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Not every yoga book is about flexibility or a morning stretch. Lessons in Gnani Yoga: The Yoga of Wisdom takes a philosophical route, asking what we can understand about consciousness, the self and the nature of existence. Its emphasis is reflection rather than physical postures, making it a different kind of introduction to the yoga tradition.

What is Gnani Yoga?

Gnani Yoga, also commonly spelled Jnana Yoga, is generally described as a path of knowledge and inquiry. Instead of starting with poses, it invites readers to consider ideas about identity, perception and reality. These are questions of philosophy and spirituality; they should not be confused with conclusions established by contemporary medical science.

Who wrote this book?

The author is credited as Yogi Ramacharaka, a pen name used by the American writer William Walker Atkinson. First published in the early twentieth century, the book reflects the language and spiritual assumptions of its era. Its chapters explore subjects such as the unity of life, cosmic evolution, the self and karma. Read it as a historical interpretation of yoga philosophy rather than as a modern academic textbook.

Is the book still available?

Yes, the work survives in several editions, including e-book and printed reprints, so check which edition you are buying.

Who will enjoy it?

Readers interested in the history of yoga in the West, Vedanta-inspired ideas, or reflective spiritual writing may enjoy this classic. Someone wanting step-by-step poses, anatomical instruction or a beginner’s fitness routine should look elsewhere. If the broader meaning of yoga interests you, the NCCIH overview explains how modern classes tend to emphasise postures, breath and meditation.

Related on Veggie-Blog: The origins of yoga and What is yoga?

Book: Lessons in Gnani Yoga by Yogi Ramacharaka (William Walker Atkinson)
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Yoga Vashisht or Heaven Found
by Rishi Singh Gherwal

Excerpts from the shorter Yoga Vasishta

This is a translation of the Laghu Yoga Vashishta, traditionally written by the sage Vasistha, one of the teachers of Rama. This is the ‘shorter’ Yoga Vashishta. This is not an academic or critical translation, but it may appeal to the casual reader. The author of this book, Singh Gherwal, may have been a westerner with a Hindu pseudonym. He states that he is a teacher of Kundalini Yoga. Gherwal wrote a number of popularized books on this and related topics.

We have two Yoga Vashishts, one going under the name great, the other small. This is the small book; both hooks are the work of the Rishi Vashisht, and it is the book for those who are seeking truth but not for the ignorant. It is the best book on wisdom and gives seven states of wisdom by understanding the liberation easily to be attained, and it also gives us the seven states of ignorance. It gives spiritual food for those who hunger. “No one can miss the God consciousness within,” Swami Ram Tritha once said. It is true and I agree with the Swami. It is the best work for self realization. In it, one will find the answer to, who created this universe; the cause of and how to cure diseases. It reveals the mastery of the Kundalini, the Mother of the Universe, and her power; how to perform levitation, and the secret of the long lived Yogi.

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NANO Yoga combines four elements to bring about an intense whole person workout in about 15 minutes. Results include, a cleansing of the inside of the body, steadiness of emotions, improved balance and a better sense of well being. It is a tri-binding life experience for whole person clarity. By reducing angst the mind becomes clear to pray, the prayer enters the cells thru focused breathing and nerve channels that are opened during asana. The spirit resides in all the cells and is awakened thru the synergy of the four components of NANO Yoga. Just like an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. This routine done 5 times a week will cleanse the internal organs and oxygenate the entire system, thus increasing your level of fitness. The key to NANO Yoga is its small time requirement and its efficiency in producing such great levels of balance, flexibility, toning, weight control and mental focus. Generally your blood pressure will stableize at a good level and your outlook on life will improve.

Book: NANO Yoga by Doug Hayward
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