Reading resources:
Yoga for Transformation, by Gary Kraftsow
An eloquent guide to yoga as a means of spiritual growth and transformation, as well as a practice for physical, energetic, and mental wellbeing.
The Heart of Yoga, by TKV Desikachar
A traditional philosophical background of yoga from the founder of the Viniyoga tradition and son of Krishnamacharya, the “father of modern yoga”.
The Wise Heart, by Jack Kornfield
Buddhist psychology and mindfulness
Full Catastrophe Living, by John Kabat-Zinn
Founder of Mindfulness-Based Stress Release, a guided meditation and yoga practice rooted in the Vipassana meditation tradition
Yoni Shakti, by Uma Dinsmore Tuli
Yoga and Tantra for women’s health, empowerment, and freedom
Restore and Rebalance, by Judith Hanson Lasater
Relax and Renew, by Judith Hanson Lasater
Excellent detailed guides for restorative yoga practice using lots of props for maximum comfort
Radiant Rest, by Tracee Stanley
A lovely easy to read overview of Yoga Nidra as a philosophy and practice.
Chanting words and translations:
-
Saha na vavatu
Together may we be protected in this practiceSaha nau bhunaktu
Together may we be nourished by this practiceSaha virya karavavahai
Together may we practice with wise, concentrated effortTejas vi navadittamastu
May this practice bring illumination, the brilliance of understandingMaa vidvesa vahai
May we not hate each other (may we not believe the misperceptions that lead to hatred)Om Shanti Shanti Shanti
In the name of the primordial vibration of the universe, peace, peace, peace -
Om Asatoma sad gamaya
May we move from the untrue/unreal to the Truth/RealTamasoma jyothir gamaya
May we move from darkness to lightMrityorma amrita gamaya
May we move from the impermanent to the infiniteOm shanti shanti shanti
Om, peace peace peace -
Om bhur bhuva swaha
In the name of that which encompasses the physical, mental, and spiritual realmsTat savitur varenyam
With adoration for that divine light that is the source of all lifeBhargo devasya dhimahi
We meditate on this effulgence of the divineDiyo yo na prachodayat
May this light illumine our mind and hearts. -
Lokah Samastah
Sukhino BhavantuMay all beings everywhere be happy and free.