The Spirit of Yoga

I'm always a little suspicious when I see a book like this one, which, by all appearances, appears to be cashing in on the yoga-as-fitness-trend phenomenon. So I was when I received this book as a birthday gift. But Kathy Phillips has given us a thing of beauty in "The Spirit of Yoga." A long-time practitioner and teacher, Phillips questions this trend, while acknowledging her own contribution to it. After reading this qualification, I devoured every page. Phillips gives a rich, if brief, history and description of the various paths of yoga practice, as well as gorgeous visuals and instructions on the poses basic to many yoga styles. Chapters on breathing and meditation help to complete what are for many practitioners the fundmental physical aspects of yoga. I've only been practicing for two years, and I try to maintain a balanced approach to what I see as blatant attempts at unnecessary or useless materialism that doesn't seem true to the aims of yoga. This book is definitely indulgent eye-candy, but in the best way - clean, beautiful layout and design, excellent photography and visuals that are respectful of the tradition. I would recommend "The Spirit of Yoga" both to anyone curious about beginning a yoga practice, as well as to any seasoned practioner who can take the time to read past its obvious coffee-table function!

This is a beautiful book to look at, but the author uses lots of celebrity names and past gurus, which pronouncing their 15 letter names I found to be quite distracting. However, if you are looking for a book that gives the meaning and origin of the poses that are used in everyday yoga class this is for you. Overall, I found the book to be filled with answers when it comes to sorting out all the different types of yoga and helping me to decide which practice is for me.

THE SPIRIT OF YOGA is truly a beautiful book. Part educational text, part testimonial by master practitioners, part collection of stunning and inspirational photography, this book has it all. I am a Yoga newcomer, and I found THE SPIRIT OF YOGA to be very helpful. It makes me wonder why I didn't find Yoga sooner.