yoga malaSeptember 30, 2007 5 out of 5 found this review helpful
This book is a must for ashtanga practitioners, having been written by the guru of this form of yoga, Sri K Pattabhi Jois. The forward by Eddie Stern provides an interesting background of the life of Pattabhi Jois and how he came to teach western students. The opening chapter describes what is meant by 'ashtanga' (eight limbs) of yoga, with valuable information regarding yogic philosophy, lifestyle and dietary concerns, quoting from the ancient texts. Following is a detailed description of the vinyasa/asana practice. Ashtanga is a challenging and methodical practice of yoga, with emphasis on correct method; from the first sun salutation to the final resting position, there is exact placement of the gaze, the timing of the breath, and sequence of movement. Those with an interest in yoga generally, or who practice a different form, may also find this book of value, since yoga is yoga and the ultimate "goal" is the same. It is my feeling, however, that without an existing practice and enthusiasm for this method, the book may seem a little dry in the last section.
I have had a copy with me for years, it is an invaluable reference.
Yoga Mala Book ReviewApril 4, 2007 1 out of 7 found this review helpful
The book arrived in perfect condition and in a timely manner.
Necessary for anyone practicing Ashtanga yogaApril 10, 2006 9 out of 9 found this review helpful
This book is a must for any Ashtanga practicioner. The beginning of the book describes the philosophy. The rest shows pictures of Jois and grandson Sharath in the poses as well as detailed explainations.
GreatJanuary 21, 2006 8 out of 8 found this review helpful
Yoga Mala is written by a living legend with many years of practice and teaching experience. I would recommend this book only to those already familiar with Ashtanga, as parts of it will make no sense unless you are. Indispensable knowledge is interspersed with lovely throwbacks to earlier days in India, eg. the part where it is suggested a nice flat floor smeared with cow dung is essential to any good practice space. Gotta love it!
Good Ashtanga BookJanuary 12, 2006 11 out of 13 found this review helpful
I have a personal library of about 50 yoga books. This one is not one of my top ten, but it is a soild book. It's like the "Light on Yoga" of the Ashtanga world.
I wouldn't recommend this book unless you wanted a book specifically about Ashtanga, otherwise their are so many other better books on yoga. If you want a book about Ashtanga, then this and David Swenson's books are the best on that style of yoga.
