100th Monkey Books

Hatha Yoga



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Back Care Basics: A Doctor's Gentle Yoga Program for Back & Neck Pain Relief
Mary Pullig Schatz (1992) 248pages, with photographs

This book outlines a safe, effective, low-cost approach to back rehabilitation without drugs or surgery. You'll learn a simple and practical system to heal your back, restructure your body, and cope with stress. You'll learn how your daily activities may be hurting your back and how to modify them to prevent pain and injury. You'll become more sensitive to early warning signs of an impending "back attack" and learn what to do to ward it off. Most important, you'll learn a fitness program based on a philosophy that encourages both positive health practices and a positive outlook....This program is based on my own personal back recovery and my experience of over thirteen years of working with patients and yoga students with chronic back and neck pain. Its origins lie in the ancient art of hatha yoga, as refined by B.K.S. Iyengar. - from the author's chapter one Yoga: The Way Back to Health (Rodmell)



Basic Yoga for Everybody: 84 Yoga Cards with Accompanying Handbook (71pages)
Gertrud Hirschi (1998)

No more standing on your head while you turn the pages of a book! Instead, pick 8 illustrated, instructive cards and place them in front of you while you work each yoga position. You can deal out exercises that are designed to be kind to your back and holistic in approach. An easy-to-use handbook describes the color sequences and how to combine the yoga cards. The book also provides basic information on breathing and easy meditation techniques, as well as the use of mudra (hand position) in the exercises. (Samuel Weiser)



Beat Fatigue with Yoga: A Step-by-Step Guide
Fiona Agombar (1999) 159pages, illustrated.

You're tired all the time, you're exhausted even - and you want to know how you can get more energy. Can this book help you? Well, I have witnessed many, many people with fatigue improve their quality of life dramatically by using yoga. With practice, you will become calmer, less stressed, and more content.... In this book we are going to look at prana, and I will show you how you can use this energy and gain endless vitality. There are some simple postures to practise, together with visualizations and breathing exercises that will dramatically increase your stamina - and really help you to beat fatigue. - from the author's Introduction (Element)



Breath, Mind, and Consciousness
Harish Johari (1989) 85pages

Harish Johari brings an in-depth knowledge of ancient Hindu sciences to this discussion of breath and the yoga of balanced living. He explains the sensory network of the nose, and its effect on the subtle channels of energy throughout the body, showing the direct link between the practice of conscious breathing and the electrochemical balance of the brain and nervous system. He also shows how the breath, alternating between left and right nostrils, is influenced by solar and lunar forces and how one can attune to these natural rhythms and universal laws for greater health and well-being. Johari mastery of Swara Yoga techniques is apparent in the broad scope of Breath, Mind, and Consciousness: included are a discussion of the phases of the five elements in the breathing cycle, exercises for physical and psychic healing, the means for determining which nostril is active, and instructions for conceiving a son or a daughter. (Destiny Books)



Children's Book of Yoga: Games & Exercises Mimic Plants & Animals & Objects
Thia Luby (1998) 111pages

Imagine you are a cat, a bird, a car, or a rabbit. Learn yoga and have fun with your friends. Yoga games and exercises are something everyone can do. Entertaining yoga workouts for children ages 3 to 12. How to teach yoga to one child or a group - instructions for parents and teachers. (Clear Light)





The Complete Illustrated Book of Yoga
Swami Vishnu-devananda (1960/88) 359pages (with 146 b & w photographs)

This book is presented as an offering to each individual to make the simple willful decision to live a divine life in harmony with the inextricable laws of nature. If there is a will and the desire to realize limitless spiritual potential, then the practical methods of Yoga self-discipline and mind control outlined herein will prove invaluable. I have been religiously true to the ancient teachings of Hatha Yoga, as well as other forms, such as Kundalini Yoga, Raja Yoga, and Jnana Yoga. I have invented nothing new, only presented this perfect science of self-development in a format comprehensible for an analytic-minded era. - from the author's 1988 Preface (Three Rivers / Crown)



The Essentials of Yoga
Dinabandhu and Ila Sarley (1999) 200pages

An Omega Institute Mind, Body, Spirit Book. Chapters One to Eleven: What is Yoga?; The Benefits of Yoga; The Different Schools of Yoga; Taking Your Practice Off the Mat; Working with the Breath; Moving into Postures; Standing Postures; Floor Postures; Suggested Routines; Yoga in Community; Creating Your Own Path.
This book is written with the same intentions with which we opened the doors of Omega: learning, community, and spirit. It is designed to give you a friendly, comprehensive overview both of the practice of yoga and of the body-mind connectedness that is inherent to its study. Enjoy! - from the authors' Introduction (Dell)



Fly Like A Butterfly: Yoga for Children
Shakta Kaur Khalsa (1998) 117pages

Shakta Kaur Khalsa takes children on her fun-filled romp of yoga interlaced with stories, songs, and quiet time. Beautiful photos of young students holding simple yoga poses guide readers through the book. Written with the beginner in mind, the book is designed so parents can read along with their children. Older children can read by themselves using the photos as guides. A must for parents and teachers interested in movement, self-esteem, quieting the mind and body, and all-out fun! (Rudra Press)




Hatha Yoga: The Hidden Language - Symbols, Secrets, and Metaphor
Swami Sivananda Radha (1987) 308pages

Swami Sivananda Radha's approach has as its basis the traditional descriptions and names of a number of classical yoga asanas. The asanas are named in groups: animals, plants, birds, structures. Using symbol and metaphor, students are guided to discover for themselves the deeper meanings hidden in the postures. The asana are mudras or seals which the student can unlock through practice and reflection. This "unsealing" is an inner release that leads to a deeper psychological understanding - "being in touch with oneself." As the asana is penetrated, intuitive insight emerges and the spiritual dimension may be experienced. Swami Radha's focus is on allowing the Light to enter the bodymind, and in so doing, becoming open to divine inspiration. (Timeless Books)



Hatha Yoga: The Yogi Philosophy of Physical Well-Being
Yogi Ramacharaka (1930) 243pages



Health, Healing & Beyond: Yoga & the Living Tradition Of Krishnamacharya
T.K.V. Desikachar with R.H. Cravens (1998) 211pages

Health, Healing, and Beyond is the long-awaited biographical profile and exploration of the work of the teacher of many Yoga's greatest exponents - including B.K.S. Iyengar, Indra Devi, and J.B.S. Pattabhi Jois. it is the story of dedication to a single purpose - to place the benefits of Yoga at the service of humanity. This lively, affectionate account is written by Krisnamacharya's son, T.K.V. Desikachar. Desikarchar also provides a lucid introduction to ancient Sanskrit texts, including the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, which are the foundation of Yoga as a "science of the mind." (Aperture)


The Heart of Yoga: Developing a Personal Practice
T.K.V. Desikachar (1995) 244pages

Sri Tirumalai Krishnamacharya, who lived to be over 100 years old, was one of the greatest yogis of the modern era. He taught that the practices of yoga must be continually adapted to the individual's changing needs in order to achieve the maximum therapeutic value. In The Heart of Yoga, T. K. V. Desikachar, Krishnamacharya's son, offers a distillation of his father's system, known as viniyoga; as well as the essence of his own practical approach, which he describes as "basically a program for the spine at every level - physical, mental, and spiritual." Krishnamacharya based his teachings on a number of scriptural sources, but he placed the highest value on Patanjali's Yoga Sutra. Part three of The Heart of Yoga includes the complete text of the Sutra - including the Sanskrit - with a translation and Desikarchar that includes the insights and tradition passed to him by his father. Accompanying the text are more than 90 photos of Krishnamacharya and his family and students that provide a glimpse into authentic yoga practice.(Inner Traditions)



How To Use Yoga: A step-by-step guide to the Iyengar method of yoga, for relaxation, health and well-being
Mira Mehta (1998) 96pages with over 450 photographs

The first part, Towards Physical Well-being, presents a carefully chosen selection of 41 postures and variants, which can be attempted by beginners of all ages. Principal techniques are shown at every stage, so that the postures can easily be followed by everyone. The following section, Towards Mental Peace, introduces simple techniques for breath awareness and control. * The second part, A Ten-Week Course, presents a unique course for beginners, especially devised by the author for this book - a ten-week program of postures and preparatory breath control techniques, with a photographic catalog for each week for instant visual reference. * The book also includes a section on postures helpful for common problems, such as headaches, stiffness, pain in the neck and shoulders, backache and stiffness of the hips, as well as a special program suitable during menstruation. (Rodmell)



Integral Yoga Hatha
Yogiraj Sri Swami Satchidananda (1970) 189pages (op)

Part 1 Nethra Vyayamam or the Eye Exercises. Part 2 Soorya Namaskaram or Salutation to the Sun. Part 3 Meditative Poses. Part 4 Cultural Poses. Part 5 Pranayamas. Part 6 Bandhas. Part 7 Mudras. Part 8 Shat Kriyas or the Six Purification Exercises: 1. Dhauti or Stomach Cleansing 2. Basti or Colon Cleansing 3. Neti or Nasal Cleansing 4. Thratakam or Gazing 5. Nauli Kriya or the Isolation and Rolling of the Abdominal Recti 6. Kapalabhati or the Skull Shining (Integral Yoga Publications)



Joints and Glands Exercises: as taught by Sri Swami Rama of the Himalayas
edited by Rudolph M. Ballentine (1977) 85pages

The practice of joints and glands exercises can be used to prepare the student for the practice of hatha yoga or they can be used simply for their own intrinsic value. The exercises are arranged in a very systematic way: the student starts at the top of his head and continues downward, exercising and massaging almost all of the joints and glands. Each part of the body receives a good supply of blood. The muscles are made supple, more flexible, the joints and the glands are toned and made to function properly. These exercises are highly recommended for persons suffering from arthritis, rheumatism or stiffness. - from the Introduction (Himalayan Institute Press)



Light on Yoga: Yoga Dipika (revised edition)
B.K.S. Iyengar (1966/79) 544pages

The title of this book is Light on Yoga (Yoga Dipika in Sanskrit), as my purpose is to describe as simply as possible the asanas (postures) and pranayamas (breathing disciplines) in the new light of our own era, its knowledge and its requirements. Instructions on asana and pranayama are therefore given in great detail and are based on my experience for over twenty-seven years in many parts of the world. It contains the complete technique of 200 asanas with 592 photographs from which the asanas can be mastered; and it also covers bandha, kriya and pranayama with a further 5 photographs. - from the author's Preface (Schocken)



Philosophy of Hatha Yoga (2nd edition, revised & expanded)
Usharbudh Arya (1977/85) 95pages

Clear and easy to follow, Philosophy of Hatha Yoga views hatha within the framework of raja yoga, as promulgated by Patanjali, in the Yoga Sutras, the most authoritative text on the science of yoga. Because hatha is not merely a system of physical exercises, this work emphasizes the paramount role that the mind plays in the postures; it demonstrates how to elevate the practices of hatha to an inner spiritual experience and explains how the practice of hatha yoga can serve as a means to prepare for meditation and the awakening of the kundalini force. (Himalayan Institute Press)



Power Yoga: The Total Strength and Flexibility Workout
Beryl Bender Birch (1995) 286pages

Based on the classical and original yoga system called astanga, Power Yoga is a complete mind and body workout that develops concentration and reduces stress. With its focus on mindful breathing and body heat, Power Yoga offers a route to health and fitness that athletes of all levels will embrace. (Fireside / Simon & Schuster)




Recovery Yoga: A Practical Guide for Chronically Ill, Injured, and Post-operative People
Sam Dworkis (1997) 156pages, illustrated.

I have spent the better part of my adult life studying the mechanics of the body and how and why it responds to yoga and relaxation-meditation. Through the years, I have taught a wide array of people, from world-class athletes to persons so ill or injured that they could not walk. Not necessarily through intention, but through circumstance, I developed a special affinity for working with chronically ill and injured people and have learned how to adapt yoga to stimulate wellness of mind and body. I have seen these techniques work on countless numbers of chronically ill, injured, and postoperative people. And now, again through circumstance, I am utilizing these very principles myself. I do not take a Pollyanna approach to your health (or mine). I do not suggest that following this program will lead you to perfect health. What I do suggest is that you can use this program to minimize the sinking feeling that your health, your life, or your mind is out of control. Although you may have a chronic and debilitating disease or injury or may be recovering from surgery, you do not have to feel defeated. - from the author's Introduction: I Know How You Feel (Three Rivers / Crown)



Relax Renew: Restful Yoga for Stressful Times
Judith Lasater (1995) 240pages, with photographs

Whether you have five minutes or an hour, taking time each day to relax and renew is essential to living well. Devoted exclusively to restorative yoga, Relax and Renew offers: * a general sequence of sported yoga postures and breathing techniques to heal the effects of chronic stress * programs for back pain, headaches, insomnia, jet lag, and breathing problems * a special section for women during menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause * practical suggestions that help you prevent stress and live more fully in the present moment (Rodmell)



Science of Breath : A Practical Guide
Swami Rama, Rudolph Ballentine, M.D. & Alan Hymes, M.D. (1979/98)119pages

(Himalayan Institute Press)








Science of Breath
Yogi Ramacharaka (1904) 89pages

Subtitled as: A Complete Manual of the Oriental Breathing Philosophy of Physical, Mental, Psychic and Spiritual Development. (Yogi Publication Society)





The Sivananda Companion to Yoga
Lucy Lidell with Narayani and Giris Rabinovitch (1983) 192pages

A complete illustrated guide to the physical postures, breathing exercises, diet, relaxation and meditation techniques of Yoga. Photography by Fausto Dorelli. A Gaia Original. (Fireside / Simon & Schuster)





Yoga: A Gem for Women
Geeta S. Iyengar (1990) 308pages plus 215 plates

This book is written with my many years of experience and observation but with one objective - to meet the specific needs of women. It does not however, preclude men, as Yoga is useful for both women and men. The book describes simple techniques of Yoga for women and I am happy to be able to share my experience with my sisters through this presentation. - from the author's Preface (Timeless Books)




Yoga: The Iyengar Way - The new definitive illustrated guide
Silva, Mira & Shyam Mehta (1990) 192pages

This book explains the basic principles and practices of Yoga. It is based on the authors' thirty years' study with Yogacharya B. K. S. Iyengar and as teachers of his method. The explanations give help to beginners and expand on some of the finer points which are the hallmark of his teaching. The book is in three parts. Although this division has been made for clarity and convenience, the three parts are integrated. Side by side with the techniques, the book reflects on various philosophical and practical topics. Part I: The Body deals with postures (asanas), giving general guidelines and step-by-step instructions and photographs for 108 postures. A few important ones have been omitted owing to lack of space, but will be found in Light on Yoga and Yoga: A Gem for Women. The sequence of the asanas in this book follows that in Light on Yoga. Part II: The Mind gives guidelines and instructions for breathing techniques (pranayama). It introduces the reader to the concept and technique of control of the senses (pratyahara). This is followed by an outline of Yoga philosophy. Part III: The Soul discusses the goal of Yoga and how it relates to practice. - from the authors' About this Book (Alfred A. Knopf)



Yoga for a New Age: A Modern Approach to Hatha Yoga
Bob Smith and Linda Boudreau (1986) 258pages

(Smith Productions)







Yoga for Body, Breath, and Mind: A Guide to Personal Reintegration
A.G.Mohan (1993) Foreword by Shri T. Krishnamacharya 219pages

Chapters One to Eight: Yoga and Personal Reintegration; Asana - The Role of the Body in Personal Reintegration; The Asanas (20 essential postures); Viparita Karani - Inversion; Vinyasa Krama - Sequencing & Adaptation; Pranayama - The Role of Breath in Personal Reintegration; Meditation; Yoga Therapy. Over 300 illustrations and photographs. (Rudra Press)




Yoga for Children
Mary Stewart and Kathy Phillips(1992), Photography by Sandra Lousada 128pages

Suitable for children three and up - no matter what their physical abilities, Yoga for Children is a safe, healthy, and fun way for families to exercise, play, and grow together. (Fireside / Simon & Schuster)




Yoga for Common Ailments
Dr. Robin Monro, Dr. Nagaranthna & Dr. Nagendra (1990) 95pages

Yoga is a holistic science of well being that brings healing from within. The three-layered approach to yoga therapy - relaxing the muscles, slowing the breathing, and calming the mind - restores inner harmony and counteracts the stress that underlies many common diseases. Based on a system developed by the Vivekananda Yoga Therapy and Research Foundation, Yoga for Common Ailments shows how to use yogic ideas and practices to reduce these inner tensions and heal yourself naturally. Using step-by-step instructions and over 75 illustrations, the book guides you through a Basic Session for maintaining health and fitness. Then it explains how to construct a yoga program tailored to treating more than 35 common ailments, including: Asthma, Back Pain, Bronchitis, Cancer, Common colds and flu, Depression, Diabetes, Fatigue, Heart disease, Hypertension, Insomnia, Obesity, Premenstrual syndrome, and others. (A Gaia Original. Fireside / Simon & Schuster)



Yoga for the Special Child: A Therapeutic Approach for Infants and Children with Down Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, and Learning Abilities
Sonia Sumar (1998) 245pages

An innovative and easy-to-follow program for parents, educators, yoga teachers, and health care professionals. The book includes: A step-by-step, integrated system of yoga pose designed to increase cognitive and motor skills in children with learning and developmental disabilities.; Specialized breathing exercises and relaxation techniques to improve concentration and hyper activity; An early intervention program to assure the healthy formative development of infants and toddlers. (Special Yoga Publications)



Yoga for Women: A Gentler Strength
Paddy O'Brien (1991/1994) 96pages

Yoga for Women includes: a system of exercises to celebrate womanhood, a basic yoga 'vocabulary' of postures and breathing, a programme of postures for life passages from adolescence through pregnancy to old age. It is suitable for complete beginners as well as those with experience and has been illustrated with photographs and line drawings. (Thorsons)




Yoga for Your Life: a practice manual of breath and movement for every body
Margaret D. Pierce and Martin G. Pierce (1996) 160pages

Based on the Krishnamacharya-Desikachar Approach. A practical guide illustrated with full-color photographs. In addition to 8 progressive, easy-to-follow lessons, the book includes 8 special programs that offer useful ways to bring yoga into your life. (Rudra Press)





Yoga Over 50: The Way to Vitality, Health and Energy in the Prime of Life
Mary Stewart (1994) 128pages

*Step-by-step descriptions of yoga positions for active and resting poses. The poses are: Standing Poses; Chair Poses; Upside Down Poses; Lying Flat; Sitting; Forward Bends; Backbends; Twists. * Programs suited to varying degrees of fitness, experience, and flexibility * Exercises to relieve specific problems, including headache, stiffness, and insomnia (Fireside / Simon & Schuster)




A Yoga Parade of Animals: A first book of yoga for children
Pauline Mainland (1998) Illustrated by Chris Perry

Discover and enjoy the benefits of yoga for children. First yoga postures are taught in an easy and fun way through the imaginative use of animal shapes, encouraging through play, better body co-ordination, breathing control and suppleness. Combining easy to follow instructions, photographs and vibrant pictures, this recommended book is perfect for sharing with children of all ages. (Element Children's)




YOGA VIDEOS

Yoga Practice for Beginners
with Patricia Walden (75 minutes video + 52-page booklet)

Patricia Walden presents a contemporary, easy-to follow approach to hatha yoga with a complete range of basic moves - including standing, seated, inverted poses, and relaxation poses. (Healing Arts)





Yoga Practice for Beginners a.m. & p.m.
with Rodney Yee and Patricica Walden

a.m. - Rodney Yee offers a complete 20-minute workout filmed at sunrise on the beaches of Maui: 4' Conscious relaxation connects the breath. 14' a.m.Workout awakens and energizes. 2' seated Guided Meditation centers body and mind.
p.m. - Patricia Walden 20-minute filmed at sunset on the sculpted sands of Death Valley: 4' Centering Series to quiet the body and mind. 13' P.M. Workout stretches the body. 3' Guided Relaxation revitalizes the mind. (Healing Arts)



Yoga Practice for energy
with Rodney Yee (60 minutes video)

Filmed on the island of Maui, Rodney Yee guides you through five practice sessions that follow the cycle of the sun from sunrise to sunset. In this video, movement, breath, and energy are what you focus on. There are no words or narrative instructions, just powerful yoga, energetic landscapes and soothing music for inspiration. Awakening 10' Centering 8' Creativity 14' Reflection 10' Surrender 8' (60 minutes) (Healing Arts)



Yoga Practice for flexibility
with Patricia Walden (85minutes video)

Patricia Walden. offers easy-to-use instruction in two complete 30-minute practice sessions: a dynamic yoga workout to increase vitality; forward bends to cultivate awareness; and backbends to awaken the spine. (Healing Arts)





Yoga Practice for meditation
with Rodney Yee (60 minutes video)

Five sessions with Rodney Yee and inspired by the majestic beauty of Yosemite National Park. Mountain (12') Garden 10' Tree 10' Wind 10' Sky8' (60') (Healing Arts)





Yoga Practice for relaxation
with Patricia Walden (75 minutes video)

Patricia Walden. 2 complete 30-minute practice sessions: gentle flowing poses to quiet body and mind; resting poses to replenish your immune system; deep breathing and guided relaxation to let go of stress. (Healing Arts)



Yoga Practice for strength
with Rodney yee (75 minutes video)

Rodney Yee 2 complete 30-minute: an aerobic yoga workout to build power & stamina; inverted poses to soothe the body; standing and arm balances to develop confidence (75') (Healing Arts)




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