Publisher's Synopsis
Yoga is not just a form of exercise, but a term that describes various meditative practices in eastern cultures. It is believed to be the encompassing truth of all activity, mental, physical and verbal. The word itself is commonly used to speak of Hatha Yoga and its postures (asanas), as practiced by a yogi or yogini. The eventual goal of yoga may vary - it can be used as a route to better health or a path to the attainment of Moksha or salvation, liberation from all worldly suffering and the eternal cycle of birth and death. Raja Yoga, Karma Yoga, Jnana Yoga, Bhakti Yoga and Hatha Yoga are the major branches of this philosophy. Most well known are the tenets of Raja Yoga, as compiled by the sage Patanjali in his Yoga Sutras, part of the Samkhya tradition. A number of other ancient texts, including the Upanishads, the Bhagwad Gita, the Hatha Yoga Pradipika, the Shiva Samhita and various Tantras also discuss Yoga and its way of thought in its myriad and complex forms. This book goes beyond the usual description of Yoga as a form of exercise. It discusses the philosophy and spirituality of the subject and show you, the reader, how it can be used to attain no just a well-conditioned body, but a balanced and healthy mind and soul as well
