....and I've read alot of them.
Art and Science of Raja Yoga has everything from easy beginner routines, to more advanced postures. And this book doesn't make you feel like some couch potato just because you can't do advanced pretzel poses.
I also enjoyed the pranayama breathing exercises and meditation practices. I had never 'got' meditation until I began practicing some of the simple meditation techniques in this book.
You can also contact the publishers of the book for followup support with your practices- everything from retreats, to other books, and more. I've never, ever heard of anything like this. Check it out!
I was amazed at the beauty and simplicity of this text. It told me much of what I needed to know to start my journey on my Spiritual path. I felt that Swami Kriyananda's insights were clear and blended Christianity and Raja Yoga in a way that made sense to my Christian upbringing! Being rather skeptical by natural, I found the step-by-step process that Swami offers perfect for someone with a science/medical background (nursing) to gain the knowledge needed to open my heart and start on my true Path. There is even a page offering Student Support with a phone number and email address to contact someone with the questions that inevitably arise.
Each unit is broken down into 'do-able' pieces. One can read through the entire book then go back at anytime or take one chapter at a time and absorb as much as necessary. I especially like the sections on Breathing (Pranayama)- offering many different techniques that can be incorporated into daily life at any time! There is also Philosophy, Meditation, Diet, Postures and Routines for every section or unit.
I am not a Hatha Yoga expert but am very much the amateur! I do Hatha Yoga to open my heart, to stretch my sometimes rather stiff body, and also to prepare myself for meditation. I like the Affirmations offered by Swami for each posture (asana). They help me to go deeper into the postures, and to direct my energy into a calm and positive direction.
I appreciate being able to read a book and develop my own thoughts on that subject - not having someone's beliefs shoved down my throat. I feel that the approach taken in this book offers me just that, a way to read and decide what works and what does not work for me. I really believe that this course in the Art & Science of Raja Yoga is great for everyone, beginners and those already committed to their Spiritual Path alike!
