Books Every Yogi Should Read

5 Books Every Yogi Should Read

Books Every Yogi Should: Whether you are walking through the doors of a Yoga studio for the first time or you’ve perfected your headstand, we all look for a bit of inspiration in our Yoga practice once in a while. After all, the cornerstone of Yoga, and probably what led you to practice in the first place, is inspiration! It is no surprise that this ancient discipline continues to inspire, as the roots of modern asana can be traced back to sacred texts composed in the forests of India. Want to find your courage? There’s a pose for that. Are you seeking to cultivate greater openness and compassion within yourself? Several poses will help with that. A constant companion, coach, and cheerleader, all within the wisdom of your heart, Yoga will inspire you along your journey, no matter what twists and turns you encounter.

We asked around to see what good reads inspire yogis of the modern age. Here are five books that come highly recommended!

1. The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali by Alistair Shearer

Without a doubt, this book title rolls off the tongue of Yoga practitioners across the globe. Of the earliest and most sacred spiritual texts, The Yoga Sutras is a response to the transcending query of “who am I?” and “what is the purpose of life?” Patanjali demystifies Yoga, teaching readers how to quiet the mind to settle into the serenity of the Self. Alistair Shearer’s refined translation of the Yoga Sutras preserves Patanjali’s profound wisdom while presenting it with fresh insight for the modern era. The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali is a book that beckons to those on the quest for self-realization. Suddenly, the ever-elusive concept of enlightenment is at your fingertips!

2. The Yamas and Niyamas: Exploring Yoga’s Ethical Practice by Deborah Adele

In the Yoga Sutras, the Yamas and Niyamas are introduced as the foundational first two limbs of the eightfold path. Their lofty wisdom warrants an entire book, as they represent the foundational tenets of yogic thought and the right way of living. Deborah Adele’s interpretation weaves the Yamas and Niyamas into a rich tapestry of storytelling and personal inquiry, taking a deeper look into the concepts of non-violence, truthfulness, non-stealing, non-excess, non-possessiveness, purity, contentment, self-discipline, self-study, and surrender. Each stitch will liberate you to take ownership of your life and direct you toward the contentment you search for. This book is a discerning narrative on how to live your Yoga life, beyond the mat.

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3. Untethered Soul: The Journey Beyond Yourself by Michael A. Singer

We have all been to that class. The class where the Yoga instructor demonstrates full splits, and you think, “I can’t do that!” An accumulation of our past, sometimes before we even entertain a challenge, our inner voice can shut us down without us even noticing. Like a lens of awareness, Michael A. Singer helps the reader identify limiting beliefs, biases, and sensitivities within themselves. This book will lift your relationship to your Self, affirming serenity and inner peace so that you can soar above your boundaries. With happiness as your compass and self-realization as your path, Untethered Soul will help you to navigate your inner landscape with abandon.

4. Eastern Body Western Mind by Anodea Judith

This thoughtful exploration of the Eastern chakra system, presented through the lens of Western psychology, offers contemporary practitioners a relevant and accessible perspective. Illustrated with personal stories and case studies, Anodea Judith brings a fresh approach to understanding the energetic body. Using the structure of the chakra system as a map, each chapter focuses on a single chakra, its traits, and how to sustain the harmony of these energy centres. Eastern Body, Western Mind introduces fresh perspectives to the Western understanding of health and healing.

5. Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear by Elizabeth Gilbert

Chalked with inspiration and empowerment, Big Magic is a book that will awaken your soul. Digging deep into the process of creativity, Elizabeth Gilbert offers potent insight into the mysterious nature of inspiration. How do we wrestle with what we love most, with fearless curiosity? What is the approach we must embody to live our most creative life? Whatever your passion, Big Magic comes to those who are open to its teachings.

For the curious yogi in search of their authentic Self, inspiration is the spice of living your Yoga. There is no better soul food than a good book, and we know these top five books deliver! With every turn of the page, there is opportunity for self-realization, with every chapter, a time to reflect, and with every book, a world of adventure.

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