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 practice

    Saha nau bhunaktu
    Together may we be nourished by this practice

    Saha virya karavavahai
    Together may we practice with wise, concentrated effort

    Tejas vi navadittamastu
    May this practice bring illumination, the brilliance of understanding

    Maa 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/Real

    Tamasoma jyothir gamaya
    May we move from darkness to light

    Mrityorma amrita gamaya
    May we move from the impermanent to the infinite

    Om shanti shanti shanti
    Om, peace peace peace

  • Om bhur bhuva swaha
    In the name of that which encompasses the physical, mental, and spiritual realms

    Tat savitur varenyam
    With adoration for that divine light that is the source of all life

    Bhargo devasya dhimahi
    We meditate on this effulgence of the divine

    Diyo yo na prachodayat
    May this light illumine our mind and hearts.

  • Lokah Samastah
    Sukhino Bhavantu

    May all beings everywhere be happy and free.