Customer Reviews

Power Yoga: Connect to the Core with Astanga Yoga

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

I'm only a beginner at Yoga having toyed around with various books, videos and classes over the last 6 months. Astanga Vinyasa Yoga has everything else beat hands down. I originally took up yoga to increase my flexibility and balance for Jujitsu training but I find that the muscular toning is so good that I now no longer go to the gym (still do cardio work though). The other great advantages Yoga gives me is portability (I travel a fair bit) and a fantastic feeling of well-being. Although she often recommends supplemental instruction, Liz Lark's book has been everything I have needed to gain worth-while benefit from Astanga Yoga. For the most part, Liz's book is well illustrated and clear but is let down in a few minor areas by bad editting (hence the 4 vice 5 star rating-- wrong photos causing minor confusion). Still, a great book that's a pleasure to read.

The contents of this book are extensive, the pictures illustrate the basic aspects of the poses well, and the text goes beyond simply telling you to put your hand here and your foot there. However, a yoga beginner should probably spend some time learning some basics and becoming comfortable with yoga practice before leaping into this particular book. Yogis and yoginis with even a little experience will get much more out of this otherwise excellent book than a beginner will.

This book is laid out very nicely, with easy to follow pictures. But I found it to be geared more toward intermediate to advanced yoga, would not recommend for beginners.

I bought this book about 2 years ago now, and have taken it with me everywhere. It got me used to the Astanga way before I found a teacher. Liz explains it all so clearly, and in depth, but stays away from those big words that many people use!! The photos are very inspiring -- seeing the strength and peace on the faces of the practitioners.

It's best to use this book alongside taking lessons, and Liz explains why. Don't buy this if you just want a follow-along exercise plan. Do buy it if you want to integrate calm and gentleness with strength and poise.

This is in my top 10 most useful books to have.