Yoga for Mental Health
When Yoga Practice is Not Enough
Welcome to my blog about yoga, meditation and mindfulness. I believe that yoga and mindfulness practices can be helpful for mental health. However, sometimes a more personalized approach may be necessary. I recommend seeking professional help if you are struggling with mental health issues.
Recommended Books
- The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali by Sri Swami Satchidananda:
One of the foundational texts of classical yoga philosophy. I use this as my "bible study" every morning. Satchidananda has a superb grasp on the subject and presents it in a understandable and relatable way. By far, the first book I would recommend to someone seriously interested in yoga.
-
The Bhagavad Gita for Daily Living by Eknath Easwaran:
A phenomenal verse by verse commentary. His presentation is tender yet powerful, and I find myself always going back. I have read through the series twice and always find new truths. A compassionate and inspirational author, I've treasured every one of his books that I've had the pleasure of reading.
-
The Yoga Sutras Desk Reference: A Comprehensive Guide to the Core Concepts of Yoga by Nicolai Bachman:
An incredible resource for accessing, understanding, and practicing the core spiritual teachings of Patañjali’s Yoga Sutras. This is the book I wish I had when I started studying the sutras. Core concepts are presented one by one in the first section. Additional sections contain translation details, a section for chanting the sutras and copious appendices with a wealth of information. This is a must have for anyone on the yogic path.
-
Living Your Yoga by Judith Hanson Lasater:
An inspiring and practical guide to the wisdom of the Yoga Sutras and Bhagavad Gita, and how to put to work in your daily life.
-
The Yamas and Niyamas: Exploring Yoga's Ethical Practice by Deborah Adele:
A guide exploring the first two limbs of the eight-fold path of the Yoga Sutras. The yamas "restraints" encompass nonviolence, truthfulness, not stealing, nonexcess, and nonpossessiveness. The niyamas "observances" include purity, contentment, self-discipline, self-study, and surrender.
-
Hatha Yoga Pradipika by Swami Muktibodhananda:
This text elucidates the entire science of hatha yoga (asana, pranayama, shatkarma, mudra and bandha) as it was conceived and practised not only for health and fitness but for awakening the vital energies: pranas, chakras and kundalini shakti.
-
Light on Yoga by B.K.S. Iyenagr:
A comprehensive source on asana postures and breathing exercises using Iyengar's method.