52 Books for Yoga Teacher Training To Grow Your Journey
Whether you are signed up for a yoga teacher training, already a teacher or just looking around to grow your practice. The list I made of recommended books for yoga teacher training is for everyone.
The difference between a fitness class and Yoga is the history behind it. Yoga is over 4000 years old. When you sign up for teacher training, there is a lot of information to learn. From poses (asanas), how to prepare and teach a class, how to set up a business, the history and philosophies, and what it means to be a teacher, the knowledge you will uncover is endless.
How are you supposed to cram 4000 years in your brain? Not to mention all the different types of yoga classes, meditations, pranayama, the 8 limbs of yoga, the Niyamas and Yamas, the Mudras and Bandhas etc. No wonder there are so many resources and books.
Some of the selections are from some of the most iconic figures in Yoga like Patanjali and B.K.S Iyengar. Others include more modern ones like Bernie Clark and Paul Grilley.
If you are feeling overwhelmed, take it as a live project to keep growing, learning and understanding the practice of yoga. We call it a journey after all!
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Why you need this list of Yoga books
I remember after completing my 200 hours of Yoga teacher training, I didn’t feel ready to teach, I was scared to hurt someone and didn’t know how to be a teacher yet. It takes time and practice to find your style and voice. On top of that, I had to learn how to set up my business, website, accounting, marketing, social media etc.
After completing my certification, I became obsessed with Yin Yoga and Ayurveda. I dedicated a section below for the most famous books.
You never really know what you can learn, I loved the “Yamas and Niyamas” by Deborah Adele. I got the audiobook and the electronic version from my library. It was a nice book to read and listen to on my vacation while I was driving in the mountains of British Columbia.
I also found myself falling in love with anatomy and the concept of sequencing, that is how I found “The sequencing bible” by Eleanor Evrard and it helped me to be ready to write down my Yoga flow.
There is a resource for everyone depending where you are in your journey. Take it one book at a time! I refer to most of these books at least monthly.
Where to find them
You can select each picture below they come with a direct link to Amazon, I do not make any money here. I don’t make enough for Amazon to want me. Most are in Kindle format, I don’t know if they are free with a subscription.
I found most of them at the library or in a thrift shop. I guess other yogis read them (I especially like reading the notes they left).
If you download the application, Honey, it can help you find the cheapest one online.
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52 Books for Yoga Teacher Training
I divided the list of books into different categories to make it easier.
General Section
Gheranda Samhita by Sage Gheranda
This edition of the Gheranda Samhita includes a new introduction, the original Sanskrit text, a new English translation, and thirty-nine full-page photographs.
Hatha Yoga Pradipika by Swami Muktibodhananda
The Hatha Yoga Pradipika, or Light on Hatha Yoga, is a comprehensive text compiled by Maharshi Swatmarama. It includes the original Sanskrit text along with a translation and detailed commentary in English by Swami Satyananda and Swami Muktibodhananda.
This text explains the entire science of hatha yoga, which includes asanas, pranayama, Shatkarma, mudra, and bandha. The techniques mentioned in the text are not only for health and fitness but also for awakening the vital energies of pranas, chakras, and kundalini shakti.
Kriya Yoga for Beginners: The Ultimate Guide to Yoga Asanas, Mudras, Meditation, Pranayama, Kundalini Awakening, and Samadhi by Mari Silva
This comprehensive guide will provide you with a clear understanding of Kriya Yoga, including its core principles and historical background. You will also learn about the different techniques you can utilize to enhance your spiritual journey through this powerful practice.
During your yoga teacher training, you will learn various styles of yoga classes, the list below has been divided between the most common ones.
Yin Yoga
Yin Yoga: Principles and Practice by Paul Grilley
Paul Grilley explains how to practice yin postures and their relation to acupuncture through Modern Meridian Theory.
The Complete Guide to Yin Yoga by Bernie Clark
This book offers a functional approach to the practice of yoga. Excellent for any student during their yin yoga teacher training. Emphasizing targeted areas highlights the importance of stress in reducing fragility and building antifragility. The book also explains the nature of creep and the significance of counterposes, with a revised list of effective counterpostures. It includes many new photographs of the postures and their variations for different body types. Additionally, the book provides a current overview of the physiology of tissues and the energy body, reflecting a new understanding of the science of fascia and cellular signalling. Finally, the book includes many other enhancements.
The Therapeutic Yoga Kit by Cheri Clampett and Biff Mithoefer
Cheri Clampett and Biff Mithoefer have combined the gentle healing of Therapeutic Yoga and the quiet awareness of a yin practice to present a total of 16 gentle postures that can relieve stress and fatigue, as well as promote recovery from injury and illness. This is all included in The Therapeutic Yoga Kit.
Yoga Nidra
The Book of Yoga Nidra Meditation Scripts
The Book of Yoga Nidra Meditation Scripts is a valuable resource for yoga teachers, practitioners, wellness providers, and anyone looking to facilitate meaningful Yoga Nidra sessions with ease.
Learn and teach Pranayama
Light on Pranayama: The Yogic Art of Breathing by B.K.S Iyengar
B.K.S. Iyengar’s 200-week yoga practice is highlighted with 190 photos of himself, covering techniques, common errors and a progressive approach.
The Science of Pranayama by Swami Sivananda Saraswati
The book provides guidance to unleash harmony within oneself and includes illustrations and photos.
The Yoga of Breath: A Step-by-Step Guide to Pranayama by Richard Rosen
The book “The Yoga of Breath” serves as a comprehensive guide to learning pranayama and integrating it into an existing yoga routine. The author, Richard Rosen, presents an easy-to-follow approach with clear illustrations and step-by-step descriptions of breath and body awareness exercises. The book also delves into the history and philosophy of pranayama, offers practical tips for practice, and teaches readers how to use props to enhance the exercises.
History & Philosophy
The Patanjali Yoga Sutras by Maharishi Patanjali
The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, the foundation text of Raja Yoga, is one of the six orthodox astika schools of Hindu philosophy.
The book explains what each 196 Sutras entails.
Shiva Samhita by Srisa Chandra Vasu
Shiva Samhita is a Sanskrit text on yoga, which was first published in 1914. The author of the text is unknown. It is believed that the text was addressed by the Hindu god Shiva to his consort Parvati.
The text consists of various chapters discussing yoga, the importance of a guru (teacher) for a student, and different asanas, mudras, and siddhis (powers) that can be attained through yoga and tantra.
The Bhagavad Gita by Eknath Easwaran
If you have been interested in Yoga and want to learn more. The Bhagavad Gita is one of the most popular texts due to its history.
On the eve of a great battle, Prince Arjuna asked his spiritual guide some direct and uncompromising questions. In his book, Eknath Easwaran provides cultural and historical context and explains the key concepts of Hindu religious thought and the technical vocabulary of yoga.
Patanjali Yoga Sutras by Sri Sri Ravishankar
The ancient Sutras, which are at least 4,000 years old, encompass the teachings of yoga on ethics, meditation, and physical postures, and also guide how to handle everyday situations. Within this traditional framework, Sri Swamiji offers practical advice based on his own experiences to help individuals achieve physical, mental, and emotional balance by mastering their minds.
Autobiography of a Yogi by Paramahansa Yogananda
The ancient Sutras, which are at least 4,000 years old, encompass the teachings of yoga on ethics, meditation, and physical postures, and also guide how to handle everyday situations. Within this traditional framework, Sri Swamiji offers practical advice based on his own experiences to help individuals achieve physical, mental, and emotional balance by mastering their minds
Four Chapters on Freedom: by Satyananda Saraswati
Four Chapters on Freedom is a guide for yogic aspirants and spiritual seekers on the path of raja yoga. It includes the sutras in Sanskrit, transliteration and translation.
Gheranda Samhita by Swami Niranjanananda Saraswati
This text is a classical description of the seven limbs of yoga, which were taught by Sage Gheranda.
Living with the Himalayan Masters by Swami Rama
This book has the potential to change your life. It introduces you to some of the greatest spiritual teachers of the twentieth century, including Mataji of Assam, a sage who never slept even at the age of ninety-six. You will also learn about Gudari Baba, who taught Swami Rama the importance of direct experience, Yogi Sri Aurobindo, who combined meditation with action, and Uria Baba, who showed that everyone can heal.
Light on Life by B.K.S. Iyengar
Here Iyengar explores the yogic goal to integrate the different parts of the self (body, emotions, mind, and soul), the role that the yoga postures and breathing techniques play in our search for wholeness, the external and internal obstacles that keep us from progressing along the path, and how yoga can transform our lives and help us to live in harmony with the world around us. For the first time, Iyengar uses stories from his own life, humour, and examples from modern culture to illustrate the profound gifts that yoga offers.
Jaya: An Illustrated Retelling Of The Mahabharata by Devdutt Pattanaik
Jaya is a funny retelling of Mahabharata with the author’s prejudices lurking from behind the text.
Ashtanga Yoga
Yoga Mala by Pattabhi Jois
Yoga Mala―a “garland of yoga”―is Jois’s authoritative guide to Ashtanga. In it, he outlines the ethical principles and philosophy underlying the discipline, explains important terms and concepts, and guides the reader through Ashtanga’s Sun Salutations and the subsequent primary sequence of forty-two asanas, or poses, precisely describing how to execute each position and what benefits each provides. It is a foundational work on yoga by a true master.
Techniques & Practices
Asana, Pranayama, Mudra, Bandha by Swami Satyananda Saraswati
Asana Prana Yama Mudra Bandha is recognized internationally as one of the most systematic yoga manuals today. It is the main reference text used by Yoga teachers and students of Bihar Yoga/Satryananda.
You can find clear illustrations, step-by-step directions and details of Chakras.
It is the perfect guide for practitioners and teachers from beginners to advanced practices of Hatha Yoga system.
Mudra Vigyan by Swami Niranjanananda Saraswati
Learning about the philosophy and practice behind certain movements for both the philosophical and practical aspects of mudra. The book explains the origin of mudra, their effects on the body, mind and pranas, and the relevance of meditation. Also, it includes step-by-step, precautions and contraindications.
The Heart of Yoga: Developing a Personal Practice by T. K. V. Desikachar
This is the first yoga text to outline a step-by-step sequence for developing a complete practice according to the age-old principles of yoga. Desikachar discusses all the elements of yoga–poses and counterposes, conscious breathing, meditation, and philosophy–and shows how the yoga student may develop a practice tailored to his or her current state of health, age, occupation, and lifestyle.
Raja Yoga by Swami Vivekananda
Raja Yoga is a book by Swami Vivekananda about “Raja Yoga“, his interpretation of Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras adapted for a Western audience.
Yamas & Niyamas by Deborah Adele
The book provides a comprehensive guide to the first two limbs of yoga, which are known as Yamas and Niyamas. It delves into the principles and practices of these foundational aspects of yoga, offering insights, explanations, and practical tips to help readers deepen their understanding and enhance their practice. Whether you’re a seasoned yogi or just beginning your journey, this book is an invaluable resource for unlocking the transformative power of yoga.
The first five guidelines are referred to as the yamas, a Sanskrit word that translates to “restraints”.
The last five are referred to as the Niyamas, or observances, purity, contentment, self-discipline, self-study, and surrender.
Anatomy
Atlas of Human Anatomy by Frank H. Netter
For those learning anatomy, participating in dissection labs or sharing anatomy knowledge, the Netter Atlas of Human Anatomy illustrates the body region by region.
Yoga Anatomy by Leslie Kaminoff
Yoga Anatomy is a highly valuable resource for yoga practitioners, enthusiasts, and instructors all over the world. The third edition of Yoga Anatomy has been expanded and updated to provide you with a more comprehensive understanding of yoga, including the underlying structures and principles behind each movement.
Anatomy of Hatha Yoga by David Coulter
David Coulter has written a detailed analysis of over 100 yoga postures and practices and how they affect the systems of the body. The book covers topics such as breathing, relaxation, and meditation, and includes helpful diagrams, illustrations, and photos.
The Science of Flexibility by Michael Alter
You will learn about the principles and clinical aspects of flexibility, the factors limiting flexibility, as well as techniques to enhance flexibility throughout the body.
The Key Poses of Hatha Yoga by Ray Long
This book provides a scientific approach to understanding the practice and benefits of hatha yoga through 3D illustrations of major muscles, tendons, and ligaments.
The Key Muscles of Yoga: Scientific Keys, Volume I
This book provides detailed descriptions of the anatomical and physiological aspects of each pose. Volume I of the series explains how the key muscles of hatha yoga are utilized, including the agonist, antagonist, and synergist muscles.
Yoga Body by Judith Hanson Lasater
In her book “Yogabody”, Judith Hanson Lasater emphasizes the importance of understanding the human body to comprehend the dynamic movement of asana better. With almost four decades of experience as a yoga instructor and physical therapist, she focuses specifically on macro anatomy and kinesiology with Asana.
Your Body Your Yoga by Bernie Clark
The book “Your Body, Your Yoga” differs from any other yoga anatomy book. It not only explores the distinct anatomical structures of the body and how they affect each individual’s range of motion but also delves into the physiological reasons behind limitations in movement.
Ayurveda – The science of life
Ayurveda Simplified by Dr. Nisha Manikantan
Dr. Nisha Manikantan not only explains the fundamental principles of Ayurveda but also elaborates on topics that are not typically considered part of Ayurveda. Ayurveda is one of the oldest medical systems in the world, dating back almost 5,000 years to its first mention in the Vedas. The author also discusses the uniqueness of Ayurveda, with its all-natural, holistic approach to healing and promoting overall health.
Living Easy With Ayurveda By Dr. Janardhana V Hebbar
Learn about how to lead a healthy lifestyle based on the ancient Indian Medical Science – Ayurveda. Find out more about setting up a healthy lifestyle, understanding the basics of Tridosha, the benefits and side effects of massage, Panchakarma and related procedures, mental and physical exercises, how to adopt Pranayama in your routine, health advice based on seasons, diet advice, fasting tips, tastes and their qualities, abstinence, sexual health, sleep, and related aspects. This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the information you need to adopt a healthy lifestyle based on Ayurveda principles.
- setting up a healthy lifestyle
- basics of Tridosha
- massage Benefits and side effects
- Panchakarma and related procedures
- mental and physical exercises
- how to adopt Pranayama in your routine
- health advice based on seasons
- diet advice
- fasting tips,
- tastes and their qualities
- abstinence
- sexual health
- sleep and related aspects
- and more
Easy Ayurveda Home Remedies by Dr. Janardhana V Hebbar
You can discover a wide range of recipes and remedies by exploring different sources.
Tridosha Made Easy by Dr. Janardhana V Hebbar
Learn about the fundamental principles of Ayurveda and get to know the three Doshas – Pitta, Vata, and Kapha.
Spiritual & Growth
An Intimate Note to the Sincere Seeker by Sri Sri Ravishankar
Gurudev covers a wide range of topics in this book, including relationships, handling interpersonal interactions, learning to let go, and holding onto what is important. He also delves into topics such as recognizing personal patterns, the nature of love, karma, free will, ego, truth, and God. Despite the complexity of these topics, Gurudev manages to convey their essence in a way that is both deep and simple, and often humorous.
The Power of Now: A Guide to Spiritual Enlightenment by Eckhart Tolle
Eckhart Tolle’s book is a game-changer. It takes you to a higher perspective and helps you connect with your true self. The book talks about the eternal essence of your being that goes beyond life and death. Although the journey can be difficult, Tolle’s writing is easy to understand as he uses simple language and a question-and-answer format to guide the readers.
Siddhas: Masters of Nature by Palpandian
The book explores the teachings of the Immortal Masters, their divine abilities, and the esoteric nature of their wisdom. It reflects on how their ancient knowledge is still relevant in our modern world. The author shares his personal experiences with the hidden Masters of the oral lineage and anecdotes to explain yoga, tantra, alchemy, medicine, healing, and the occult aspects of this spiritual science in an easy-to-understand way.
Become a better Yoga teacher
Teaching Yoga: Essential Foundations and Techniques by Mark Stephens
“Teaching Yoga” is an invaluable guide for both novice and experienced yoga instructors, as well as for students who want to deepen their understanding of the practice. This book comprehensively covers all of the teacher training curriculum standards established by Yoga Alliance, the global leader in registering and accrediting yoga teachers and schools. Additionally, “Teaching Yoga” can serve as one of the many books for yoga teacher training.
The Art and Business of Teaching Yoga by Amy Ippoliti and Taro Smith
Every year, thousands of people who love yoga enroll in teacher training courses with the hope of passing on their knowledge to others. Many aspire to make yoga teaching their full-time career, but most training programs do not cover the business side of things, leaving graduates without the entrepreneurial skills they need to succeed. This book is a must-read for both new and experienced yoga teachers who want to maximize their impact and achieve their career goals. You will learn how to:
The sequencing bible by Eleanor Evrard
This book features a practice section that can help enhance your yoga sequencing skills. Nowadays, anyone can take yoga teacher training, and some courses don’t even offer adequate anatomy or sequencing training. However, what sets you apart as a yoga teacher is your unique teaching style. While anyone can play a class soundtrack, it’s your personality and approach that will attract people to your classes.
2100 Asanas by Daniel Lacerda
The book contains a comprehensive collection of 2,100 categorized yoga asanas, making it a must-have for all yogis at any level.
Yoga Sequencing: Designing Transformative Yoga Classes by Mark Stephens
With over 2,000 instructional photos and a comprehensive guide to the constituent elements of more than 150 yoga asanas, this book draws from both ancient yoga philosophy and contemporary insights into functional anatomy, biomechanics, and kinesiology. Perfect to learn the art of sequencing and creating powerful flows.
Hatha Yoga: The Complete Book
Hatha Yoga is a comprehensive training book that covers all aspects of hatha yoga. It is suitable for both yoga instructors and practitioners. The book starts with a detailed introduction to yoga, followed by an overview of the origins and philosophy of classical yoga. The practical section of the book covers 34 of the best-known yoga postures or asanas. Each asana is presented with its correct execution, symbolism, alignment, preparation, and guidance tips. This makes it easy for readers to understand and practice the postures accurately.
If you are feeling overwhelmed about starting your own yoga business, I recommended the Yoga Teacher Resource by Mado. She has a comprehensive guide to help you turn yourself into a business person!
Yoga Therapy
Yoga Therapy: Foundations, Methods, and Practices for Common Ailments by Mark Stephens
Stephens uses his insights to treat musculoskeletal injuries, promote a healthy reproductive system, and address mental, emotional, and behavioural difficulties. He utilizes evidence-based practices for healing in each health condition and incorporates yoga into integrative health practices. This makes yoga an integral part of his approach towards healing.
Overcoming Trauma through Yoga: Reclaiming Your Body by David Emerson
“Overcoming Trauma through Yoga” is a book designed for survivors, clinicians, and yoga instructors who are interested in the healing power of mind and body. It presents the concept of trauma-sensitive yoga, which is a modified approach to yoga that was developed in collaboration between yoga teachers and clinicians at the Trauma Center at Justice Resource Institute. This approach is led by yoga teacher David Emerson and medical doctor Bessel van der Kolk and aims to help individuals overcome trauma through a safe and supportive yoga practice.
Trauma-Focused ACT: A Practitioner’s Guide to Working with Mind, Body, and Emotion Using Acceptance and Commitment Therapy by Russ Harris
Learn how to help your clients with a compassion-based approach that focuses on healing the past, living in the present, and building a new future.
Kundalini Yoga
The Yoga of Siddha Boganathar by T.N Ganapathy
The book presents a biography of Boganathar based solely on his writings, along with introductory chapters on Siddha tradition and Kundalini Yoga.
If you are interested in energy healing and chakras, find my other resources of recommended books for yoga teacher training right here.
In Conclusion
You might be feeling overwhelmed, but if you read some of the descriptions you can find at least one book to start with. I discovered so many books by doing this research and I am excited to discover even more.
Our knowledge and mind are our greatest tools.
As a yoga teacher, we are here to offer guidance and knowledge to others, the only way to do so is by continuing to learn.
To learn more about what I do, follow my journey on Instagram.
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