A list of books that I’ve read and enjoyed. Not all of these are ‘yoga books per se’ and some of them don’t even mention the word yoga. And yet, if read with an open mind and a sensibility for yoga then these authors may offer valuable insights to anyone with an inquisitive mind.

As someone who remains un-convinced by ‘styles’ of asana yoga, I take my reference as to what yoga is from the classical presentations of the practice and philosophy of yoga in its broadest sense. This list is not exhaustive, if you read any of these books I hope that they bring you as much insight, pleasure and wisdom as I have found in them.

Healing Yoga 

By Swami Ambikananda Saraswati

Explores the transformative power of yoga in promoting yoga a physical and mental practice with aim of addressing the flow of vitality. The book offers practical guidance on using yogic practices, including asanas, breathwork, and meditation to restore balance and enhance the healing process for the body as a whole. It might seem dated for the digital generation, but anyone whose been practising yoga for 20+ years and has owned yoga books before will recognise the format. See here if you’re interested in reading about pranayama.

By Hermann Hesse

The first of two works of fiction on this list, we follow the spiritual journey of a young man, Siddhartha; as he seeks enlightenment and self-understanding, exploring various paths of asceticism, pleasure, and wisdom. Through his encounters with different teachers and experiences, Siddhartha ultimately discovers that true enlightenment cannot be taught or learnt, it is a path that is unique to whomever walks it. Siddhartha’s story is a process acceptance of life’s paradoxes. I’ve mentioned Herman Hesse here too.

The Power of Now 

By Eckhart Tolle 

Emphasises the importance of living fully in the present moment to achieve inner peace and spiritual awakening. By transcending the ego and mental distractions, Tolle guides readers toward a deeper awareness of the self and a profound connection to the present, which leads to freedom from suffering and a greater sense of fulfilment. In the preface Tolle acknowledges the many teachers that have informed this book, much of this book is taken from a series of lectures given by Swami Ambikananda in the 1990s. If you’re interested in reading about yoga and mental health check this out.

Tao Te Ching

By Lao Tzu (translated by Stephen Mitchell)

Is a timeless philosophical text that offers profound wisdom on living in harmony with the Tao, or the natural flow of the universe. Through poetic verses, it explores the principles of simplicity, humility, and non-action, encouraging individuals to cultivate balance, inner peace, and a deeper connection to the world around them. A must read for anyone who thinks yoga is about passivity and surrender. This translation is my personal favourite for it’s poetic charm.

The Only Dance There Is

By Ram Dass 

Explores the nature of spiritual awakening and the transformative power of love and presence. Born Richard Alpert, he was a successful psychiatrist and Harvard Professor. The first of psychonauts he and Timothy Leary had ripping yarns administering LSD for clinical study in the 60s. Through his personal experiences and teachings, Ram Dass encourages readers to embrace life’s mysteries and challenges, realising that every moment is an opportunity to experience deeper awareness and connection with the divine. I love this book for the wonderful way Ram Dias communicates his curiosity for mysticism.

Flow: The Psychology of Optimal Experience 

By Mihály Csíkszentmihályi, 

The author explores the concept of “flow,” a state of deep focus and immersion in activities that provide a balance of challenge and skill, in the search for fulfilment and happiness. Through psychological research and practical insights, Csíkszentmihályi demonstrates how cultivating flow can enhance personal growth, creativity, and overall quality of life. Csíkszentmihályi brings in his experience as well as lots of research. Click the link for more about the psychology of yoga.

Katha Upanishad 

Translated by Swami Ambikananda Saraswati

The first of the Vedic cannon to mention yoga as a philosophy and practice. The text is sristi; meaning received wisdom by ancient seers. It delves into a profound dialogue between the young seeker Nachiketa and Yama, the Lord of Death, exploring the nature of the self (atma), the path to self-realisation, and the ultimate truth of existence. This ancient wisdom emphasises the path inward as the means to transcend fear and attain liberation (moksha).

The Hatha Yoga Pradipika

By Svātmārāma

Is a foundational text on Hatha Yoga, detailing physical postures (asana), breathing techniques (pranayama), and cleansing practices (shatkarmas) to prepare the body and mind for higher states of meditation. It emphasis’s the balance of energy through discipline and practice, guiding practitioners toward spiritual enlightenment and union with the self. For more about creating a personal yoga practice read here.

The Yoga Sutras 

By Patanjali 

Is a foundational text that outlines the philosophy and practice of yoga, offering an eightfold path (real Ashtanga Yoga, not the ‘style’ of asana) to attain self-realisation and liberation. Through its concise aphorisms, it explores concepts like mental discipline, meditation, and ethical conduct as means to still the mind and achieve union with the divine.

FUP

By Jim Dodge

Hilarious work of short fiction that has no mention yoga. It hints at first nation Americans mythology, involves a pig hunt and a 20 lbs mallard duck that drinks “ol’ death whisper” a hooch that has life extending properties.

Meditations

By Marcus Aurelius

Roman Emperor and stoic philosopher. You can open this book randomly at any page and it will probably blow your mind. A collection of aphorisms (not meditation techniques) that TicToc-ers would love, thankfully nothing so cringe as ‘Live, laugh, love’. Here’s a gem: “The object of life is not to be on the side of the majority, but to escape finding oneself in the ranks of the insane.”

Zen in the Art of Archery

By Eugen Herrigel

The autobiographical account of a German philosophy Professor who, whilst living in Tokyo decides take archery classes. The rationale being, ‘I’ve fired a gun before’. I love this book because his story is like very much like most of ours – he enters as a seeker not knowing what it is he is looking for. Along the way discovers that there is no target, no end goal but the self. My favourite part is when he tries to trick his teacher.