Ready to dive headfirst into a yoga practice and craving books about yoga? Are you curious about yoga philosophy, history, myths or just hungry for more asanas? Whether you are a casual yoga enthusiast, or a dedicated practitioner, books can offer unique insights and cultural perspectives you may not have otherwise considered.

Here is a selection of yoga books I recommend to complement your practice and support your continued learning. Purchasing through the following affiliate links help support this small business, at no extra cost to you.

The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali:

This classic Sanskrit text is chiefly the main yoga philosophy Bible often referred. This translation by Sri Swami Satchidananda includes a comprehensive understanding of Sanskrit pronunciations for each of the sutras and shares the philosophy behind yoga for achieving overall peace.

Meditations from the Mat:

Meditations from the Mat has 365 days of reflections from the yoga mat interwoven with the teachings of the Yoga Sutras. A fabulous addition to your daily meditation or asana practice. Subsequently it may help you even better understand the philosophy of the Yoga Sutras. Take it day by day as scheduled or open randomly to a message meant for you on that particular day.

Light on Yoga:

The Iyengar tradition's reference guide to all yoga poses; includes photos of B.K.S. Iyengar demonstrating and explicitly detailing each pose. I especially love the references in the back with sequence recommendations of study and a glossary of various physical maladies and the recommended poses for treatment.

Myths of the Asanas:

Ever wondered about the myths connected to the names of yoga poses? This book is a delightful read and consolidates the myths of origin of the asanas. Read it straight through or skip throughout short stories as you feel compelled.

The Bhagavad Gita:

A pillar of yoga philosophy and therefore one of the oldest stories ever passed down. The Gita details a battle that we all face mentally and must overcome to know (and be at peace with) our true selves despite the ever present conflict of the world around us.

The practice of meditation frees one from all affliction. This is the path of yoga. Follow it with determination and sustained enthusiasm. -The Bhagavad Gita 6.23

I hope you find books about yoga in this list that help you on your journey! Please check back soon for more yoga book recommendations. If you have read any of these books or consequently end up doing so, please message me (email or socials) and share your thoughts about these books. What stuck with you? And what other books would you consider must-read in the further search for a well-rounded yoga education?

For more about beginning yoga, see my post Starting a Home Yoga Practice. Subsequently if you are looking for prop recommendations, see my 5 Yoga Props You Need list here.