This guide is the most complete and clearly communicated sanskrit reference for yoga that I have ever seen. I am a yoga teacher trainer and this will become my constant companion for both myself and to use in our trainings. It includes a comprehensive list of asana names and translations presented in alphabetical order with very, precise linear illustrations. This section alone is invaluable. The accompanying CD states the sanskrit term twice so that you may repeat it back and follows with the English translation (so you know the meaning of what you just said!). In addition to asana, the guide includes the sun salutation sequences, the first 3 astanga sequences, seven common mudras or hand gestures, common chants for your practice, several of the key sutras and a vast collection of yoga terms- numbers, yamas, niyamas, animals, bandhas, cakras, body parts and more.

The book is very organized and easy to use. The accompanying CD is tracked allowing you to quickly go to the section you are looking for. The best part of the CD is that you can clearly hear and understand Nicolai's rhythmic voice as well as, the female vocal accompaniment in the chants. (Many of my previous attempts at learning sanskrit were hampered by the thick accent of the translator). You can also use the book by itself or the CDs by themselves. No need to cross reference so you can play the CD anywhere and learn the language of yoga in your car or while working around the house.

This book is a must for any serious yoga student or yoga teacher. It will help you quickly learn and understand the sanskrit terms used in yoga. It will also help you to pronounce sanskrit with the beauty of this most sacred and spiritual language.