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Sema Institute
Usually ships in 24 hours IPhone 3G used's review (Great book) 『Great read even though it contains a few grammatical errors, but the content is well wriitten.』
(A Classic of Modern Mysticism, a Bit Flawed) 『Originally written in 1995, I read the 6th edition of "1997-2001". Muata Ashbys book titles usually change quickly and/or are known by alternative titles. "Egyptian Yoga: The Philosophy of Enlightenment" is aka "Smai Tawi: 'Egyptian Yoga' (Union of the Higher and Lower Self)" and I suspect by further titles also. The author himself regards this early book of his as a classic, which chapters he has turned into full new books in the meanwhile.
Muata Ashby is a Do-It-Yourself author and publisher, which has the advantage that he is able to publish unconstrained by any directives. The disadvantage is the occasional slip of layout etc., such as the half a dozen times in which the text of captions etc. abort in the middle of the sentence.
It should be known that by "yoga" the linking back to God, i.e. the union with God is meant, not really the body exercise popularly associated with the term in the West. Five pages only are devoted to actual body exercise, consisting of little text as such. However, there is a larger section on the seven chakras, energy centers in the body, though other books are dealing with them far more in depth. Also in other contexts, the close connection to India is exposed.
This is a great mystical book, especially for the Imes (time) it has been written. For the revelatory potential, this book is worth five stars. For mystics, who already know about this topic, some subtractions will have to be made. Which is not to say that mystics can't learn from this book, on the contrary. Depending on the previous knowledge it is sure informing to read about the Egyptian origins of such symbols as the sacred cows and the swastika, which are both popularly blinded as originating from the Indian periphery. Also the (more complex) religious serpent symbol gets elaborated on from the Egyptian source. The symbolic crucification of the spirit on the cross of time and space when it enters into physical form (the body) is decisive to know, for those who don't know that the Christian cross is derived from the Egyptian ankh/nkwa (life) symbol. Further elaboration on this will be found in Egyptian Yoga II: The Supreme Wisdom of Enlightenment.
Muata Ashby sure dives into the phenomenological approach of egyptology (including India) in contrast to mainstream Western scientists who can't make anything of Egyptian spiritual wisdom for real. It is breathtaking to know, especially after reading this book, that the ancient Egyptians are still not only advanced in being capable of building pyramids, but also in spiritual enlightenment. Once, we have passed the Egyptian mythology and know the mysticism behind it. This book is rolling back the Nicaean Council of 325 C.E., which decided for Christianity that an external savior figure would be necessary between an individual human and God. (And, of course, the savior's "official" representatives of the Church.) Muata Ashby is using Egyptian/Indian doors to religion to write in an universal style, i.e. irrespective of the branch of religion the readers may count themselves belonging to. He was even able to bring the concept of reincarnation (and AVOIDING it) somewhat closer to me than The Tibetan Book of the Dead: First Complete Translation (Penguin Classics Deluxe Edition) and similar Buddhist books I have read recently. He does get a bit repetitive though.
I would have appreciated an elaboration on the Ethiopian part of "Ethiopian-Egyptian" rites, religion, philosophy, etc. For one thing: Is he talking about the area of today's Ethiopia or today's Sudan? For another, I am aware that Egyptian society originated as a "colony" from (today's) Ethiopia, yet little do I know about pre-Jewish/Christian society in Ethiopia, and this book nothing more than references that.
Not everything in this book should be taken at face value, though. Literally, when it comes to the reproduced Zulus' averment to originate from Mars. At least not concerning biology (DNA) and the supposed pyramids and that huge face sculpture on Mars "discovered" a couple of decades ago. In the meanwhile much more precise pictures have been taken by new Mars probes, exposing CLEARLY natural mountains with no artificial treatment. I have also read various differing findings about the Egyptian obelisks than the single one provided in this book.
Occasionally I was baffled by the inconsistencies in this book. One chapter describes the pyramid texts (and the related so-called "Book of the Dead") as funerary, another suggests a quite inconclusive mystical content. (Read Shamanic Wisdom in the Pyramid Texts: The Mystical Tradition of Ancient Egypt for a clearly mystical, non-funerary approach.) One chapter may be clearly sex hostile, another warns against such extremes. In a nice catch 22, it is stated that one should meditate every day without a day missing, but elsewhere it is said not to meditate 24 hours after sex.
Concerning that mostly rather hostile approach towards sexuality: Ejaculation, even the thought of sexuality would cause energy loss. Personally, I would need some in-depth elaboration on suggestions like that, especially in the shadow of the sex hostile meme pool of religion at large. Supposedly, one would hasten to death with sexual engagement. Yet, the book states, there isn't death and is making strong points against egoism, this would qualify as in context. While the book harbors all the ingredients of sex hostility, it later mentions sex as a vehicle to unite with God, seeing orgasm as spiritual. Not explaining that either.
Similarly, the book remains inconsistent on the construct of genders. "As we pursue the union of opposites [of genders], we will discover that there are no opposites, only the projected appearance of them." Also: "The sage no longer identifies with the sex of his or her particular body." Yet: the so-called negative confession #27 is translated as: "I have not lusted or committed fornication nor have I lain with others of my same sex." Not only doesn't this fit with the rest of these declarations of innocence, doesn't match other translations (no source is provided for this one), but how can the same sex exist, if no genders exist at all? Besides, all the primary god/desses are considered androgynous and sexuality described with/among them - in all varieties. The failure lies in the strong meme pool of the belief in genders making it not really possible for the author to leave that construct, even though intellectually attempting that. "Merging of opposite forces", "andro-gyn-ity", "humans are half-half" etc. all work in the pretext that there IS such a thing as genders. Whereas to REALLY feel that there isn't, the scientific knowledge is paramount that there isn't any clearly separable biological differentiation to begin with. Besides, the reader is asked to follow all the 42 declarations of innocence ("negative confesstions"), yet, obviously no Egyptian ever did that, as the provided version consists of a COMPILATION from various differing sources. Plus, e.g. the "Papyrus of Ani" only mentions a SELECTION of the 42 declarations... The consequences of not being able to give these declarations is to get reincarnated again. Which in later branches of religions became interpreted as "hell". So in reality we are basically free to follow them or not, should we decide, reincarnation isn't that bad after all... In addition, in this book's world of no gender, most certainly one is more equal than the other: There's the duality provided of top-bottom, giving-receiving, positively-negatively charged, godly-evil (Horus-Set). Guess, which "gender" is always the first and which one always the latter... No wonder the book is against dualisms in principle, while forgetting that once in a while. Also, some provided Egyptian proverbs are sexist (and others xenophobic), as this one: "...fill [your wife's] belly... She is a fertile field for her husband... It is by such treatment that she will be compelled to stay in your house." I find the old English translation of thy, thine, thou etc. pretentious anyway, as this makes for needlessly stilted reading, considering that old English is futuristic from the ancient Egyptians' point of view in the first place.
Even though it is important, yes, to put the concept of emotions, the physical world we live in etc. in mystical perspective, I upwise a little less life hostility / nihilism. We wouldn't have been constructed this way, if we weren't to experience it at all. Just be aware of that construct and do not blind it as reality. Separating from emotions, viewing life, relatives, friends and loves with dispassion at all Imes, as suggested may lead to neurosises, similar to the effects of child abuse. It's intriguing to attempt the Vulcan approach, yet this isn't the necessary life style for everyone...』
(A good starting point) 『I am actually rating this book at 3.5 stars. The author obviously spent a great deal of time and effort researching the material presented. Also it seems that a lot of thought and care went into synthesizing a relationship between seemingly disparate world traditions. It provides a summary of many of the world's great religious and spiritual traditions. This book serves as a springboard into more indepth study of spiritual practice and as a general reference. It provides a wide spectrum of topics and plenty of material for speculation and introspection. The authors seem to have a vision of providing aspiring seekers of knowledge a firm grasp on the truths that underly all spiritual and religious tradition.
There were a few things that bothered me about this book. First, the layout of the book makes reading problematic. Many of the sections of the book have multiple fonts, formats, and sizes that begin to confuse the eye. Also, the book would have greatly benefited from a more consistent style to the artwork. While it is important to try and preserve the original style and look of the art, there is no crime in letting a talented artist reinterpret the picture to add continuity to the images. Many of he sections looked like the product of an old word processing program.
My second concern is the scope. While this book may be the first volume of author's magnum opus (he has written many other books), his work might benefit from a bit more stylistic focus. A great many authors, especially in the realm of African centered work, tend produce sweeping books that are intended to be compendiums on their intended topics. The authors in this genre try to follow in the footstpes of greats like John Henrik Clarke, St. Claire Drake, and Ivan Van Sertima. The aforementioned veteran authors all benefit from years of academic experience which hones their writing and presentations skills.
My problems with Egyptian Yoga Vol.1 could be solved in a three steps. One, allow a talented and open minded artist reinterpret the art to give a coherent and consistent visual perspective. Two, allow someone with desktop publishing experience to thoroughly format the text and layout to provide a more pleasing reading experience. Three, the experienced eye of an editor could make the prose and ideas presented more accessible and focused.
I give Egyptian Yoga 3.5 stars because it shows a great deal of promise and exposes readers to the beginnings of a many spirituals truths and philosophies. Taken for what it is (an expansive coverage and summary of a huge body of knowledge), it is a good initial effort. The three ideas mentioned above could turn this book from a good effort into a superior one.』
(Must Read) 『This book is definately one of the best additions to my library. Dr. Ashby gives a great analysis of the most complex knowledge system known to humankind. Not only does he know what he is talking about, but he is able to transform the wisdom of the ancients into the limited framework of the English language. Very powerful. If one is seeking enlightenment, this book definately provides a step in the right direction.』
(RESEARCHES BIRTHPLACE OF "ALL" ESOTERIC DOCTRINES) 『This book is a classic in a multiplicity of fields; incl.,Kemetic (Egyptian) research, Melanin studies, Yoga techniques,Symbology, Comparative Religions, Esoteric materialism (scientifictechnology behind machinery), and others to numerous to mention.Dr. Muata Ashby is a first rate academician and he is a Masterpractitioner of the Art to boot! This is the most cosmopolitan workyou can find on esoteric/occultic syncretism. Every page is loadedwith diagrams, or sublime research on the esoteric connection aroundthe world of the African Diaspora. Take for example page 8:""THE VEIL OF IGNORANCE- As stated in the ancient Egyptiantext, 'The Book of Coming Forth by Day', the eternal soul comes to earthto learn certain lessons and to become purified. In the process of evolution, virtues as well as vices areexperienced by us based on our own 'mental disposition.... When thespirit, our innermost self, is ready to make the final'journey home', back to its source, GOD, it begins to inquire aboutthe nature of its existence and thereby causes pressure on the mind,namely the ego-personality. Our BA, our individualGOD consciousness, begins to apply subtle pressure on our wakingconsciousness in the form of subtle suggestions. We begin to recognizethe wisdom of ancient scriptures and develop an interest in books suchas this one. Becoming in tune with the pressure of the spirit withinis allowing ourselves to be guided by our intuition and the letting goof ideas and thoughts which we know to be untrue or fruitless. Mentalpurification requires the utmost patience with ourselves. Interest inthe world as an Absolute reality (the notion there is nothing elsebeyond 'this' physical reality) is left behind gradually and newpsychological impressions and experiences are introduced until webecome established in this 'other' reality. At this point, we wake upfrom the consciousness we have been used to as if waking up from adream this is attaining 'Horushood', 'Christhood', or becoming'Buddha' or 'Krishna'. THAT WHICH IS THE FUNDAMENTAL TRUTH, THESUBSTANTIAL REALITY, IS BEYOUND TRUE NAMING, BUT THE WISE CALL IT THEALL Egyptian Proverb"" Actually the Masculine side of theGodhead (The Father in Christendom) is called the ALL, by theinitiates, the mundane call it Allah. And the Feminine side of theGodhead (Holy Spirit in Christendom) is called the ALL IN ALL {She isthat which is beyond the Masculine side according to the"KA.BA.ALLAH" (this is where Mohammed, a black Arab initiateof the Damascus Lodge; a branch of the Egyptian Spiritual sytem's maintemple at Luxor, got the word/idea for his God from), purposely hiddenin this book's name is the word A.L.L.A.H.; Arm, Leg, Leg, Arm,Head. So we have in this Egyptian, (not Jewish like they would haveyou think), artifact - the component structure of man, whom is thephysical incarnation of God/GODESS)&the Feminine side gave riseto the Masculine, this is why She is called the All IN ALL}; by theinitiates, and Allet by the mundane (even though you hardly ever hearabout Her)... Yes, i am scholarly enough to be able to correct DrAshby in this area! The wonderful quote above is so good that thecompany that i work for took it and condensed it into a marketingmotto. Many off the members of KC Board of Trade that i introduce tothis gem, go out a by it for themselves immediately. They come backamazed at how much research quality information is contained in only209, 8.5" x 11", pages. The foreword alone is worth theprice of the entire book. It reads: ""The literal meaning ofthe word YOGA is to 'YOKE' or to 'LINK' back. The implication is: tolink back to the original source, the original essence, that whichtranscends all mental and intellectual attempts at comprehension, butwhich is the essential nature of everything in CREATION. The Scienceof Yoga constitutes the teachings required to achieve perfection whichis the original essence of every human spirit. Nature herself offersone path to perfection. The path of learning through mistakes andsuffering, the process of trial and error....Through self discipline,the path of Yoga offers a 'short cut' to ending the pains of humanexistence...by achieving self-mastery and self-realization, therealization of one's true nature: GOD. The process is to become aHorus, a Christ, and Enlightened Being, while still alive. To attainthis level of being, we must first control the forces of our own lowernature. In essence, we must learn how to give up our egotisticalideas and allow them to dissolve so that we may discover our deepestself, who is nameless,, bodiless, immortal and eternal....""Wow is there anything else that needs to be said, i think not. But iwill say that if being a TRUTH seeker is what you are then this is theplace, and the time is now for you to make a commitment (envoke asolemn oath to yourSelf) to right now "discover a far awaycountry". There's no place further than.... "(inner)SPACE thefinal frontier! These are the voyages of the stel'ar ship,Enterprise. It's mission, to seek out L.I.F.E. (L.iberty, I.ntegrity,F.ocus, E.volution- the fourfold path of self-discipline hidden inJesus' saying: "I am the Way, the Truth, the L.I.F.E., any thatcome to meshallhave life everlasting".), to search for meaning, to boldly gowhere others have gone on before.... Djhuiti M. AmenRa, CEO/Chairman of Board: TheA.C.M.E. Corporation, Inc....』 『1. EGYPTIAN YOGA: THE PHILOSOPHY OF ENLIGHTENMENT An original, fully illustrated work, including hieroglyphs, detailing the meaning of the Egyptian mysteries, tantric yoga, psycho-spiritual and physical exercises. Egyptian Yoga is a guide to the practice of the highest spiritual philosophy which leads to absolute freedom from human misery and to immortality. It is well known by scholars that Egyptian philosophy is the basis of Western and Middle Eastern religious philosophies such as Christianity, Islam, Judaism, the Kabala, and Greek philosophy, but what about Indian philosophy, Yoga and Taoism? What were the original teachings? How can they be practiced today? What is the source of pain and suffering in the world and what is the solution? Discover the deepest mysteries of the mind and universe within and outside of your self』
Kakaku：848 saved$8.48
Healing Arts Press
Usually ships in 24 hours IPhone 3G used's review (Thai Yoga Massage: A Dynamic Therapy for Physical Well-Being and Spiritual Energy) 『An absolutely wonderful book. A complete step by step guide with full pictures and descriptions of the practitioner and client's positions. History and diagrams are informative. Kam Thai Chow is a Master of great Excellence! I am signed up to study wherever he goes!』
(Great except for one very key point) 『(I currently have the German version of this book, but I assume that the English one includes the same info.) I have just finished a course in Thai massage, and the traditional technique, as taught by Asokananda (aka Harald Brust), the man who brought Thai massage to the Western world, does NOT begin in the sitting position. Asokananda teaches the importance of beginning a massage at the feet, and then working upwards. From what I understand, this is important because Thai massage balances the energy in a body and the flow must go upwards through the chakras to the head. That said, this book includes some excellent photographs and the rest of its content is extremely helpful to anyone learning Thai massage. I think that Asokananda's book should still be the starting point for everyone, though.』
(perfect.) 『Finally a book that lives up to the title. Nicely written, stays w/in the scope of the book - clear photographs included.
Good primer on the subject. 』
(easy to learn this massage techinique) 『thorough, user-friendly, and helpful.』
(Excellent source) 『Kam Thye Chow's book is fantastic. You will not be disappointed.』 『A paperback edition with DVD featuring a unique massage therapy that combines stretching, breath work, assisted yoga postures, and pressure point therapy
• Text includes more than 125 black-and-white photographs of instructional postures
• DVD features author demonstrating techniques for performing a one-hour massage
In the temples of Thailand many centuries ago, a dynamic bodywork therapy based on yoga, ayurveda, and the martial arts was born. In this unique healing system of Thai Yoga Massage, the practitioner guides the recipient through a series of yoga postures while palming and thumbing along the body’s energy lines and pressure points. Together these actions result in a treatment that relieves muscular tension, improves circulation, boosts the immune system, and balances the body energetically.
In this paperback edition ofThai Yoga Massage,Kam Thye Chow not only leads readers through every aspect of this ancient bodywork therapy using more than 125 detailed, step-by-step photographs, but he also demonstrates the techniques for performing a one-hour massage in the accompanying DVD. Kam Thye Chow is one of the world’s foremost practitioners and has taught massage in Thailand and throughout Europe and North America. With this text and DVD set, his personal training is now available for those who wish to see the techniques demonstrated live as a complement to the points discussed in the text.』
Kakaku：478 saved$4.78
Duncan Baird
Usually ships in 24 hours IPhone 3G used's review (Excellent) 『This is a very well illustrated introductory guide to yoga mainly for beginners. The poses and sequences are clearly explained and variations are provided for different levels of ability. A minor criticism is that the author asserts that the poses will stimulate internal organs such as the thyroid or spleen. To do what exactly? This is silly and detracts from the work. She should edit those comments out on any future edition. Otherwise this is highly recommended.』
(Totally Great!) 『Love this book. First saw it at a spa I visited. I like the layout and pictures which show you the correct forms. The part I like the best are the "sequence of asanas" at the back with suggested asanas for morning, evening, gentle and strong sequence. Well done.』 『
This is simply the perfect introduction to yoga! Complete with more than 200 photos—plus special boxes that explain how to adapt the classic moves so they’re easier to perform—it breaks down every asana, or posture, and reflects the most important developments in the form. The poses range from a simple standing forward bend to a plough and shoulder stand, and specific sequences are laid out in detail, including one for early morning energizing. There’s inspirational coverage of yoga’s traditional physiological, philosophical, and spiritual context, as well as information on different styles, finding a teacher, working with a partner, and learning to meditate. Whatever your level or age, this is the path to inner calm and a stronger, more flexible body.
Kakaku：478 saved$4.78
Inner Traditions
Usually ships in 24 hours IPhone 3G used's review (A splendid work by the youthful scholar) 『This is one of Feuerstein's earliest works, written in the late seventies when he was around thirty years old. It is a young scholar's book, marked by impatience with the scholarly establishment's misconceptions and errors, and filled with enthusiasm for setting the old guys aright. It is vigorously pedantic and refreshingly candid.
Inspired by the great Romanian scholar Mircea Eliade, who, in his monumental Yoga: Immortality and Freedom (1958) (see my review at Amazon), set the standard for all scholarly works on yoga, Feuerstein translates the most important Sanskrit word in Patanjali's scheme, "samadhi" as "enstasy," eschewing the usual and inadequate "ecstasy." Enstasy was Eliade's coinage. Both he and Feuerstein were understandably dissatisfied with "ecstasy" since it does not adequately convey the complex meaning of samadhi. Unfortunately neither does enstasy, and worse yet, the word is practically unknown in English. Webster's Unabridged Second International Dictionary, which was the standard at the time, doesn't even list it.
The solution of course is to avoid any attempt at a direct word-for-word translation of "samadhi" and instead allow the context to define it. That is the usual practice today. I make this point because I think it illustrates the kind of mistake that Feuerstein, who has gone on to become perhaps the world's leading academic authority on yoga, would not make today. Indeed in his The Shambhala Encyclopedia of Yoga (1997), relying upon a number of different yogic traditions, Feuerstein defines "samadhi" using various modifications and qualifications of "ecstasy" and does not employ the word "enstasy" at all.
Also of interest is Feuerstein's use of the esoteric word "nescience" for the Sanskrit "avidya" when the simple "ignorance" would seem to do as well. I hasten to add however that Feuerstein even then was an accomplished scholar, and perhaps his usage is necessary, although I believe "nescience" would be better employed as a translation of "ajnana" and not "avidya" in most cases.
Samadhi in its various forms is the goal and raison d'être of yoga with the understanding that in samadhi is liberation ("moksha") and freedom from samsara and what the Buddha termed the "unsatisfactoriness" of life. Samadhi is also understood as meditation itself or (from Ernest Wood) "contemplation." The full truth is that samadhi cannot really be defined. It can only be experienced. And that will come only with time, effort and practice--which is what Patanjali's yoga is all about.
Feuerstein knows yoga the way a mother knows her child--that is, thoroughly with love and devotion. So it is noteworthy that he calls Patanjali's yoga "Classical Yoga" and identifies it as one of several yogic approaches to God-realization. See his Yoga, The Technology of Ecstasy (1989) for a thorough exploration, and see especially page 40 where he presents "the wheel of Yoga" with eight yogas such as karma yoga, bhakti yoga, etc., leading to transcendence.
Significantly Feuerstein makes a distinction between what he calls "kriya yoga" and the eight limbs of yoga usually associated with Patanjali. This is curious because it is this asta-anga yoga that is celebrated today as being the essence of Patanjali's yoga and is the basis for the practice of hatha and raja yoga. The famous eight limbs are yama (abstentions); niyama (observances)--these first two are the moral commandments of yoga--asana (posture); pranayama (breath control); pratyahara (sense withdrawal); dharana (concentration); dhyana (meditation); and samadhi (contemplation). The first five are usually thought of as part of the hatha yoga practice leading to the final three as the essence of raja yoga. Feuerstein believes that the second chapter of the sutra (Sadhana-Pada) "is a composite of two independent traditions, viz. the Kriya-Yoga of Patanjali and the asta-anga-yoga of whose systematic model Patanjali availed himself." (p. 59) Contrary to what some other commentators and translators believe, Feuerstein asserts that one of the central ideas of the sutra, that of devotion to God (Isvara), which he sees as part of Kriya-Yoga, is part of Patanjali's expression and not an interpolation. This is an important point since without such an expression, Patanjali's yoga can be seen as purely secular without the need of God for deliverance.
Since there are many translations and commentaries on Patanjali's famous aphorisms, the question arises, what is the value of Feuerstein's book in relation to the others? I have read and studied several, and have to say that I would not recommend Feuerstein's work for the beginner nor would I recommend it as the exclusive source. The great value of this youthful work is in its thoroughness of approach. Feuerstein not only defines each word in the text, he explains each aphorism, some in considerable depth, while sometimes haggling over which expression best conveys Patanjali's meaning. Additionally, the book contains a "continuous translation" sans commentary, a Sanskrit word index (unfortunately for me, at least, in Sanskrit alphabetical order!), an overview of topics discussed by Patanjali, a regular index, and a couple of introductory essays.
But the problem for the student is exactly this plethora of information. Consequently I would recommend that the reader begin with a simpler and more straightforward text such as that by Ernest Wood, or Swami Prabhavananda and Christopher Isherwood, or Shree Purohit Swami (with help from the poet W.B. Yeats), or some others, and after a first reading then use Feuerstein's book as an aid to study. 』
(The best modern translation) 『I had to reorder this book because I wore out my copy. Which, come to think of it, is a mark against the binding. It is glued. But to be fair I really used it a lot. Feuerstein is a Sanskrit scholar and shows how he interprets each word or phrase into modern usage. He is a spiritual traveler himself and knows what is helpful. His emphasis is on how we can understand ourselves better. The book is concise but he also gives an excellent overview of the philosophy and history of Raja Yoga. This book is made especially for ease of use on a very difficult intellectual topic. Patanjali can be confusing and too brief in the sense that he only touches on extremely important topics. For the first time reader F. has made much more of Patanjali's work accessible in this fine book.』
(can't say good or bad, depends on your interest, who you are) 『what's so opaque about the aphorisms that writers start to pre-interpret them for you, invariably tinted with their own precepts and ideas? It's a little like somebody chewing your food for you. The aphorisms are not that opaque and its an enjoyable and useful excercise to read them in their simple, bare and clear form, until the understanding comes - your own realizations rather then someone elses. You could read a book like this over the weekend, but I'm not sure it's supposed to be read like that. It seems better you should do the mental work yourself, aphorism by aphorism. There is an effect to this, which could be lost if it's all been solved and explained for you. Therefore I prefer authors that appeared to be going to great lengths to avoid adding too much of their own coloring, like William Q. Judge's interpretation from 1914. That is regrettably only available from Kessinger in bound photocopy format. I wish somebody would make a decent new print of it.
Anyways, Patanjali's aphorisms are worth the time in any form and I shall thank any author who spent his time to bring them to more of us, different introductions will appeal to different people.』
(Not worth the time) 『Criticizing other's interpretations of the sutra is not the way to expound your own understanding (or lack of it) of this classic yoga text. Yoga is a practical science, not an academic exposition of your point of view. If you want to gain a working, practical understanding of the sutra to deepen your own personal practice, try a translation by one of the Indian interpreters such as I.K. Taimni.』
(Among the best - still missing somethings) 『I have looked at atleast 8 translations of Patanjali. Dr. Feurstein's is among the best. Particularly appealing is his defining Sanskrit roots, however, I wish he would have had the text in Sanskrit as well as transliteration. At times he gets overly pedantic and I believe misses the meaning of the sutra. It is the problem with all the available translations. Some of his translations don't make sense. Once again a common problem. At times he comes forth with very astute observations. It is not easy to get to Kaivalya from here.』 『Approximately two thousand years old,The Yoga-Sutra of Patañjali is the landmark scripture on classical yoga. The translation and commentary provided here by Georg Feuerstein are outstanding for their accessibility and their insight into the essential meaning of this ancient and complex text.
A scholar of international renown who has studied and practiced yoga since the age of fourteen, Feuerstein also brings toThe Yoga-Sutra of Patañjalihis experience as a professional indologist. His faithful and informed rendering of the aphorisms (sutras) is based on extensive personal research into the Sanscrit sources. Each word is explained so that the entire text becomes readily available to the western reader and student of yoga. 』
Kakaku：1695 saved$16.95
Integral Yoga Publications
Usually ships in 24 hours IPhone 3G used's review (Clearest illustrations and benefits of postures) 『I have used this edition of yoga postures for the past 35 or more years. Now age 82, I am more flexible than my peers and even my own children who are in their 50s. This flexibility has kept me in good health and physically active. There are two especially valuable aspects to this book: the postures are photographs of a man doing each posture, accompanied with a clear explanation of how to do it as well as what the physical benefits/purposes are for each posture. For example certain postures are used to tone up the nervous system, help asthma, constipation, diseases of the lungs, digestive and genitourinary systems,etc. The book also covers breathing and other practices commonly practiced by those on a spiritual path; I recommend anyone interested in those practices to do them under the guidance of a spiritual master. However, the cultural poses in and of themselves can be safely practiced by a lone individual who follows common sense and does not push his/her physical boundaries too hard. In particular, this book devotes 8 pages of detailed pictures/instructions to the Salutaton to the Sun pose which was recommended to me as the "anti-aging" pose by Baba Hari Das. I have been doing it on my own for over 20 years and strongly recommend it.』
(textbook) 『I have taught yoga at various points in my life. I use this book as my required textbook for all my students. If you have one book on Hatha Yoga...this should be it』
(The Best Yoga Book Available) 『no yogarobics here, true hatha yoga, often amazingly difficult, but also very helpful, as many poses can be done, and poses lead to increased flexibillity and the ability to do more poses. Not necessarily the most user-friendly text, excellent (though maybe not so fun) explanation of cleansing techniques and reasons, and good explanations of the benefits of various poses. Everything from exercises to strengthen eyes, to every organ of the body, some discussion of diet, and other subjects. A true handbook for yoga, if ever there was one. This was one of the first yoga books I ever looked at, and it initially helped me see the point and begin to embark on the discipline. It is more useful to those who have already begun to practice yoga, as its immensity will leave some without a clue as to where to begin, how much to do, etc. Bikram's Sequence is a good start, but should never be the be all-end all.』
(Back to Basics--and Much, Much More) 『A seminal book on hatha that takes a gentle, thorough and, above all, healthy approach to yoga's physical aspects. It's all here--poses, meditation, breathing, even the more esoteric cleansing practices. All of it conveyed with the author's injunction to listen to your body and progress steadily and surely. This is not for the "power yoga" crowd who do hatha for a beautiful bod. You can beautify yourself with this program, but the focus is on developing the whole person--body, mind and spirit. A truly integral, and integrated, approach.』 『This clear and comprehensive yoga manual, prepared by the world-renowned yoga master Swami Satchidananda, is the only one you will ever need! Clear, concise and accurate information and illustrations make yoga practice easy for everyone, even through to the most advanced level.』
Kakaku：574 saved$5.74
Jessica Kingsley Pub
Usually ships in 24 hours 『Practicing yoga creates a sense of calm and focus and heightens awareness of the body's functions and movements. For children with sensory processing difficulties - because they either have low sensory thresholds and are overwhelmed by sensory stimulation or because they have high thresholds and do not register stimulation - yoga can be hugely beneficial. This book presents easy-to-follow basic postures and sequences for children and young people which can be easily adapted for adults. Nicole Cuomo gives practical advice for how to choose appropriate sequences according to the child's particular needs and mood, knowing that yoga will be most beneficial when it is fun! Photographs of each posture supplement the descriptions. This practical book provides a wide range of ideas for therapists, educators and parents to help their children with sensory processing needs.』
Kakaku：1300 saved$13.00
Glorian Publishing
Usually ships in 24 hours 『
The health and vitality of the physical body is essential for anyone who aspires towards the awakening of the consciousness. Initiated students of Tantric traditions are taught exercises called Yantra Yoga to promote health and fortitude needed for their rigorous self-development. Samael Aun Weor, a reincarnated lama from the Sacred Order of Tibet, teaches in this book a synthesized and refined sequence of Yantric exercises with profound benefits that anyone can experience. In addition, he provides a fascinating and often shocking perspective on the reality of our situation, and the tremendous urgency for us to change our ways.
Special Edition:Boxed set includes a durable reference card for use while practicing the exercises.
"I tell you, brothers and sisters, that we, the Gnostics, have precise methods in order to rejuvenate the organism and cure all sicknesses. It is unquestionable that we can learn how to heal ourselves. Each one of us can be converted into our own physician by learning how to heal ourselves without the necessity of "medicine" - lo and behold, the most beloved ideal.
"It is urgent to preserve the physical body in perfect health for many years so that we can use this precious physical vehicle for the realization of our own Inner Self." - Samael Aun Weor』
Kakaku：510 saved$5.10
Tarcher
Usually ships in 24 hours IPhone 3G used's review (Great for yoga lovers! Insightful....) 『This book would make a great little gift for the yoga lovers in your life. Each chapter is short and readable in mere minutes. Yet, each chapter is insightful and will give you something to think about. Beautiful too. Highly recommended!』
(A ton of wisdom in a small package) 『Julie Rappaport has compiled a book that is chock full of insights and revelations. Even though there are the expected gems from such classic yoga texts such as the Bhagavad Gita and the Yoga Sutras, Rappaport has also included tidbits from modern yoga masters such as Erich Schiffman. But that's not all! There are descriptions of poses, quotations from Jung and other philosophers, poetry and Rappaport's own musings on yoga.
You may decide to go through this book, a quote a day - or just pick one at random. It is a book that any yoga pracitioner will turn to time and time again. I love it!』
(Inquiry into Yoga) 『I have found Julie Rappaport's book 365 Yoga: Daily Meditations to be an insightful look into the world of yoga. This book steps beyond the usual yoga pose instruction into the deeper meanings and questions that face a modern practioner of yoga. As a yoga teacher, I find the quotes helpful sometimes for my own practice and at other times to read aloud in class.』
(Highly Recommended) 『This book is a great inspiration and resource for yoga practitioners. I enjoyed randomly opening up to a section, then using what I read to help inspire my practice. It also works well as a one-a-day reading. Highly recommended for yoga practitioners and those seeking to ground their physical practice in the spiritual and poetic.』
(A great read) 『As a student new to yoga, I found this book fantastically helpful. I really enjoyed the quotations which I thought well chosen and a good introduction to the philosophy behind the exercises. The book is well laid out and easily digestible, something important to me as a beginner and I was impressed by the author's own writings and her obvious love for her subject. I'm sure this book will appeal to both newcomer and old hand, I thought it a wonderful read and it has certainly inspired me to look deeper into the practice.』 『An elegant and enlightening companion book for yoga practitioners.
This beautifully designed book invites readers to dis-cover the rich tradition of yoga through single pieces of wisdom-one for each day of the year. Filled with thought-provoking and inspiring quotations from the greatest yogic texts and yoga teachers throughout history, as well as invaluable instruction on specific poses, it is an essential resource and companion for anyone who practices yoga.
A celebration of the powerful ancient practice that is yoga, this book guides readers-day by day-through centuries of yogic philosophy.365 Yogainfuses yoga practice with a deeper understanding of the intricate connection of mind, body, and spirit.』
Kakaku：638 saved$6.38
Temple of Kriya Yoga
Usually ships in 24 hours IPhone 3G used's review (Kriyananda is a special blessing for humanity!) 『This was the first major publication and text book that I received 30 years ago when I enrolled in The Temple of Kriya Yoga, Chicago Teachers Certification Program. It remains the absolute best and most practicle resource I have. I still refer to it regularly. I am still learning from it even though I have been a teacher for 30 years. The fact is that these teachings are wisdom from Babaji Himself.In an era of where yoga is portrayed as gymnastic exercises to keep us liberally correct with images of young super modles as poster children of popular yoga business, this text restores the true heart and soul of yoga written by a truely enlightened being. Buy this book, use it and teach it to your children. Namaste!』
