Concise and readable answers to the most commonly asked questions about yoga, and illuminating little-known facts and esoteric aspects of the philosophy and practice--by renowned yogi Richard Rosen.

This collection of questions and answers explains the nuts and bolts of yoga philosophy and practice in a completely clear and readable way. Richard Rosen is known for his engaging teaching and writing style and in this book he gives pithy, accessible explanations of key apects of the tradition, such as:

Yoga's main texts, including Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita, Yoga Sutra, among others
Yamas and niyamas
The subtle body--what it means and what it looks like in practice
The evolution of asanas
Pranayama
Mudras and bandhas
And much more

Rosen also writes about the origins of yoga and questions whether it's a religion, a practice, or a science; explains the symbolism of frequently recurring numbers in the yoga tradition; gives the proper pronunciation of commonly mispronounced Sanskrit words; and looks at some of the more esoteric aspects of the tradition. This mix of essential concepts and intriguing little-known facts will delight those who are new to the practice as well as experienced practitioners.