The Practice of the Six Yogas of Naropa by Glenn H. Mullin
The Practice of the Six Yogas of Naropa is not a general yoga exercise book. Edited, introduced and translated by Glenn H. Mullin, it brings together important texts from Tibetan Buddhism concerning an advanced Vajrayana meditation tradition. Readers looking for the history, literature and context of these practices will find a very different experience from the yoga books usually found in a fitness section.
What are the Six Yogas of Naropa?
The tradition is associated with the Indian masters Tilopa and Naropa and its transmission to Tibet through Marpa the Translator. The six practices are often described as inner heat, illusory body, clear light, consciousness transference, forceful projection and bardo yoga. These are technical practices within Tibetan Buddhism, and their names alone do not explain their meaning or method.
What does the book contain?
The publisher describes a collection of foundational writings, including texts attributed to Tilopa and Naropa and later contributions from Tibetan teachers. Alongside translations and historical material, it contains a practice manual and discussions of how the Six Yogas continued through different lineages. The value of this compilation lies in access to primary religious materials with explanatory context, not in a list of quick exercises for stress relief.
Who is Glenn H. Mullin?
Mullin is known for translating and writing about Tibetan Buddhist traditions. For this particular publication, Shambhala Publications explicitly credits him as editor, translator and author of the introduction. Giving that credit accurately matters because the collection includes historical texts by other teachers rather than representing a single modern author’s original yoga system.
Is it suitable for someone new to meditation?
It is best approached as a serious study text. The publisher’s reader’s guide to Naropa states that the Six Yogas are advanced tantric practices requiring close guidance from a qualified teacher. Reading about them can be an introduction to their historical and doctrinal setting, but the book should not be treated as authorization to attempt the practices independently.
How is this different from everyday mindfulness?
Mindfulness exercises offered in many contemporary settings usually focus on present-moment attention and awareness. The NCCIH meditation overview is useful for learning about those general approaches. The Six Yogas of Naropa, however, belong to a specific religious tradition with its own purposes, teachings and requirements. They should not be presented as interchangeable.
Is the original book available?
Yes. The publisher currently lists the paperback The Practice of the Six Yogas of Naropa (ISBN 9781559392563) as available.
Related on Veggie-Blog: Tantric Yoga and the Wisdom Goddesses and The Path of Yoga. These discuss different traditions.
Book: The Practice of the Six Yogas of Naropa, edited and translated by Glenn H. Mullin
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