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Yoga is much more than the physical postures commonly associated with this word. Yoga is an advanced methaphysical science that has been developed over thousands of years and is designed to lead its practitioners towards enlightenment. In this book, Scott Shaw presents the reader with the historical foundations of yoga, in association with exacting methods of meditation, breath control, and spiritual practice; including detailed information on Kundalini and Tantra yoga. These techniques have traditionally only been revealed to advanced students of yoga. By practicing the techniques presented in this book, the reader may come to experience a healthier body, a calmer and more focused mind, and a deeper sense of spiritual awareness.

What can readers expect to find inside?

Scott Shaw presents the historical foundations of yoga with methods of meditation, breath control and spiritual practice, plus detailed information on Kundalini and Tantra yoga. It says the reader “may come to experience” a healthier body, a calmer and more focused mind and a deeper spiritual awareness.

Is it suitable for beginners?

The description says these techniques have traditionally only been revealed to advanced students. It does not say whether the book is suitable for beginners.

What does this book cover?

The Amazon description says yoga is much more than physical postures and is an advanced metaphysical science designed to lead practitioners towards enlightenment.

This summary is based on the book description on the Amazon page.

What does “spiritual” mean in a yoga context?

In yoga, “spiritual” can mean an inner discipline of ethics, attention and self-enquiry, as well as a connection to a religious tradition. The NCCIH guidance on yoga traces yoga to a spiritual practice and says the classical form goes well past physical postures. A guidebook with a spiritual focus is therefore working within a long tradition.

Readers who come for the physical side may find this a different register from the usual class. That is fine: you can choose which parts to explore. Be careful with sweeping statements, such as claims that a practice “leads to enlightenment”, which are articles of faith and cannot be tested.

If you are following a spiritual path, a trusted teacher can guide you better than a book. For physical or breathing practices, ask a qualified instructor and check with a doctor first if you have a health condition.

Related on this blog: Hatha Yoga Beyond the Workout: What “Hatha” Means, Its Traditional Aim and How to Practice Safely and A Short History of Yoga: From Ancient Texts to Hatha Classes and a Record Number of Americans

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