The Complete Illustrated Book of Yoga by Swami Vishnu-devananda

by Sandeep
(Bangalore)

The Complete Illustrated Book of Yoga by Swami Vishnu-devananda was my introduction to the practice of yoga.

This classic has been in print since 1960 and for good reason! It not only guides you clearly through each step of the poses, but the beautiful photographs throughout this book are informative and enriching.

I was thrilled to find a section on the philosophy and spiritual aspects of yoga, which are often missing in other books of yoga and helped to bring my practice to a new level. Since I've been practising, I find my everyday stresses are easier to let go and the aches I tried to blame on poor sleeping habits have disappeared.

This book has been perfect for me as a student growing in experience, as well. Swami Vishnu-devananda lays out lesson plans and routines of different lengths of time to suit your personal skill level, letting you evolve your sessions at your pace.

While this book can seem a little overwhelming to a beginner in its density on the subject, it became an invaluable guide to me through yoga and its meditations. It was like having a teacher there with me throughout the experience. Honestly, I can't recommend this book and its practice enough, yoga has been a breath of fresh air for me! Score 9.5/10