Yogi Reading Recommendations

We asked the CorePower Yoga Team about their favorite books so that we could pass on their recommendations. From the physical to the spiritual, here are the books they think every yogi should have on their shelf:

You Are a Badass by Jen Sincero

“It motivates you. It's a self-help book so it builds you up and gives you insight on ways to do better and be better in ALL aspects of life. Definitely a book that leaves you feeling mindful and thinking ‘I am doing the best I can everyday, and I will continue to strive to do my best everyday, and that is so BADASS’.” – Emily Y, Studio Support Center (Colorado)

The Autobiography of a Yogi by Paramahansa Yogananda

“Incredible read about the life of an enlightened master in India at the beginning of the 20th century.” – Heather P, Chief Yoga Officer

I’ve Been Thinking…Reflections, Prayers and Meditations for a Meaningful Life by Maria Shriver

“In our age of hurry, worry, and electronic devices Maria Shriver offers nuggets of wisdom we can ALL use. From the Power of Silence to the Power of a Written Thank You, she gracefully offers a practical guide to navigate our challenging world.” – Lisa B, Studio Support Center (Colorado)

The Eight Human Talents: The Yogic Way to Restore Balance and Serenity Within You by Gurmukh Kaur Khalsa

“A clear, easy to understand explanation of chakras and how to create balance.” – Stephanie S (California)

The Bhagavad Gita by Vyasa

“It’s the meat and bones of much of yoga philosophy, presented in a digestible, understandable story format. It is great for inspiring thoughts and conversations about what it means to live yoga.” – Anna C, South Loop (Illinois)

The Science of Yoga by William J Broad

“It's a couple years old now, but Broad delves into the science behind why we love yoga and why it's so healing. That book drove me to teacher training and reading it a second time made me a stronger instructor. A lot of things we think about yoga aren't really scientifically backed up, but a lot of things are -- it's fascinating to find out which ones are which!” – Laura S, San Mateo (California)

Yogabody: Anatomy, Kinesiology, and Asana by Judith Hanson Lasater

“This book is a phenomenally in-depth look at anatomy and kinesiology in the context of the yoga practice for anyone who already knows a little bit about anatomy and yoga. Lasater looks at the muscles and the bones that support our postures and it's organized by area of the body so you can go in and study just the shoulders if that's what you're curious about today.” - Laura S, San Mateo (California)

The Great Work of Your Life by Stephen Cope

“Amazing anecdotal examples of recognizing and living your dharma.” – Abby P, Dupont Circle (DC)

Meditations from the Mat: Daily Reflections on the Path of Yoga by Rolf Gates & Katrina Kenison

“This book dives deeper into the 8-Limbed path, in an accessible and relateable way, that allows us to understand what it really means to be a modern day Yogi, with a Philosophical lineage that extends back thousands of years. Organized in a daily practice, you get quotes, stories, and words of wisdom, that aid in helping you place more intention on your attention.” – Lara G, Williamsburg (NYC)

Functional Anatomy of Yoga by David Keil

“This is a great anatomy book that breaks down pose by pose and shows the muscles and the bones. The reading is easy to get through and makes perfect sense! I had the chance to work with David Keil and it was one of the most eye-opening anatomy lectures I have attended.” – Brit Y, Ponce City Market (Georgia)

Have another book to add to the list? Let us know!