The Elements of Yoga

I found this book an extremely informative and thorough introduction to yoga. While briefly examining the different branches and styles of yoga being taught today in the West, Devereux delves quite deeply into the essence of yoga as defined by Patanjali. The book includes the author's translation of Patanjali's yogasutras as well as interesting sections on yoga and diet, yoga and sex, yoga an family, and on the partial forms of yoga presently being taught most everywhere under the hatha yoga label. I find myself going back to these sections again and again for further and deeper understanding of yoga in its multiple facets. The second half of the book explains in great detail a good number of accessible yoga postures (mind you: accessible doesn't mean easy to perform well!) arranged in different practice routines at the end. All in all, an excellent introduction to those wanting to get started in yoga, not only as a great form of physical exercise, but as a complete lifestyle rich in purpose and meaning.