Is there a book that explains yoga completely?

Question

I'm looking for a book that covers all the different aspects of yoga as well as all the types of yoga. I just started doing what I think is called Astanga yoga. I am so confused though because there are so many different words to remember and different types of yoga (ie. plasha yoga, asana, and I can't remember all the rest). I want something like an encyclopedia of yoga, so that I can learn about the philosophy, the types of yoga, the meanings of all the words, the history, the poses, the mantras, etc. I don't want a book that focuses on just one type of yoga or on just one aspect of yoga. There are plenty of those. It's like a wild goose chase trying to find the essential stuff to read. Is there a book that covers all of the yogas?

Answer 1

There will never be a book that completely explains yoga because it has such a long history. I do use two books, as a beginner, that I highly recommend since they cover a ton of poses and series which can be incorporated into your ashtanga yoga program.


The Complete Illustrated Book of Yoga
The Sivananda Companion to Yoga: A Complete Guide to the Physical Postures, Breathing Exercises, Diet, Relaxation, and Meditation Techniques of Yoga

You can buy them both together on Amazon.com for about $24 and they're really extensive for a beginner

Answer 2

The book that does exactly what you're asking for is called The Yoga Tradition: Its History, Literature, Philosophy and Practice. It's by George Feuerstein. Hohm Press, 2001. ISBN 1890772186.

However, even though this is what you're asking for, I think it may be quite daunting for a beginner. Instead of looking for one book that has absolutely everything (which the above title comes close to doing), maybe you should consider reading a beginner's book that deals with basic questions in an accessible way. It happens that Georg Feuerstein has written that book as well. It's called Yoga for Dummies (written with Larry Payne). Published in 1999. ISBN 0764551175.

These aren't your only options, but they are worth trying.

Answer 3

Well, I wudn't call it a wild goose chase
There are many books that cover all yoga

My personal recommendation is 'Yoga Health Secrets'

It is an ebook and it is very good

Here is the link
http://sanjay0828.acagma.hop.clickbank.net