The Doctrine and Practice of Yoga by Swami Mukerji

by Bibbi on July 7th, 2012

1922. Including the practices and exercises of concentration, both objective and subjective, and active and passive mentation, an elucidation of Maya, guru worship and the worship of the terrible, also the mystery of will force.

What is inside the book?

The listed topics are exercises of concentration, both objective and subjective, active and passive mentation, an explanation of Maya, guru worship, worship of the terrible and the mystery of will force.

What kind of book is The Doctrine and Practice of Yoga?

The description starts with the year 1922 and then lists the contents. The author named in the title is Swami Mukerji.

This summary is based on the book description on the Amazon page. The description is short, so check the Amazon page for the full contents.

How should I choose a yoga teacher or guide?

Older yoga texts often assume a close relationship between student and teacher. Today the equivalent decision is practical: whom do you learn from and how do you know they are qualified? The NIH yoga summary from NCCIH says to ask about the instructor’s training and experience and that learning on your own without supervision has been associated with increased risks.

Reasonable checks are a clear explanation of what a class involves, willingness to adapt poses, openness about limits of their expertise and respect for your boundaries. Be wary of anyone who discourages medical care, demands unquestioning obedience or claims unique secret powers.

Concentration exercises, which the book’s older title mentions, are attention practices. Start with a few minutes, and if you feel distressed, stop. The NIH meditation summary from NCCIH notes that a review found a negative experience in about 8 percent of participants. A doctor or therapist is the right person to ask about mental health. Take your time deciding, and ask to watch a class first. Trust grows over time, so there is no need to commit quickly.

Related reading on this blog: Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras: The Eight Limbs of Yoga Explained and What Is Yoga?

Book: The Doctrine and Practice of Yoga by Swami Mukerji
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