10 Best Books on Yoga and Meditation
It’s impossible to stay unaffected by the busy schedule of the modern world. More and more people search for a tool that can help them reduce their stress and support a healthy work-life balance.
An excellent way to keep yourself in great shape physically and mentally is to start practicing yoga and meditation. We offer you ten amazing books which will explain to you the history and philosophy of these practices and how you can use them in your everyday life.
1. Autobiography of a Yogi - Paramahansa Yogananda
An absolute Amazon bestseller, which contains a complete life story of Paramahansa Yogananda – a famous Indian yogi and guru. Written back in 1946, this is still one of the most respected books on wisdom of the East. This book includes stories of modern-day saints, experiences of sophisticated Indian masters, and an introduction to the science and philosophy of Yoga.
2. Practical Meditation for Beginners: 10 Days to a Happier, Calmer You - Benjamin W. Decker
A short guide on meditation practices. "Practical Meditation" was written for people who are only beginning their journey to inner peace. Contains 10 different spiritual techniques with step-by-step instructions and logical chapter organization. A perfect choice for busy people searching for a fast way to gain meditation skills.
3. Meditations on Self-Love - Laurasia Mattingly
A book that encourages positive thinking about different life situations and other people, and most importantly – yourself. With 365 brief affirmations and cheerful anecdotes for every day of the year, it’s a helpful tool for reducing anxiety, healing traumas, brightening the mood, and developing self-love.
4. Light on Yoga: The Bible of Modern Yoga - B. K. S. Iyengar
A complete guide to the practice of Iyengar Yoga, created by the original author of the technique. The 1979 edition provides readers with the description of more than 600 asanas and breathing exercises, as well as 200 demonstrative pictures of yogi postures for easier comprehension.
5. Yoga Anatomy - Leslie Kaminoff, Amy Matthews
An excellent resource for yoga practitioners and trainers, which allows taking a deeper look into yoga poses and the interaction of our muscles, joints, and nerves. Includes classification of the postures, supported by accurate anatomical illustrations.
6. Zen Meditation for Beginners: A Practical Guide to Inner Calm - Bonnie Myotai Treace
This incredible book, consisting of 10 short Zen principles and a few simple post-meditation exercises, helps readers establish a specific meditation routine regarding their problems and values. Learn how to appreciate the beauty of the moment and find harmony wherever you are.
7. Accessible Yoga: Poses and Practices for Every Body - Jivana Heyman
This book includes traditional and non-traditional techniques to access postures with the use of props and other methods. The author gives guides on simple practices for all people, regardless of age, abilities, or health condition.
8. The Yoga Anatomy Coloring Book: A Visual Guide to Form, Function, and Movement - Kelly Solloway
Discover a creative way of learning the anatomy behind yoga asanas. Study and relax while coloring black-and-white illustrations by Samantha Stutzman. Check your knowledge with 32 included flashcards.
9. Moon Meditations: 365 Nighttime Reflections for a Peaceful Sleep - Jenna Calabro
A collection of short calming affirmations for every night. With "Moon Meditations," supported by beautiful minimalistic drawings, you will learn how to control your anxiety and develop healthy sleeping habits.
10. No Mud, No Lotus - Thich Nhat Hanh
A philosophical work teaching how to stop running away from daily problems, face them, and reduce suffering. It's a simple guide on how to find happiness by embracing our struggles.
Conclusion
This short list included books on physical and spiritual practices that can support healthy mind and body conditions. All of them are suitable for beginners and people who already practice meditation and yoga and want to broaden their horizons.
We hope our recommendations will help you on your healing path.
