The Best Books On Yoga Philosophy For Yoga Teacher Trainings

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6 books

As a long-time student and teacher of yoga, I am always looking for ways to deepen my understanding of this ancient science of living. I have read many books on the philosophy and practice of yoga and taught in numerous yoga teacher trainings. After 25 years, I still discover new benefits as I deepen my understanding of this tradition’s peace-bringing principles. Hundreds of my yoga therapy clients have given me feedback on the benefits they, too, have received by integrating these teachings. Through the embodiment of yoga philosophy, we can truly transform our consciousness and reunite body, mind, and Spirit.

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Autobiography of a Yogi

Paramahansa Yogananda, 2009

If I were stranded on a desert island, the one book I would want would be Autobiography of a Yogi. It holds every principle we need for the evolution of consciousness, all within a captivating story of one yoga master’s fascinating life. I have read it six times now, and every time, I find new ah-ha’s and things that will improve my life. Since reading it the first time, I feel my capacity to love has increased exponentially and I understand far more about the purpose of life.

The Secret Power of Yoga

A Woman's Guide to the Heart and Spirit of the Yoga Sutras

Nischala Joy Devi, 2010

After reading more traditional versions of the Yoga Sutras and finding them a bit difficult to digest, this book made the classical yoga teachings much more understandable and applicable to my current experience of life. As a yoga teacher, I found new pragmatic ways to explain esoteric concepts to my students. This text was also a big inspiration for my own writing.

The Yoga of the Bhagavad Gita

An Introduction to India's Universal Science of God-Realization

Paramhansa Yogananda, 2007

The Bhagavad Gita is the most complete text of yoga philosophy. It can however be difficult to understand, as it is presented through an allegorical battle, which represents the inner battle of every human life between the ego and the soul. This version makes the essential teachings clear and very relatable and has helped me in my understanding of my own identity. I refer to this text often when helping my students connect to their divine nature as well as their human personality self.

The Holy Science

Sri Yukteswar Giri, 2020

For the serious student of yoga philosophy, this tiny book packs a mountain of wisdom as it establishes the inherent unity between the religious teachings of East and West. I particularly appreciated the explanation of the ‘mean-nesses of the heart’ which impede our spiritual progress. I find it is important to be aware of the obstacles that present themselves on the spiritual path so that I can prepare to overcome them and become a more compassionate and service-oriented person. For those interested in science, he also includes a great explanation of the ‘yugas’ or cycles of human existence.

True Yoga

Practicing With the Yoga Sutras for Happiness & Spiritual Fulfillment

Jennie Lee, 2016

My book, True Yoga, is an instructive and inspirational look at living the Eight Limbs of Yoga. It is used in Yoga Teacher Trainings worldwide as a foundational text for their Yoga Philosophy component. Making the wisdom of the ancient yogis understandable and practical for teachers and students alike, True Yoga is easy to read and implement. Methods for integrating the wisdom of the Yoga Sutras into daily life to maintain positive thoughts, manage stress, improve communication, and build new habits for success. It includes many of the daily practices, self-inquiry questions, and inspiring affirmations that I offer my Yoga Therapy clients to embody inner peace and spiritual integration.

Living Your Yoga

Finding the Spiritual in Everyday Life

Judith Hanson Lasater, 2016

Great ‘off the mat’ practices in this book to make the classical teachings practical. I appreciated her blending of the spiritual and the pragmatic uses in familial life, work and with relationship with oneself. Lasiter is one of the early Yoga Therapists I studied with and admire for her grounded approach.