We can’t think of anything better at this time of year, than to curl up with a good book. If you haven’t discovered the books written by some of our teachers, then you’re in for a real treat. Settle down with a warming brew whilst picking which of these books you read first.
Books to warm the spirit
We think that a pile of books that warm the spirit and soothe the soul bring us replenishment in winter. We think that this selection of books from our teachers offers real delights. There’s something for everyone, whether you’re looking for practical guidance, inspiration or something to deepen your practice. Enjoy your winter reading.
Andrew McGonigle – Supporting Yoga Students with Common Injuries and Conditions
Our very own Dr Yogi has a fantastic book to support yoga students. We are all familiar with common yoga injuries and have probably all shared a combination of lower back pain, wrist, shoulder and hip issues. What we love about Dr Yogi’s book is how empowering it is for students. There are so many resources out there which can focus on stoking a fear response, Andrew McGonigle’s book offers a depth of knowledge about the psychology of pain, research into biomechanics and a real understanding of anatomy. The book is accessible and engaging. If you’re a serious student with an interest in anatomy then this is a must have!
Dan Peppiatt – Less
If you feel that you could benefit with ‘less’ in your life, Dan provides the perfect guide in Less. Dan writes: “I felt deeply, like many do, that a shift of some kind is needed; a wake up call to remind humans that we can’t just keep taking more and hoping that it fills the hole we feel inside of us. Real and lasting change has to come from inside that hole, not from outside of it.” Dan’s book is available as an e-book by donation.
Jean Hall – Breathe: simple breathing techniques for a calmer, happier life
A beautiful book that is accessible and powerful. The simple techniques Jean shares will transform your breathing practices. Jean offers methods to increase awareness and mindfulness. There are detailed instructions about how to undertake the exercise and insightful explanations about how the breath affects your body and mind. In addition to detailed exploration of breathing techniques, the book is a treasury of information and inspiration. This book really is a gem.
Joo Teoh Qigong in yoga teaching and practice
Learn how to incorporate Qigong principles, postures and themes into yoga. If you’ve ever wondered about how the yogic principle of ease and steadiness and the Chinese understanding of active relaxation can be woven together to find greater stillness. Deepen your insight into working with intention and understand better how to navigate the ups and downs of life. We love Joo‘s book because it is most simply inspiring, thoughtful and beautifully written.
Lisa Sanfilippo – Sleep Recovery
Sleep Recovery offers a holistic and integrated approach to getting a better night’s sleep. Lisa‘s book offers a variety of harmonious approaches and will change the way you think about your day. If you ever have difficulty sleeping or know someone that does this book might give you a better understanding of why but also how you might tackle the issue. The book offers a recovery map, asks the poor sleeper to take on the role of detective in determining why they are sleeping poorly and explores how ayurveda might offer a solution. You can read our full review in this article, or try Lisa’s Sleep Recovery course.
Mimi Kuo-Deemer – Qigong and the Tai Chi Axis and Xiu Yang
Learn more about the five phases and elements that Qigong draws on in Mimi’s beautiful and practical introduction. The book leads you on a journey as you explore how to bring greater balance to your physical, emotional and mental health. The book includes clear instructions and photographs to support you in developing your own qigong practice and draws from a variety of different forms including: 8 brocades; five animal frolics; Tai Chi Qigong 18 forms and Five Element Practices. Mimi’s second book, Xiu Yang offers a journey of a different kind which shows us how inner balance results in outer radiance. To try self-cultivation, read this article full of simple suggestions from Mimi.
Norman Blair – Brightening our inner skies
Explore yoga, self transformation and social responsibility in Norman’s beautiful and thought provoking book. This is a beautifully designed practical guide to support, deepen and enhance your practice. Engage with your practice and your purpose and use this book as a deeply personal guide. You can get a taste of Norman’s wisdom and words in his live online workshop in December. If you haven’t been in Norman’s classes we recommend you sign up and then treat yourself to his book to allow his words to deepen and sustain your practice.
Petra Coveney – Menopause Yoga: A Holistic Guide to Supporting Women on their Menopause Journey
Bringing together western medical science and eastern wellbeing for menopause education, Petra’s book helps the reader to develop their understanding of menopause and women’s health. The book is rooted in research and offers yoga sequences to support women at every stage of their menopause journey. Why not try this book as a support to Menopause for Modern Life as it offers further background information and research into the material.
Sally Parkes – The Manual of Yoga Anatomy and The Yoga Healing Handbook
Ever wondered what happens in your body anatomically when doing yoga? Sally introduces the anatomy of 30 key yoga asana in her book. Beginning with a clear breakdown of the musculoskeletal system and an introduction to yoga itself, the book explores 30 key poses in detail, with easy to follow step-by-step advice. In The Yoga Healing Handbook, Sally offers postures, breathing and relaxation techniques for spiritual and physical balance. This is a wonderful and practical guide. Why not join Sally live online for our January retreat and fire up 2022 with strength and gratitude?
Leave a Reply