One of my lifelong favorite hobbies has been reading. I make it a goal to read at least 25 books a year (I’ve never listened to an audiobook, so they’re all read on my digital reader or in print), and at least a few of these books are based in the self-help/philosophical/spiritual realm. I find that these types of books can also have a positive effect on my yoga practice, as a student, as a yoga teacher and in everyday life.
In this first installment of five books I love that yogis may enjoy, as well, here are five books I’d recommend that may help you deepen your spiritual awareness and can positively impact your yoga practice.
P.S. If you’re on Goodreads, I review all books I read. Connect with me on Goodreads.
1. The Power of Now: A Guide to Spiritual Enlightenment, by Eckhart Tolle
The Power of Now: A Guide to Spiritual Enlightenment, by Eckhart Tolle, is one of my all-time favorite books, that I have re-read several times. If you’re interested in concepts related to mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR), I highly recommend it.
This book has had a profound effect on my life, in that the main message is that focusing on the past or future may create regret, uncertainty and negativity. The only thing we can control is our actions right now, in the present moment. By focusing on the present moment, you can achieve greater happiness.
Focusing on the present moment is a recurring theme in yoga practice, for exercises such as grounding and centering techniques. Tolle is a calming, encouraging presence, one I find I enjoy returning to again and again.
2. The Yamas & Niyamas: Exploring Yoga’s Ethical Practice, by Deborah Adele
I first read The Yamas & Niyamas: Exploring Yoga’s Ethical Practice, by Deborah Adele, as part of my yoga teacher training curriculum. As I write in my Goodreads review of The Yamas & Niyamas, you don’t have to be a yogi to enjoy this yoga book. It explains 10 yoga tenets that are principles you’d do well living by, including truthfulness, non-greed and purity.
The book is very relatable, with Adele weaving many personal stories into these yoga guidelines. She explains how to easily integrate the Yamas and Niyamas into your everyday life and provides examples of ways to put them into practice.
I like Adele’s friendly narratives, encouraging words and easy-to-understand explanations. I’ve read this twice already and will definitely be re-reading this many times in the future, because the insights are such great reminders for how to live a meaningful and positive life.
3. Creative Visualization: Use the Power of Your Imagination to Create What You Want in Your Life, by Shakti Gawain
If you enjoy meditation and classes like yoga nidra, Creative Visualization: Use the Power of Your Imagination to Create What You Want in Your Life, by Shakti Gawain, is a really great book to add to your collection. The book uses guided meditations and visualization exercises to assist with goal-setting and self-actualization.
The book is a simple guide toward learning how to use meditation as a positive force in your life, which makes it a nice intro to meditation book for beginners, as well. You could use the book to take friends and loved ones on guided meditations, too, spreading the positive effects of meditation throughout your circle with the help of this guide.
4. The Alchemist, by Paulo Coelho
I’ve included this novel, The Alchemist, by Paulo Coelho, in this round-up of books for yogis because the storytelling is beautiful, encouraging and affirming. Santiago is a shepherd on a quest, following his personal legend to encounter treasure. Along the way, he experiences loss, adventure and excitement. Hard work and acceptance of what’s happening in the moment assist him in his journey.
I found the settings of the book to be very beautiful to imagine. The simplicity of the actions were comforting. The book reminds you that the universe has a plan, and that your positive actions can help you move closer to what you’re meant to achieve.
5. The Fifth Agreement: A Practical Guide to Self-Mastery, by Don Miguel Ruiz and Don Jose Ruiz
If you love The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz, The Fifth Agreement: A Practical Guide to Self-Mastery (co-authored with his son Don Jose Ruiz) is even more satisfying. The book goes through the four agreements (be impeccable with your word, don’t take anything personally, don’t make assumptions, and always do your best) and adds a fifth: be skeptical, but learn to listen.
This is another book I’ve re-read and will continue to do so. I like how it compares your life to a movie you’re watching on a screen – everyone’s movie will look differently to every person, so there’s no need to compare or judge your own life.
Ruiz’s writing has a poetic quality to it. The book contains simple, easy-to-remember messages that I turn to repeatedly.
What’s Your Favorite Book for Yogis?
These are merely five books of many I like to recommend to friends who are interested in yoga principles like mindfulness, self-care and love for others and the world. Stay tuned for a future installment, where I’ll share more books for yogis.
I want to hear from you! What’s your favorite book with themes related to yoga, philosophy or spirituality? Share your recommendations in the comments.
Is there a yoga blog you’d like me to write about next on this yoga in Alexandria blog? Message me.
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