking to deepen his/her practice!
A good read for the aspiring yoga teacher in training. The yoga lifestyle presented by two masters.

Jivamukti laid out
This is an excellent book setting out the personal, spiritual, political, psychological, ethical, musical and physical aspects of Jivamukti yoga. It is highly readable, well laid out and accessible. But not simplistic. It is a solid, fascinating read that weaves yoga, philosophy, ancient terms, quotations and modern life issues seamlessly into a lovely whole. Kind of like the Jivamukti practice itself.

Now - when are they going to release a DVD of their full length Jivamukti class? Soon please - for those of us whose nearest Jivamukti accredited teachers are an hour and a half drive away.

Certain chapters such as the one on Karma and the one on vegetarianism stay in your mind and while confronting, work away at you. Mine chapters on these topics are covered in myriad margin notes. As a farm raised girl I thought some of the comments about not using milk from cows or eggs from chickens because of cruel animal practices reflected a very old view of choices about these options. For example, in Australia we have options of free range organic eggs certified as being from chickens who do run around outside in the sun, eat natural food only and walk voluntarily to their bird cages at night for food, shelter, fresh straw and to avoid being attacked by foxes. I of course agree totally with their comments about battery farming of hens as being cruel and unacceptable. Similarly their material on cow milk production did not cover cruelty organic free options now available. I read recently that the Dalai Lama had tried to be vegetarian but failed, so I guess he and I are struggling with the ethics of this. It would be terrific if in an updated version of the book they delved into such options so those of us not quite there yet have a pathway to get us there which is not the cold turkey route.
The authors are magnificent physical specimens so the arty black and white photography is not only aesthetically pleasing, it shadows the muscles starkly, so you can see the definitions appropriate for each pose. The break out boxes are useful for added detail but the font size is miniscule. I had to use a magnifying glass to be able to read them. The break out boxes break up the page in interesting ways, so look great, but the tiny font size means many readers could miss the detail contained within. It would be great to have the break out box contents reappear at the end of each chapter as Endnotes at the normal font size.

A incredible source of knowledge and inspiration
The Jivamukti Yoga bookisa constant source of knowledge and inspiration. Suitable for yoga students and teachers alike, the book outlines the Jivamukti Yoga method and philosophy while also, in an accessible way, describing yogic history, philosophy and physical postures.
The writing is straight forward and light and the authors, Jivamukti Yoga founders, Sharon Gannon and David Life, never compromise on the message: yoga as a way to be a kinder, more compassionate human being with an ultimate goal of personal enlightenment.
Every chapter also mixes facts and theory with anecdotes and personal stories of the authors' yogic endeavors.
I keep on returning to this book wheather I have questions regarding the practice, want tips on a new sequencing or need a topic for a class discussion. ... Read more

Product Description
Whether you are seven or fifty-seven, whether you already practice yoga or want to learn, these informative and attractive cards are the ideal answer. They give detailed steps on how to perform the poses, but also increase environmental awareness with tips on how to reduce our impact on the fragile planet. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

Great Cards
The Yoga Plant Deck combines yoga and ways to care for the planet. The cards are divided into Air, Water, Earth, Fire, and Space. They have easier and harder cards. So, there is something for everybody. The cards are beautifully designed and large enough for everyone to see. I like them and would recommend them for yoga mommies and teachers.

Yoga Planet Cards
These were a great buy. Not only have I used them in Kids yoga classes (the kids LOVE them,) I've also used them for inspiration in adult classes.

Yoga Cards
These are excellent cards for use with elementary students as well as for your own personal yoga program.

Yoga for Kids and Parents.
Yoga Planet Deck (Yoga Cards)
Yoga Planet is a collection of 50 cards, each with a simple activity or exercise that will help you incorporate yoga into daily life for yourself and for your children.The cards are divided into groups based on the elements of Air, Earth, Fire, Water and Space.Each of the elements is intended to inspire you in a different way:

Air - breathe to calm, focus and nurture yourself
Earth - build a foundation of strength
Fire - become inspired with passion and conviction
Water - be soothed and refreshed
Space - find time to unwind and think

For each individual element, the cards propose five different types of activity: Breathing, Individual Poses, Partner Poses, Games, and Inspired Action.

Yoga Planet is a very useful supplement to books such as My Daddy is a Pretzel, but its worth goes beyond teaching children who are already open to yoga. These activities provide a way for even children who may be resistant to the idea of yoga to reap its benefits.Children learn best in an immersive environment, and often do best when they do not even realize that they are learning.A child who shows no interest in Individual Poses may be willing to be lifted onto daddy's back to try a fun Partner Pose like The Knapsack.Carrying a cup of water around an obstacle course in a Game like Go With the Flow can painlessly motivate a child to learn how to move their body smoothly and carefully.And Inspired Actions like a Secret Mission to do a good deed can integrate the values and principles of yoga into a child's life even if they never do a single pose.Yoga Planet is an ideal tool for bringing yoga into a child's life in a natural and unstructured way, and can even do the same for busy dads as well!

Yoga Planet
This is a great follow up to the Yoga Pretzels Deck. I love the environmental theme that runs through it. The organization by what I believe are Auyervedic elements (Earth, Air, Fire, Space and Water) is a nice touch. It makes it take a little longer to find a balance pose vs. a breath to practice but it also adds another layer to your practice. My students are really enjoying it so far! The Laughing Circle and Appreciation Circle were a lot of fun. I did the Laughing Circle with 2nd-4th graders and the Appreciation Circle with K-1 students. ... Read more

Product Description

Take the natural path to mental wellness

More than 25 million Americans are treated with antidepressants each year, at a cost in excess of $50 billion. But the side effects of popular prescription drugs may seem nearly as depressing as the symptoms they’re meant to treat. Veteran yoga instructor Amy Weintraub offers a better solution—one that taps the scientifically proven link between yoga and emotional well-being as well as the beauty of ancient approaches to inner peace.

Addressing a range of diagnoses, including dysthymia, anxiety-based depression, and bipolar disorder, Yoga for Depression reveals why specific postures, breathing practices, and meditation techniques can ease suffering and release life’s traumas and losses. Weintraub also reflects on her own experience with severe depression, from which she recovered through immersing herself in a daily yoga routine.
Yoga for Depression is the first yoga book devoted exclusively to the treatment of these debilitating conditions. Amy Weintraub will help readers see their suffering and themselves in a vibrant new light.

Customer Reviews (18)

Yoga for Depression
This book is a fantastic contribution to the wholistic healing movement.It is well researched and well-written.Amy Weintraub explains the condition of depression from an Eastern standpoint very well.Then she gives solutions to help relieve depression and explains them with ease.Her solution is obviously yoga.A little bit of daily discipline is all that is required.I am looking forward to to a better and healthier way of thinking.Thank you Amy.

Great Book!!Very peaceful and helpful
I didn't think that the things this book teaches you could actually work.Well they do!With the help of this book I can catch myself and prevent a panic attack from happening and its so easy.I highly recommend this book.The author makes you feel so comfortable with yourself and helps you really connect on a universal level to find peace within yourself!

This book is a delight
This book is a delight to read...and I suspect it will be for you even if you have never considered yoga as a way to improve your mood. I am the author of The Food-Mood Solution, but I recognize that there are many different drug-free paths to improving our brain chemistry and achieving more balance in life. The key is finding the path that works best for you. Although the book's emphasis is obviously on using yoga to reverse depression, almost every page contains thoughtful pearls of wisdom about navigating life's experiences. Amy has done a wonderful job of translating her experiences in life to benefit others.

Yoga for Depression
I love this book.It has alot of excellent information to help people who are suffering from depression.I am a yoga teacher and find that the poses they suggest are wonderful to relieve many symptoms of sadness.I purchased 2 additional book for my girlfriends.

Yoga for Depression review
A well-researched, well-written book which has inspired me to commit to daily yoga. Amy Weintraub illustrates convincingly the benefits yoga can bring to a depressed person, without condemning conventional medicine. Instead she recommends a mixture of yoga, medication and talk therapy to suit each individual. This book is inspiring and gives me hope. ... Read more

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Customer Reviews (18)

Super cute and fun
My little girl loves yoga.The book has great pictures and at the end it gives parents something to read to better help work with the poses.

Great for Toddler Yoga
I am a yoga teacher and use this book A LOT! I appreciate the simple pictures and phrases.The kids love the pictures in the back of real kids doing all of the poses listed in the book.Wonderful!

yo! yoga!
my two year old daughter will pull out this book and her yoga mat when she wants to 'stretch' like her mommy.

great book for bonding, and a great beginning to teach our little ones about the fun to be had in yoga!!!!!

we have had so much fun and created so many fun memories! we absolutely love this book!!!!

Best yoga book for kids out there!
My sister (2 years old at the time) loved doing yoga with me and was starting to make me lookbad with her natural flexibility! :P

I wanted to find her a fun yoga book and checked out every single yoga for kids book and DVD from the library. This one was by far the winner. Some of the books were way too difficult and boring for her (My Daddy is a Pretzel) and some were just too weird (Wai Lana's Little Yogis VHS).

The first time we read this book she immediately jumped up and started trying the poses, all of which are perfect for kids and not so difficult that they get discouraged. She loved repeating back the animal noises and demanded that we read it again the second we finished reading it!

I also thought the illustrations were some of the cutest I've ever seen. The kids actually look like kids! I'm not digging the trend in kids' illustrations that make kids look like miniature emaciated adults.

Anyway, after reading it everyday while I had it from the library, I bought it here on Amazon along with Sleepy Little Yoga for her birthday. Now, at the ripe old age of 3 she's mastered all of the poses in this book and we can do the same poses together when I do yoga!

Great First Yoga Book!
My daughter (14 months) really loves this book. I didn't know if she would and honestly purchased it because I practice, but she thoroughly enjoys the illustrations and the pictures of the toddlers in the poses.I am going to purchase for friends who have little ones. ... Read more

Product Description
To keep their faces looking younger, women today try everything from invasive procedures such as plastic surgery and Botox to expensive cosmeceuticals. "Yotox" is a new and completely natural alternative anti-aging regimen that women can do anytime and anywhere-and in just minutes. The exercises, developed by yoga expert and instructor Annelise Hagen, are based on a simple principle: The muscles of the face are no different from the muscles of the rest of the body. If you don't exercise the muscles below the neck, they become weak and flabby, and the same thing will happen to your face with age. Just as yoga routines work the muscles in the body, the stretches and movements in Yotox tighten and tone the face muscles-and combat wrinkles. "Working out" with fun facial exercises such as the Louis Armstrong "Satchmo," the Marilyn Monroe "kiss," and the "Lion Face," readers will notice changes quickly; and over time, the results are dramatic. Illustrated with more than seventy-five instructive photos throughout, Yotox offers an easy, safe, and effective solution to help women turn back the clock and have beautiful, young-looking skin. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (25)

Helpful
I READ THIS BOOK AND FEEL IT WOULD B HELPFUL 2 THOSE LOOKING TO IMPROVE THEMSELVES.

My Face Thanks You!
The exercises in the book really do help firm and tone the jaw line.I am working on the neck area now and starting to see some results.I am pleased.

The Yoga Face
I had already read this book and wanted to have a copy to have on hand.

Yoga Face
I'm not sorry I bought it, but much of the book seems to have nothing to do with facial exercises or faces at all really. It just reiterates what many other yoga books have to say about asana practice, and what is unique in it could have been published as a pamphlet.

THE YOGA FACE
I am very happy with this product. . .so far I haven't had it long enough
to know if there are results, but can say my facial muscles feel much
better.

also, the delivery time and condition of this product was excellent. . .
exactly as you said it would be. ... Read more

Product Description
This book has been specially designed by the author keeping in mind the needs of the students of Yoga in Europe and America,who need practical but non-technical presentation of the subject in a language accessible to the beginner in the path.

At the end of the book an Appendix has been added and a glossary of Sanskrit terms given. ... Read more

Product Description

Everyday activities such as using the computer, driving, or even curling up with a good book can create tension in the neck and shoulders. It's no wonder that so many of us have persistent discomfort and pain in these areas. Healing Yoga for Neck and Shoulder Pain presents simple, yoga-based practices that you can do at work and at home to release muscle tension for immediate relief.

After suffering from chronic neck pain for years, author and yoga therapist Carol Krucoff developed the unique self-care program found in this book. Now you, too, can free yourself from neck pain by practicing simple yoga exercises to stretch tight muscles and strengthen weak ones and by learning to properly align your body when performing everyday activities that may be contributing to your pain. This fully illustrated, easy to follow guidebook also addresses common problems that may accompany neck tension, including headaches, upper back pain, and stress.

"In this wonderful, easy-to-read-and-use book, Carol Krucoff has gracefully and intelligently integrated several important healing traditions in order to bring relief to those suffering from neck and shoulder pain and the pain of stress. I recommend it enthusiastically as a friendly vehicle anyone can use to explore and experience the amazing power and healing potential of these human bodies."
--Jeffrey Brantley, MD, director of the Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Program at Duke Integrative Medicine, and coauthor of Five Good Minutes® in Your Body

"Unlike modern medicine, which often does little more than suppress the symptoms of neck problems with painkillers, yoga can get at the root causes of pain. In this wonderful book, Krucoff demonstrates safe, gentle, and effective strategies to lessen neck and shoulder discomfort. Be careful, though--yoga's side effects include peace of mind, improved mood, and better sleep. You could get hooked!"
--Timothy McCall, MD, medical editor of Yoga Journal and author of Yoga as Medicine

"What a gift Krucoff has given us! These practices guide us in both postural and emotional healing of the neck and shoulders by allowing the energy to flow freely, uniting head to body and head to heart. This brings about a sense of balance and ease, reminding us of our joyful nature."
--Nischala Joy Devi, author The Healing Path of Yoga and The Secret Power of Yoga

Customer Reviews (14)

Very good self-help book for neck and shoulder issues
I have chronic tightness in my upper back, neck, and shoulders.I am well aware that yoga can be a helpful form of self-care, and in fact I practice yoga at home regularly several times a week.However, I thought that this book might provide me with some new information.

Author Carol Krucoff, a yoga therapist, asserts that yoga can help address pain on several levels:physical, psychological, and energetic.She acknowledges that neck pain is common, but rather than view neck pain as a disease, she suggests that is a phenomenon which can be controlled.Krucoff maintains that yoga offers healing through the practice of postures, breathing exercises, mindfulness, and meditation.Before getting into the actual yogic practices, Krucoff provides some basic anatomical information.She includes several different types of postural self-tests, from checking to make sure you aren't holding your head too far forward to performing a body scan awareness exercise to reviewing standing alignment.

The information on the actual practice of yoga begins about halfway through the book.Krucoff presents simple, basic postures, starting with breath awareness, body scan, and deep abdominal breathing.From there she introduces easy neck release and neck stretch poses, gradually moving the stretches into the upper back/shoulders as well as the lower back.She incorporates some postures focused on strength and balance, such as tree pose, and others designed more to stretch and strengthen (these fall under two categories:those for the neck and shoulders, which are performed seated in a chair, and those to target the back, which are performed lying face down).Modifications are offered for many of the poses, all of which are illustrated with straightforward line drawings.Krucoff concludes with some tips on keeping the neck healthy both on and off the mat.

Overall, this book provides some very good information for the self-management of neck and shoulder problems.The only reason that I rated it 4 rather than 5 stars is because it didn't provide me with any new information.As mentioned above, I am already using yoga to address my own chronic upper back, neck, and shoulder tightness.I have found several yoga DVDs to be particularly helpful:Yoga in the Garden of Serenity (the Neck & Shoulders chapter), Yoga: Relief from Neck and Shoulder Pain, Viniyoga Therapy for the Upper Back, Neck & Shoulders with Gary Kraftsow, and Yoga to the Rescue for Neck & Shoulders.

Health and general collections where yoga and workplace health are of interest will relish this title
Healing Yoga for Neck & Shoulder Pain: Easy, Effective Practices for Releasing Tension & Relieving Pain provides readers with simple, yoga-based practices that can be done at home and work to relieve muscle tension. It's a unique self-care program developed by the author herself, so is not to be found in competing collections. Health and general collections where yoga and workplace health are of interest will relish this title.

disappointed
I was very disappointed with this book.
I was hoping for some specific exercises for neck
and shoulder problems. Instead its just a basic routine,
do them all but if something hurts dont do it.
Thats not what I bought the book for.
It gives lip service to the anatomy of the shoulder.
The little it says seems pasted in from some
other source and its never referred to at all.
No interest is shown in the clavicles (collar bones) and very little
mention even given to the scapulae (shoulder blades).
Way too much time is spent on relaxation, breathing,
and meditation.
Any old yoga book that you have lying around will
do as well or better than this book.

Your neck and shoulders will thank you
Ms. Krucoff truely knows her anatomy.
This book is easy to follow and understand.
The format is well laid out and makes it understandable for all levels of anatomy knowledge.
If you suffer from neck and shoulder pain or are a yoga teacher I recommend you buy this.
It is also not to wordy with many visuals.

Relief!
Krucoff's clear, easy-to-follow instructions taught me to release the tension and mitigate the pain that often result from a long automobile commute to a job where I sit at a desk and work at a computer most of the day. Thank you! ... Read more