The word Yoga means to yoke or join. The practice of yoga is to recognize the union of body mind and spirit. They are always connected, but sometimes we forget.

It is important to understand that Hatha Yoga is only one of the 8 limbs of yoga. In Hatha Yoga the body is the tool to facilitate the recognition of our wholeness. All physical yoga is “hatha yoga”, from Iyengar to Ashtanga to Kundalini. By practicing the postures with the breath, slowly we remember, see or feel the connection.

Things to remember when coming to your mat:

Never practice on a full stomach
(Wait 2 hours for a light meal and 4 or more for a large meal.)

Wear clothing that is comfortable and easy to move in.

Establish a deep breath rhythm.

Your body, energy and mental state vary day to day.

Always respect yourself in the moment!

One of my favorite books on yoga is Erich Schiffmann's "Yoga- The Spirit and Practice of Moving Into Stillness." His articulation of the yoga practice is excellent and beautiful. He includes great photos of the poses and practice sequences for yoga at home. I have re-read it many times.

Another good yoga read is "The Heart of Yoga: Developing a Personal Practice" by TKV Desikachar. Desikachar's father was the renowned yogi Krishnamacharya and he continues his father's lineage of Vini Yoga (yoga adapted to the individual) in this book. He covers asanas, the bandhas, pranayama and the yoga sutras.

Bridging Yoga and Ayurveda, Mira Mehta wrote an excellent book called "Health Through Yoga, simple practice routines and a guide to the ancient teachings". She gives an overview of the Ayurvedic system and combines it with her yoga knowledge, put in easy to understand chapters. I love this book and often reference it for therapeutic applications of Ayurveda and Yoga!

OTHER RECOMMENDATIONS:

Wheels of Life - A Users Guide To The Chakra System by Anodea Judith and The Book Of Chakras by Ambika Wauters.