Product Description This overview of the essentials of Yoga?understood not merely as a system of exercises but as a full-fledged spiritual tradition?is meant to both broaden and deepen the understanding of beginning students. It covers all the basic elements of this ancient discipline and philosophy of India and includes newly translated excerpts from the scriptures. Special attention is given to branches of Yoga, such as Tantra, that are of great interest to Western students but frequently misunderstood. The topics covered include: The principal branches of Yoga Moral principles Meditation and concentration Control of the breath The physical exercises of Hatha Yoga Diet Mantras: sacred sounds of power The powerful psychospiritual energy known as Kundalini The transmutation of sexual energy The teacher-student relationship Suggestions for further reading and other resources
Awesome!June 9, 2008 Though I don't practice Yoga, just Qi-Gong. I find this book very informative and a must have to read for those not know much or history of the spirituality of Yoga. All the different Yoga, beliefs, and what you may not know of any of the Yoga you might had/is practicing.
A little treasure on my bookshelfMarch 3, 2008 This book is amazing! I learned so much that no one is really about to talk about in a yoga class. The history of yoga was only scratching the surface, but it was still so much to absorb. This is a powerful book.
Interesting history and tools for Yoga teachers in trainingFebruary 7, 2007 2 out of 2 found this review helpful
I'm in training to become a Yoga teacher. This is a book I will come back over and over again to share information with my students when I start teaching.
Like the others said, great introduction to Yoga!July 6, 2001 14 out of 15 found this review helpful
When looking for books on Yoga, I had no idea where to start and I didn't want to read some...American trying to cash in book. I saw this book and it seemed real. Wow, I'm glad this is the first book I read on Yoga. Georg Feurstein fully knows and understands the essence of Yoga. The book touches on everything from the history of Yoga to a Yogi's diet. I like how Feurstein always refers back to the old Sanskrit texts of Yogi practices. However, if you are looking for a book where you actually do the postures then look for another book because this book doesn't satisfy that. You should read all you can about Yoga before attempting it, I know my presumptions on Yoga have been changed from reading this book.
Great introduction to Yoga.August 22, 1999 12 out of 13 found this review helpful
This book gave me a clearer understanding of Yoga. My greatest compliment is that it sustained my interest enough to read the book to the end. I enjoyed the humanistic tone of the book, and the simple ordering and structure of topics which brought clarity to a potentially overwhelming subject. I look forward very much to reading more of Georg Feuerstein's books.
