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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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For readers who prefer spiritual philosophy to posture-by-posture instruction, Forest Lectures on the Highest Yoga by Vladimir Antonov takes an unusually wide-ranging approach. It brings together lectures about religious and philosophical traditions, the meaning of life, and the author’s own view of spiritual development.

What does the book discuss?

The author’s online edition includes chapters addressing several named yoga traditions as well as other spiritual paths. Subjects range from Ashtanga, Kundalini and Kriya Yoga to Buddhism, Sufism and other systems of belief. The unifying theme is Antonov’s conviction that a common spiritual goal can be found across different traditions.

How should readers understand that claim?

It is a philosophical and theological position, not an established fact about all religions. Different traditions have distinctive histories, practices and teachings, and many adherents would not agree that they lead to exactly the same outcome. The most useful way to read Antonov may be as one author’s comparative spiritual interpretation, while consulting sources from the traditions he describes.

Is this a practical yoga manual?

Not in the usual modern sense. The book is organized around lectures and spiritual methods, so readers should not expect illustrated beginner sequences or step-by-step guidance from a yoga teacher. Some contemplative practices can be meaningful, but highly intensive meditation or breathing practices are not appropriate for everyone.

The NCCIH review of meditation discusses both the emerging research and the limitations of evidence about possible harms. Readers should be particularly careful when a book connects spiritual practice with health claims.

Where is it available?

The text is accessible through an online edition attributed to Antonov, including a PDF link and a full chapter list. A printed paperback has also been listed; stock status can change. Readers seeking to sample the content can begin with the online text.

Related on Veggie-Blog: Origins of Yoga.

Book: Forest Lectures on the Highest Yoga by Vladimir Antonov
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Ashram is the general term for a study center, retreat house, or monastic community in Hinduism, the millennia-old religious tradition of India. Ashrams of various kinds are now found throughout North America, and are popular venues for spiritual retreats, workshops, and classes.
Lighting the Lamp of Wisdom takes you into a typical week of retreat inside an ashram to demystify the ashram experience and show you what to expect from your own visit. You will experience all the elements of a typical day and week, including:

The colorful puja, or worship services
Meditation practices and yoga classes
Classes on Hindu scriptures
Chanting and music
Satsang: an informal talk with the ashram’s guru
Work practice
…and much more.

You’ll also meet some of the people who visit ashrams to hear their reasons for going there, as well as the spiritual benefits they derive from the experience. Also included are a helpful glossary, a list of books for further reading, and a directory to ashrams in
North America that will enable you to locate one near you and set up your own visit.

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