What’s In My Bookshelf?
Bookshelf
Recently, one of my private yoga students asked what I would recommend for her to read, as we are covering the 8 limbs of yoga as discussed in Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras. I thought about it, then offered her a few ideas. Quickly I realized that many of YOU… my students, clients and friends… may also be looking for some good reads right now! Some of these books are yoga related, some are just good reads and I think our world could benefit from them at this time.
One more thing before I give ya my list… have you ever used the Libby app on your phone/device? GET IT. The library is at your finger tips. Including AUDIOBOOKS! It’s seriously been the best thing for me. I used to binge on shows, and it could become a problem if there was one I really likes (Mrs. Mazel anyone? Or Game of Thrones?)
Anyway… here we go, in no particular order!
1) The Path of the Yoga Sutras by Nicolai Bachman
An amazing modern breakdown of some of the most essential yoga sutras. Not divided in to 4 chapters like the original Patanjali, but super helpful for comprehension.
2) When the Body Says No: The Cost of Hidden Stress by Dr. Gabor Maté
WOAH. Wrapping my brain around. Stress-disease connection.
3) Just One Thing: Developing a Buddha Brain One Simple Practice at a Time by Rick Hanson
A Neuroscientist and Buddhist meditator, Hanson ties the interface of contemplative practices with brain science.
4) Light on Yoga: The Bible of Modern Yoga by B.K.S. Iyengar
A MUST HAVE if you are a Yoga Teacher, or want to deepen your practice.
5) Yoga: Fascia Anatomy and Movement by Joanne Sarah Avison
Super helpful yoga anatomy text.
6) Yoga Biomechanics: Stretching Redefined by Jules Mitchell
A very heady and academic yoga anatomy with lots of numbers and facts and such.
7) Yoga for Transformation: Ancient Teachings and Practices for Healing the Body, Mind, and Heart by Gary Kraftsow
Kraftsow is a true Master Teacher with so many gifts to offer the world. This is one of the gems!
8) Anatomy Trains: Myofascial Meridians for Manual and Movement Therapists by Thomas Myers
Personally, I do not like his lecture style, but this book is a fabulous resource for movement and bodywork.
9) How to Be an Antiracist by Ibram X. Kendi
Amazing. A total changer in my life.
10) Rising Strong by Brene Brown
My new favorite. I got on audiobook. Listening the second time around.
ENJOOOOYYYYYYY!
xoxo
Elizabeth Ruff ERYT 500, LMP, Soma Practitioner
Check the “Yoga Renewal Series: Grief, Gratitude, & Metamorphosis” on the previous blog!