Table of Contents
Introduction 6
An ancient guide to healthy living
What is yoga?
The yogic path to well-being
The Hatha Yoga Pradipika
The benefits of yoga 16
Boosting self-healing
Muscles and movement
Aligning the posture
The breath of life
Supporting the nervous system
Yoga and the endocrine system
Yoga and relaxation
One pose, many benefits
Proper exercise 42
What is proper exercise?
Initial relaxation
Eye and neck exercises
Sun salutation
Single leg lifts
Double leg lifts
Headstand
Shoulderstand
Plough
Fish
Forward bend
Cobra
Locust
Bow
Half spinal twist
Crow
Peacock
Standing forward bend
Triangle
Beginner programs
Intermediate programs
Advanced programs
Proper breathing
Pranayama
Preparatory exercises
Alternate nostril breathing
Kapala bhati
Proper relaxation 186
Relaxation between asanas
Final relaxation
Complete yogic relaxation
Positive thinking and meditation 196
Why meditate?
The art of concentration
Practicing meditation
Managing stress
The law of karma
Proper diet 208
Yoga and vegetarianism
You are what you eat
Common concerns about the yogic diet
The transition toward a yogic diet
Cooking techniques
A week's menu plan
Breakfasts
Lunch
Salads and dressings
Dinner
Vegetables and condiments
Breads
Sweet treats and desserts
Snacks and beverages
Resources 250
Index 252
Acknowledgments 256
