Books on Yoga

Each of these texts can be read, reflected and contemplated upon for years and years, over and over again. These books will be with you throughout your lifetime journey on the path of Yoga.

Yoga Sutras of Patanjali*

The Sanskrit definition of Yoga is union of body, mind, soul, and spirit. The Yoga Sutras are a practical textbook to guide your journey towards remembering that union. The Yoga Sutras contain 196 short sentences or “sutras” divided between four chapters, discussing the aim and practice of yoga, the development of yogic strengths and finally, freedom from the limitations of the mind. This text is for the Yogi who has desire to contemplate the deeper truths of life as revealed through the practices of Yoga.

Light on Yoga

This modern book is a wonderful guide to the practice of Yoga for exercise, meditation, or simply relaxation. It includes pictures of the postures (asana), breathwork (pranayama) practices and a great beginner friendly introduction on the 8 limbs of Yoga.

Bhagavad Gita*

This text is often referred to as the essence of all the scriptures. As is common in many Sanskrit texts, The Gita is set in a narrative framework of a dialogue between student and teacher.. The first time I read The Bhagavad Gita I thought it was simply about a war. Studying it many times since then, the deeper truths and wisdom of how to live our daily life continues to unfold. The text covers Jñāna, Bhakti, Karma, and Rāja yogas.

*These texts are very dense and are traditionally studied with a qualified teacher. Since the information in these texts was originally spoken, later written in Sanskrit, whichever version you choose to study will be translation and commentary on the original slokas. Your reflection and contemplation on the information contained within these texts is essential for allowing the teachings to come to life within you.