Myths of the Asanas: The Stories at the Heart of the Yoga Tradition

Myths of the Asanas explores the ancient stories behind yoga poses. While practitioners worldwide perform asanas by their Sanskrit names—such as hanumanasana, named for the deity Hanuman—most are unaware of the narratives that inspired them. Each pose corresponds to an ancient story about a god, sage, or sacred animal, similar to Aesop's fables or European folktales. This book collects and retells these myths for the first time. The stories within yoga's spiritual tradition can help students of all levels reach their full potential. Meditating on the tolerance of trees while in tree pose may cultivate greater tolerance. Learning how the disfigured sage Astavakra became a king's teacher can address anxieties about appearance and self-imposed limitations. Reflecting on Hanuman's devotion to Ram can provide spiritual strength and determination. The book includes more than sixty illustrations accompanying the stories, offering a new dimension to yoga practice and study.