While most people in the world may associate yoga with poses that include bending, stretching and lifting, yoga in its essence is the process of union with the self and the cosmos at large. In the past two decades, the art and process of yoga has caught the attention of people all over the world. Originating in the Indian subcontinent, it is a wholesome subject that teaches us not just how to gain control over the body, but also one’s mind, emotions and the subtler aspects of the self.

If you’re already a yoga enthusiast or would just love to know more about the subject, here are 3 authentic books you must check out to dive deeper:

1. Light on the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali by B.K.S. Iyengar

This book by world renowned yogi B.K.S. Iyengar breaks down the essence and meaning of the original Yoga Sutras by Patanjali, the founder of the yoga system we know today as Ashtanga yoga. In this book, Iyengar takes a systematic and step-by-step approach to breaking down each sutra and explains their meanings in detail. This one is a must-read for all who want to deeply understand the process of yoga in its entirety with all its intricacies in an easy-to-digest manner.

2. Hatha Yoga Pradipika by Swami Muktibodhananda

This beautiful and ancient book on the principles and foundations of Hatha yoga was compiled by Maharishi Swatmarama in the 15th century as a compilation of many Hatha yoga texts written before this period. It is essentially a Sanskrit manual with a thorough commentary and translation of the Sanskrit texts in English by Swami Satyananda and Swami Muktibodhananda. One of the most influential books in this genre, this title introduces the reader to the processes of physical purification before starting the comprehensive process of meditation.

Additionally, the book contains 389 shlokas in four chapters that outline teachings on purification, posture, breath control, spiritual centres, energetic locks in the body, channels in the subtle body and much more. A most definitive and informative text, this is your go-to for deep study and knowledge on the yoga system.

3. Asana Pranayama Mudra Bandha by Swami Satyananda Saraswati

This cohesive text, a manual on the processes of yoga asanas and pranayama, is one of the most systematic and internationally recognised books available in the market today. It has been written by the revered Swami Satyananda Saraswati, who is a disciple of Swami Sivananda and the founder of the International Yoga Fellowship and Bihar School of Yoga.

The book features drawings of each asana and the detailed step-by-step method on how to perform these asanas, from beginner levels to the most advanced levels, including directions on how to control your breath and manage your subtle body.

Additionally, a new therapeutic index has also been included in the newer revised edition of this book that is used by doctors and yoga therapists to brush up on the recent findings and research conducted on the importance and benefits of the yoga system.

This article is the copyright work of the author and this blog.