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What Will Be The Distant Future of Yoga?


Would it be possible to transform our physical bodies into new and vastly more beautiful bodies of astral light?

Paramhansa Yogananda, Hamsa Yoga, Kundalini Yoga
Paramhansa Yogananda, Hamsa Yoga, and Kundalini Yoga


How far will human spiritual evolution go? Will the body become suffused and eventually consumed by the inner light of the soul? There are stories from India about yogis who have actually gone this far: to the point where spirit has transformed the body into itself, thereby gaining absolute freedom on all levels. Avatars never or rarely show off this level of advancement to a misunderstanding, sceptical world. Examples: the resurrected Jesus, Siddha Agastya, and Mahavatar Babaji. Can modern researchers discover newer and quicker ways to become an avatar or immortal being of light? What could we end up becoming eventually?

Will humanity ever transcend nature? We are presently bound by nature: we still cannot yet transcend the need to eat, sleep, reproduce, grow old and eventually die. Isn't there a better way? Are we forever stuck in this humiliating cycle of birth, copulation and death? Is it possible that in the distant future, a fantastic new race of human beings will have emerged from the utilization of incredibly advanced knowlege and wisdom accumulated over eons of time? Can some of us today, find a way to "get there" sooner? I feel that serious research and advancement in this field is my life's purpose.

LEFT IMAGE: What would the astral heavens look like? Some people after a near-death experience have claimed to have seen something like this: billions of astral planets in multiple colors spread across a spiritual sky and massive dark regions filled with tunnels to other realms.

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RIGHT IMAGE: "Eternal Samadhi" - Copyright 2000-2010 by R. A. Symonds. Oil on canvas painting image modified on Computer. "The body could become a revealing vessel of a supreme beauty and bliss, casting the beauty of the light of the spirit suffusing and radiating from it as a lamp reflects and diffuses the luminosity of its dwelling flame, carrying in itself the beautitude of the spirit, its joy of the seeing mind, its joy of life and spiritual consciousness and thrilled with a constant ecstasy." -- SRI AUROBINDO

The eternal power of the kundalini: The spiritual evolutionary process of human advancement depends on what degree the kundalini can replace the need or dependency on physical functions. Step by step, the kundalini can replace the need for sex with infinite, ongoing pleasure that rises into a glorious, everlasting love and devotion to God, which in turn illuminates the mind with an awesome sense of all-knowing omnipresence. If this process takes place faster than the cells can accomodate, mental/emotional disturbances and nerve damage can result. One must respect this energy by staying healthy through careful management of diet, supplements, sexual abstinence, and balanced lifestyle.




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Above image provided by artist Kendra Moshe (with her permission of course!) Her website is at: Diabetes Alternative


Eventually, as advancement in highly developed methods of yoga continues, astonishing and very desirable things can happen:

1) The kundalini energy transforms and divinizes the cells so that experience of God becomes much more real, more tangible.

2) In some cases, the kundalini can change the cellular process of metabolism so much so, that it replaces the need for physical food, enabling one to actually "live on light." I don't advise anyone to try this until one has been strongly guided by God, guides or guru to do so. But continuing spiritual evolution ultimately has to result in complete independence from physical nourishment.

3) The body can eventually become transformed into a more astral constituent, allowing far greater freedom of movement around the planet and experience of higher planes.

4) Many miraculous abilities and powers can manifest which are wonderful "road signs." However, the powers, along wtih bliss, samadhis and other high states, are not the ultimate goal, but are to be surrendered to God along with all attatchments so that the most wonderful thing of all can happen:

5) The Lila: or eternal play of love with the "Lord of Your Heart." Eventualy one becomes a "cocreator" with God, where one can share in the contuing divine process of creation. God becomes an eternal, loving, tangible partner in the form of one's beloved partner, guru, avatar, or whatever likenss of God most loved and adored.




Celibacy & Transmutation of Sexual Energy

Just as humankind has learned to master and control many natural forces in the world, a yogi (or yogini) is a very special (and unfortunately rare) individual who's inclination is to control and master the inner forces of nature, such as thoughts, emotions, cravings, and desires, especially the biological force of sexual energy. The yogi or yogini manages to successfully master his or her emotions and sexual energy not by force, but through purification of brain and body cells and then by absorption of vital prana. The transmutation of sex into inner peace, bliss, joy and love is the wonderful end result. One of the greatest mysteries of life is sex, sexual desire, and sexual energy. However, when sexual energy is lost in the process of reproductive activity, the spiritual life suffers.





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In association with Amazon.com
Reviews of Some of the Best Yoga and Philosophy Texts and CD's
Click on any title to purchase book.

Future Evolution of Man US Edition by Sri Aurobindo and P. B. Saint-Hilaire - Product Description - Sri Aurobindo introduces his theme of the evolution of consciousnessas the centerpiece of his vision of man's meaning and purpose on earth. This is the best introduction available to the philosophy of Sri Aurobindo.

Samadhi: The Superconsciousness of the Future by Mouni Sadhu - Product Description - This book can be strongly recommended to all those who want to find a true sense and fulfilment in their lives and to ultimately depart into the other world fearlessly and with peace. Highlights include a complete definition of Samadhi, techniques of inner strength, hostile forces on the path to achievement, the motive power of hope, and the ultimate attainment of Samadhi.

About the Author - Mouni Sadhu is the mystical name taken by Dymitr Sudoski, a noted Occultist and Mystic of the first half of the Twentieth Century. The word "mouni" means silent and "sadhu" refers to a wandering holy man. The author has tried many paths on the route to self-realization, and is uniquely qualified to relate the truths in this book. Steeped in the Hermetic schools which abounded at the turn of the 19th century, then embracing the teachings of Sri Ramana Maharshi and VicharaÑyet never forgetting his Catholic faithÑMouni Sadhu successfully advances our mental synthesis and leads us to the door of True Self. Mouni's writing was based not only on rigorous study of the texts of his day, but on personal experience and diligent practice.

Integral Yoga: Sri Aurobindo's Teaching & Method of Practice by Aurobindo - Product Description - One of the foremost Indian philosophers of the twentieth century, Sri Aurobindo was also a political activist, a mystic and a spiritual leader. Between 1927 and 1950, Sri Aurobindo remained in seclusion while perfecting a new kind of spiritual practice he called the Integral Yoga. During this period he gave detailed guidance to disciples and seekers, responding to thousands of inquiries. This correspondence constitutes a major body of work on the practice of yoga-sadhana. The present volume brings together a comprehensive selection of Sri Aurobindo's letters, organized by area of interest. An ideal introduction to his work and vision, it will also serve as an invaluable daily handbook for seekers of all paths - beginners and experienced practitioners alike. Glossary.

The Life Divine by Sri Aurobindo - Product Description - The Life Divine is a major philosophical work of Sri Aurobindo.Sri Aurobindo presents a theory of evolution,which will culminate in the transformation of the human being and the advent of a divine life upon earth. The Life Divine first appeared serially in the monthly review Arya.The first edition and the first Volume of this monumental work was published in 1939.New Editions in the shape of composite single volume appeared in several years and the present seventh edition has been checked against all editions published before 1950 and,when necessary,the author's manuscripts.

About the Author - Sri Aurobindo can best be described as an intellectual, linguist, freedom fighter, poet, and finally a great spiritual leader India has produced. The Aurobindo Ashram was established by him after pursuing various vocations. His writings are thought provoking.

The Mother - US Edition by Sri Aurobindo - Product Description - Important small work dealing with the action of the Divine powers in the world and practice of yoga of Sri Aurobindo. Revelatory, inspired writing, frequently called the "Matri Upanishad".

Bhagavad Gita and Its Message by Aurobindo - Product Description - The Bhagavad Gita, literally "The Song of God," is one of the most important spiritual and religious texts of the world, and is to Hindus what the Torah isto Jews, the Bible to Christians, and the Quran to Moslems. With text, translation, and Sri Aurobindo's commentary, this is probably the finest translation and commentary on the Bhagavad Gita that we have seen.

The Essential Aurobindo: Writings of Sri Aurobindo by Robert A. McDermott and Sri Aurobindo - Amazon.com Review - Before Gandhi, Aurobindo Ghose tested the British colony with his courageous writings on independence and his extraordinary energy. A series of mystical experiences, however, turned Ghose into Sri Aurobindo, India's greatest modern writer on spiritualism. The Essential Aurobindo is a collection of this yogi's most important writings. Raised with a British education from the age of 5 and schooled at Cambridge, Aurobindo was thoroughly versed in Western philosophy and strove to integrate the profound ideas of East and West. His "integral yoga" has been influential among writers like Ken Wilber in the American human-potential movement, in which the spiritual side of the human being is considered the most important element of cultivation. According to Aurobindo, after the origin of life from matter, and mind from life, there must be a further, conscious evolution to a spiritual plane. Included in The Essential Aurobindo are writings of the Mother, Aurobindo's successor, who established an ongoing and influential collective based on the thoughts of Aurobindo. Culled from the nearly 30 volumes of Aurobindo's lifetime work, the pieces in The Essential Aurobindo are truly essential to an understanding of this vital and unique thinker. --Brian Bruya

Product Description Sri Aurobindo stands out as one of the most profound and profoundly relevant of contemporary Asian spiritual masters speaking to the West. His vision transcends the distinctive strengths and weaknesses of India and the West, and his discipline brings the yogas of the Gita to the task of world transformation. His collaborator, The Mother, offers a blueprint for the utopian community Auroville and sage advice on the ideal of a spiritually based approach to education.

Robert McDermott's new afterword recounts the increased significance of Aurobindo's message for the West, particularly for America, since the book was first published in 1973.

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"Astral Aurora" - Oil over acrylic on canvas


The Hidden Forces Of life by Sri Aurobindo and The Mother - Product Description - On the hidden forces which, though men are almost totally unaware, act on men influencing their thoughts, feelings and actions, determining the course of events in life.

About the Author - An ardent devotee of Sri Aurobindo and the Mother A. S. Dalal has produced ten classic books, content of which is culled from the works of Sri Aurobindo and the Mother.

Synthesis of Yoga, US Edition by Sri Aurobindo - Product Description - "Truth of philosophy is of a merely theoretical value unless it can be lived, and we have therefore tried in The Synthesis of Yoga to arrive at a synthetical view of the principles and methods of the various lines of spiritual self-discipline and the way in which they can lead to an integral divine life in the human existence". Index.

Psychic Being (Soul: Its Nature, Mission, Evolution) by Sri Aurobindo and The Mother - Product Description - The present compilation is an attempt to bring together in one volume the manifold teachings pertaining to the psychic being which are to be found in the numerous works of Sri Aurobindo and The Mother. The selections deal with the nature of the psychic being, shedding the light of Sri Aurobindo and The Mother on the inner constitution of the human being and on various related questions such as the process of inner growth, the afterlife, and rebirth.

Powers Within by Sri Aurobindo and The Mother - Product Description - The book throws light on the nature of various inner powers which we already possess and use more or less unconsciously, as well as with latent powers within, which are as yet undeveloped. The book is of interest to the general reader as well as to the spiritual seeker.

A Greater Psychology: An Introduction to the Psychological Thought of Sri Aurobindo by Sri Aurobindo, Ken Wilber, and A. S. Dalal - Editorial Review - From Library Journal - "Consciousness is a reality inherent in existence," taught the Hindu mystic Aurobindo (1872-1950). He rejected Western psychology, which begins with individual conscious personalities viewing and reacting to phenomena external to themselves. Human minds participate in a continuum of Mind, of which the practice of "Integral Yoga" can make one aware. On the other hand, Aurobindo stressed conscious reality's involvement in all things material, and rejected claims that the material world is mere illusion. This dynamic Reality, which transcends we who are individual instances of it, this "greater psychology," is the topic of this systematically arranged anthology drawn from the 30 volumes of Aurobindo's writings. Dalal (Hidden Forces of Life, Growing Within), a clinical psychologist connected with Aurobindo's ashram, supplements the anthology with seven essays on the teacher's psychological thought and a useful, concise glossary. While Aurobindo's more popular texts (The Life Divine, Letters on Yoga) are widely available, this anthology offers a clearly organized introduction to his views and their relation to yoga practice. It offers a profound antidote to the individualistic psychology of the West.DSteve Young, Montclair State Univ., NJ - Copyright 2001 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Product Description - The best and most accessible sampling of the psychological writings of one of the most brilliant and influential modern teachers of Eastern thought.

"When it comes to a 'greater psychology'-one which includes body, mind, soul, and spirit-Aurobindo has much to teach us, as is clearly and beautifully documented in the book you now hold in your hands... This book is surely the finest overview of Aurobindo's psychological thought now available." -from the foreword by Ken Wilber

The Mind Of Light by Sri Aurobindo - Product Description - This is an excellent short introduction to the teaching and spiritual philosophy of Sri Aurobindo. Sri Aurobindo's teaching is founded on an evolution of consciousness as the hidden inner meaning and secret purpose of life on earth. In The Mind of Light, Sri Aurobindo gives us both the conditions for these changes, and the likely direction these changes will take. The book is a guide to the future evolution of consciousness and gives all those who aspire for something more luminous and harmonious a clear indication of the value and goal of their efforts. The book includes an enhanced annotated bibliography to guide the reader further into the the writings by and about Sri Aurobindo and the Integral Yoga.

Savitri: A Legend & A Symbol - New U.S. Edition by Sri Aurobindo - Product Description - In this epic spiritual poem, Sri Aurobindo reveals his vision of mankind's destiny within the universal evolution. He sets forth the optimistic view that life on earth has a purpose, and he places our travail within the context of this purpose: to participate in the evolution of consciousness that represents the secret thread behind life on Earth.

Sri Aurobindo or the Adventure of Consciousness by Satprem - Customer Review - Synthesis - The writings of Aurobindo are enormous. As much as one might wish to bathe in the wisdom of this extraordinary man, the task is too much for most of due to the massive tomes we would confront. However, Satprem has magnificently synthesised the life work of Aurobindo. Not only has he accomplished this task well, but the subtelty, the depth of vision that Satprem manages to convey, says to me that he is himself someone who has great insight, has great life experience and spiritual maturity. --By Tony Crisp "Cristolfo" (Swansea, UK)

The Upanishads, 1st US Edition by Aurobindo - Product Description - The Upanishads is a collection of Sri Aurobindo's final translations of and commemtaries on every Upanishad or other Vedantic text he worked on. Upanishads are the ancient treatises on spiritual truths as envisioned by the seers, sages and rishis of the civilization of India. Index.

Sri Aurobindo on the Tantra by Aurobindo and M.P. Pandit - Product Description - Frequently misunderstood, the tantric yoga system nevertheless is a powerful integrative practice seeking to bring spiritual powers into life in an effective and comprehensive way. The tantra develops the science of the chakras, the energy channels and the raising up of the kundalini shakti to bring about spiritual realization.

Looking from Within: A Seeker's Guide to Attitudes for Mastery and Inner Growth by A.S. Dalal - Product Description - A seeker's Guide to Attitudes for Mastery and Inner Growth. All of the many approaches for the attainment of mastery and inner growth involve the cultivation of certain attitudes which are related to inner or psychological states from which we look at and react to everything in life.This book deals with such basic attitudes in the light of Sri Aurobindo's Yoga.

Secret of the Veda, New U.S. Edition by Aurobindo - Product Description - Sri Aurobindo breaks new ground in interpreting the ancient Vedas. His deeperinsight into this came from his own spiritual practices for which he found vivid allegorical descriptions in the Vedas. The hidden meaning of the rig Veda isrevealed with numerous translations and commentary. Many have been perplexed bythe reverence accorded to the Vedas when they read past commentaries ortranslations. Sri Aurobindo was able to uncover the mystery of the doublemeanings, the inner psychological and yogic significance and practices and theconsistent, clear sense brought by this psychological view of the Vedic hymns.Finally, the true inner meaning of the Veda and its relevance to the seekingafter self-realization and enlightenment is revealed.

Sri Aurobindo on Himself by Aurobind - Product Description - This material has been compiled and presented in a systematic arrangement in part one of this volume. This has been done with the specific intention of providing authentic information about Sri Aurobindo's life so as to leave no room for anyone to make doubtful or misleading statements about him. This has become particularly necessary in view of the fact that many of the books and articles that have been published about him are, even when written by well-intentioned persons, often inaccurate in their facts and misguiding in their interpretations.

Search for the Soul in Everyday Living by The Mother - Product Description - Excellent introduction to the Mother's teachings, including chapters on "to be conscious", concentration and meditation, progress, obstacles, etc. Search For The Soul gives the seekers practical steps which can be taken HERE AND NOW. In addition, it points out the direction and the goal, clearly and in a language that each one can grasp. The Mother's teachings touch the soul and reveal its nature with an immediacy and clarity which are undeniable.

Our Many Selves: Practical Yogic Psychology by Aurobindo and The Mother - Product Description - Many of us face the difficulty of trying to change something in our nature, only to find that it is either difficult or virtually impossible. We struggle, try to suppress various actions, only to have these actions rebound on us and cause feelings of failure, shame, guilt or frustration. The key to solving this problem actually lies in a deeper understanding of the true nature of our psychological being. We are actually composed of various different "parts" or "planes" of action that combine together, interact with one another and impinge upon one another. This understanding allows us to differentiate between a mental idea, a force of will, an emotional movement, a vital energy, or a physical structure, and thereby more clearly understand the results of our psychological efforts and growth activities.

The Experience of Samadhi: An In-depth Exploration of Buddhist Meditation by Richard Shankman - Product Description - This book offers an in-depth look at the foundational aspect of Buddhist meditation known as samadhi, or concentration: the ability of the mind to remain calm and settled without distraction. In part one of the book, Richard Shankman looks at the range of views and understandings about the experience of samadhi and offers a comprehensive examination of it using teachings attributed to the Buddha as well as later commentaries. He compares the diverse descriptions and presentations of samadhi in order to present a broad understanding of it and its place in meditation practice. He examines different, often conflicting, views and how these various views are related.In part two, he presents a series of interviews with prominent contemporary Buddhist teachers, including Jack Kornfield, Sharon Salzberg, and Christina Feldman, that focus on the practical experience of samadhi. This section of the book brings the theoretical to life, offering a range of approaches to and applications of the different meditation techniques.

About the Author - Richard Shankman is a Buddhist meditation teacher with nearly four decades' experience in meditation practice and study. He is cofounder of the Sati Center for Buddhist Studies as well as the Community Partnership for Mindfulness in Education. He teaches throughout the country at Dharma centers and retreats, including Spirit Rock Meditation Center.

Samadhi: The Highest State of Wisdom: Yoga the Sacred Science by Swami Rama - Product Description - The contents of this book have been taken from Swami Rama's lecture courses onYoga Sutras. Swamiji states that Patanjali's Yoga Sutras are the basis ofancient psychology. The explanations in this book include many practicalpointers on how we can work with the mind in daily life, as well as study anddirect the mind when in quieter states of meditation.Swamiji's description of the totality of the mind, the functions of the mind,and the emotions, goes far beyond the concepts of modern psychology, andprovides insight into the intricacies of yoga psychology, making this aninvaluable edition from the therapeutic viewpoint as well as its practicality as a guide for living a healthy, balanced life.

Twenty-Five Doors to Meditation: A Handbook for Entering Samadhi by William Bodri and Lee Shu-Mei - Product Description - Twenty-Five Doors to Meditation is the first guide to provide extensive, comprehensive, and detailed information about a variety of meditation methods. Together, William Bodri and Lee Shu-Mei make sense of that seemingly conflicting information that exists today regarding the path to spiritual enlightenment. Eacch meditation technique is fully described as is the interrelationship between the different paths to enlightenment. The authors show how Buddhist techniques can be explained through Taoist principles, Christian techniques through Hindu principles, and so on. Each meditation technique is designed to help you attain samadhi, the crux of spiritual development. The Authors explore the scientific basis behind each technique, developmental stages of accomplishment, and each path's effectiveness for entering samadhi. Especially useful is an extensive list of recommended references for the further study of individual techniques. An indespensable book for individuals searching to find the meditation technique that is best for them.

Sakti Sadhana: Steps to Samadhi by Pandit Rajmani Tigunait - "It is a serious and scholarly work concerning an important but little-understood aspect of the teachings of India His book will make it easier for people to see Tantra as a path to God, rather that seeing it trivialized, as it has been Congratulations to Pandit Rajmani for making this worthwhile contribution available." -- Swami Kriyananda

"Pandit Tigunait's fresh translation of this extraordinarily inspiring classic places one of the great treasures of the East into Western hands. This text, like Yoga Sutras and Bhagavad Gita, merits the respectful attention of every student of yoga and meditation. In handle my own copy with reverence." -- Linda Johnsen author of The Living Goddess, Daughters of the Goddess and Meditation is Boring?

"Sakti: The Power of Tantra is not only useful to scholars but to anyone who wants a deeper view of Tantra and its unfoldment of the secrets of both psyche and cosmos. Such scholarship is badly needed and clears away many misconceptions about this important and beautiful system." -- David Frawley, author Ayurveda and the Mind, Tantric Yoga, and the Wisdom Goddesses, ect.

Product Description - The knowledge that enlightens the aspiring student into the mystery of life here and hereafter is the Tripura Rahasya. The text is one of the most significant scriptures in the tradition of tantra yoga. Its beauty lies in the fact that it expounds the lofty knowledge of inner truth while systematically offering practical instructions on sakti sadhana: the task of awakening the dormant fire within and leading it to higher awareness, or the highest chakra.

Samadhi: Personal Journeys to Spiritual Truth by Derek Biermann - This collection of interviews with 41 Indian samadhis (saints who can achieve the deepest level of meditation) works best at demonstrating the tremendous religious diversity of northern India. Biermann provides only a two-page preface before allowing his subjects free rein on questions about truth, faith, reality, love and samadhi. There are Muslims; Tibetan Buddhists from the community-in-exile at Dharamsala; Catholic and Protestant Christians; devotees of Shiva, Krishna, and various gurus; and representatives of some relatively new Hindu sects. Some are wanderers and mendicants, while others live in settled religious communities; some respond to questions of enlightenment by emphasizing technical practices such as mantras, breathing and yoga postures, while others speak of self-realization in terms of total surrender and humility. Most answer the question about truth by pointing to the validity of all religious paths ("Anything is truth," claims one Hindu woman), though the Muslim leaders interviewed strike a more exclusivist tone by emphasizing Allah's revelation to Muhammad and the Five Pillars of Islam. Several of the samadhis speak of the self-mortifications that help them to focus their minds on spiritual matters: two have worn wooden "chastity belts" for years, and others regularly experience prolonged periods of fasting. Biermann largely keeps himself out of the picture, offering refreshingly little editorial commentary. The book is enhanced by his sensitive black-and-white photographs of each subject (some of whom were reluctant to be caught on film). Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Product Description - A spiritual life is a creative process, a path of devotion, and a journey of self-discovery. Photographer Derek Biermann traveled to northern India to obtain what became a rare and privileged insight into the sacred lives of devotees following different spiritual paths. He asked each of these individuals the same questions: What is faith? What is truth? What is reality? What is love? What is samadhi? With their blessing, the answers to these questions were recorded and transcribed and are presented here as a unique insight into the process of obtaining samadhi--the direct experience of the conscious Self. Samadhi is described as the deepest level of meditation in which the mind becomes completely absorbed in the uninterrupted contemplation of reality and ceases to function other than as pure consciousness. Each response is accompanied by a superb portrait photograph, taken by Biermann, which documents a special exchange of spiritual perspectives. What intrinsically binds all of these people together is their faith. Their knowledge and wisdom guide us toward a further understanding of the depths of spirituality in India.

Samadhi: The Numinous And Cessative in Indo-tibetan Yoga (Suny Series in Religious Studies) by Stuart Ray Sarbacker - Product Description - Explores yoga and meditation in Eastern religions, incorporating psychological and social aspects of these practices. --This text refers to the Hardcover edition.

From the Back Cover - A historical and comparative study grounded in close readings of important works, this book explores the dynamics of the theory and practice of yoga in Hindu and Buddhist contexts. Author Stuart Ray Sarbacker explores the fascinating, contrasting perceptions that meditation leads to the attainment of divine, or numinous, power, and to complete escape from worldly existence, or cessation. Sarbacker demonstrates that these two dimensions of spiritual experience have affected the doctrine and cultural significance of yoga from its origins to its contemporary practice. He also integrates sociological and psychological perspectives on religious experience into a larger phenomenological model to address the multifaceted nature of religious experience. Speaking to a broad range of methodological and contextual issues, Samadhi provides numerous insights into the theory and practice of yoga that are relevant to both scholars of religious studies and practitioners of contemporary yoga and meditation traditions.

"Sarbacker tackles an immense swath of material and accompanying secondary literature and manages to do something genuinely creative with it all, that is, develop his own phenomenology of meditative experience via his central categories of the numinous and cessative." - Jeffrey J. Kripal, author of Roads of Excess, Palaces of Wisdom: Eroticism and Reflexivity in the Study of Mysticism --This text refers to the Hardcover edition.

Samadhi Kunda by Mark Griffin and PodPublishing - Product Description - Samadhi Kunda comes from a six hour teaching delivered to a small group of students from a master of meditation, Mark Griffin, who speaks from the state of Nirvikalpa Samadhi. Finally we have a westerner who is able to explain what Samadhi is about in terms that are easy for the western mind to understand. Mark Griffin is well-versed in the study of religions, spiritual traditions, metaphysics and physiology, and weaves this knowledge into his teachings. But of utmost importance is that he speaks with the authority of someone who has the direct experience, and is not simply repeating book knowledge.

This book outlines the four stages of samadhi: Laya, Savikalpa, Nirvikalpa and Sahaj, both from their historical perspective and from the perspective of how they differ in experience. The emphasis is placed not only in understanding what Samadhi is about intellectually, but in understanding the path of Realization and how you can tread this path and awaken. Samadhi is known as the true birth, the beginning of true life.

The book includes 17 color plates, illustrating these advanced concepts, as well as showing their physiological corollaries in the brain.

Kunda is a Sanskrit word meaning "wellspring, a source of continuous supply". In the Kunda Series, meditation master Mark Griffin explains and demonstrates the nature and experience of profound subjects dealing with advanced consciousness in the human form.

About the Author - Yogic Mystic, Mark Griffin, the founder of Hard Light Center of Awakening, was a student of Swami Muktananda of the Siddha Yoga Lineage who, in turn, was a disciple of Swami Nityananda. Griffin, who teaches in Malibu, CA, exists in states of Nirvikalpa Samadhi and identifies meditation as the core of his teaching.

He presents ancient knowledge of the various strands of Yoga dating back to the Vedas in contemporary terms, both mystical and scientific. As such, his work complements and agrees with many esoteric practices including Taoism, Tantra, Yoga, Shamanism and theoretical physics.

Mark Griffin is a Westerner who was born in the '50s in the Pacific Northwest. His childhood encompassed a usual American middle-class scenario, followed by tumultuous teen and early adult years spent in a very aggressive pursuit of higher knowledge and purpose. Mark's studies in art and music brought him to the San Francisco Bay area where he met his Guru, Swami Muktananda, in 1976. Aft

er six years of full-time immersion in the study of meditation, Mark encountered a milestone of extreme spiritual significance-entrance into an advanced state of consciousness known as Nirvakalpa Samadhi.

Very shortly thereafter, Muktananda died. Great teachers of the Kagyu tradition came to Mark's assistance, and he received continued instruction in maturing and stabilizing his abilities in meditation from Kalu Rinpoche and Chogyam Trungpa.

Mark Griffin founded the Hard Light center of Awakening in 1989, and continues to teach in Los Angeles, California.

The Summits of God-Life: Samadhi and Siddhi : Liberation, Enlightenment, Nirvana and Realisation by Sri Chinmov - Product Description - Not a philosophical or theoretical book but a vivid authoritative discussion of consciousness and the very advanced stages of spiritual practice. It includes detailed descriptions plus nearly 100 questions answered on the most abstruse spiritual concepts: infinity God-realization nirvana trance states (including Sahaja samadhi the highest state) liberation ananda (bliss) and more.

The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali: The Essential Yoga Texts for Spiritual Enlightenment (Sacred Wisdom) by Swami Vivekananda - Product Description - Composed by the famous Indian sage sometime between the first and third centuries CE, The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali sets forth the practical and philosophical foundations of Raja Yoga. These aphorisms clearly mark out the path to Self-Realization, and their influence has been profound throughout the millennia. They are still regularly used today by those interested in the Yogic approach to self-knowledge and are open to anyone of any religion. The Sutras are presented here in a free form translation, with an insightful running commentary that makes them easily understandable to the modern reader and yoga practitioner.

Raja-Yoga by Swami Vivekananda - Editorial Reviews - Product Description - His whole life and teaching inspired my generation . . . . he brought his great spirituality to bear upon his patriotism and thus his message was not confined to India only, but was for the whole world. I pay my homage to his memory. -- Jawaharlal Nehru

My homage and respect to the very revered memory of Swami Vivekananda . . . .after having gone through [his works], the love that I had for my country became a thousandfold. -- Mahatma Gandhi

The man [Vivekananda] is simply a wonder for oratorical power . . . the Swami is an honor to humanity. -- William James

This book brings together the main teachings of Swami Vivekananda in an easily accessible and readable form. I hope that in these days of uncertainty and confusion of mind Vivekananda's teachings may prove an enlightenment to many troubled souls. -- S. Radhakrishnan, author, philosopher, and former Vice-president of the Indian Republic

To convey Hindu meanings in English words is exceedingly difficult. The difficulty arises from the fact that the reader inevitably reads modern western, rather than ancient Hindu, meanings into the English words. The problem of any expositor or translator, therefore, is that of so wording the English translation of the Hindu doctrines that the Western philosophical or psychological meanings of the English words will not be introduced to the reader. -- F.S.C. Northrop, Yale University

[Vivekananda is] one of the very greatest historical figures that India has ever produced. When one sees the full range of his mind, one is astounded. -- Christopher Isherwood, author

Product Description - By Swami Vivekananda, Raja-Yoga, the path of meditation and control of the mind, gives a scientific treatment of Yoga philosophy describing methods of concentration, psychic development and the liberation of the soul from bondage of the body. Rja-Yoga also includes Swami Vivekananda's translation and commentary of the "Yoga Aphorisms of Patanjali." Raja-Yoga, along with Swami Vivekananda's Karma-Yoga, Bhakti-Yoga, and Jnna-Yoga, are considered classics and outstanding treatises on Hindu philosophy. The Swami's deep spiritual insight, fervid eloquence, and broad human sympathy shine forth in these works and offer inspiration to all spiritual seekers.

Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda 8 Vol. set by Swami Vivekananda - Editorial Reviews - Product Description - A huge collection of the books, lectures, letters, poetry of Swami Vivekananda in 8 volumes.Formerly sold for $55.00.

Special subsidized price. (Note that individual volumes in hardback and paperback are also available).

From the Author - Swami Vivekananda is regarded in India as a patriot and saint. He came to the United States and spoke at the World's Parliament of Religion in Chicago.

After the Parliament, the Swami traveled throughout the United States and England lecturing and giving the Western world his best teachings on Vedanta, teachings that seemed customized for the particular needs of the western mind. His first book on the yoga of meditation was assembled and published as Raja Yoga. Later came out a collection of his talks on the intellectually demanding approach Jnana Yoga, and finally, talks on the yoga approaches that suit most people Karma and Bhakti Yoga. A series of private talks to his most serious students at Thousand Islands Park in New York was later published as Inspired Talks.

After four years, Vivekananda finally returned to India for a hero's welcome. Here he was able to put many of his ideas in practice such as service to the poor, education, hospitals, and relief in times of natural disaster. A major day came in 1899 when the permanent headquarters of his brother monks, called the Ramakrishna Order of India, was consecrated. --This text refers to the Hardcover edition.

King of Samadhi: Commentaries on the Samadhi Raja Sutra and the Song of Lodrš Thaye by Khenchen Rinpoche, Chokyi Rinpoche, and Erik Kunsang - Editorial Review - "Khenchen Thrangu Rinpoche is a sublime being whose eminent character never departs from loving kindness and compassion. He is a great Buddhist teacher possessing the three qualities of learning, pure conduct and noble-mindedness. He is also an expert in exposition, debate and composition. Given in the style of pith instructions, these profound lectures contain the key points of the Samadhi Raja Sutra, the words of our compassionate Buddha. This is accompanied by an explanation by the lord of the Dharma, Jamgon Lodro Thaye's song of experience in Mahamudra. It is therefore my request that all Dharma practitioners take the meaning of these extremely precious teachings to heart and make it a personal experience through correct practice. Please treasure this Dharma book with great care and appreciation." - Chokyi Nyima Rinpoche

Product Description - King of Samadhi contains two commentaries given by His Eminence Khenchen Thrangu Rinpoche in January 1993, as part of his yearly Namo Buddha Seminar at his monastery in Boudhanath, Nepal. The first commentary is on the King of Samadhi Sutra, a famous sutra spoken by the Buddha. The second is on the Song of Lodro Thaye, written by the great 19th-century master Jamgon Kongtrul the First, also known as Lodro Thaye.

About the Author - Khenchen Thrangu Rinpoche, a realized teacher of Tibetan Buddhism's Kagyu lineage, has been the abbot of Rumtek monastery in Sikkim and currently directs numerous monasteries and retreat centers. On his frequent world tours he teaches all levels of Buddhist philosophy and practice.

The Samadhi : Star of Infinity by Bal Natu - Product Description - In a deeply heartfelt and thought-provoking meditation on the unique significance of Meher Baba's Samadhi (tomb-shrine) in India, Bal Natu shares his personal reflections and convictions on its special role in the advent of this great spiritual master.

Tracing the history of the Samadhi - the chronology of how Meher Baba established the resting place for his physical form - Bal also reveals the evolution over many years of his own deepening relationship to "the Divine Satellite" (as Bal calls Baba's tomb).

About the Author - Bal Natu is a lifelong follower of Avatar Meher Baba. He presently resides in Meherazad, India, the home of his master, Meher Baba and his close disciples.

Excerpt. © Reprinted by permission. All rights reserved. - "Meher Baba once conveyed to His close ones, "This [body] is only an overcoat that I am wearing; this is not the real Me." That "Real Me" of the Avatar's presence is now manifesting itself in innumberable ways through the Samadhi. There the atmosphere is permeated with His divine presence, awakening hearts to His glorious love. To enter the Samadhi is to bathe in a clear pool of purity. It not only cleanses the impurities of mind and heart, but perfumes one's entire being with His illuminating presence. The Samadhi is where Meher Baba responds to His lovers' longing for the Avatar's physical company. Whenever one has the rare fortune to visit there, either physically or in one's thoughts, it performs a wondrous sanctification of one's mind and heart. That little room holds the key that unlocks any human heart which sincerely calls on Him, the Eternal Beloved."

The Holy Science - This extraordinary treatise explores parallel passages from the Bible and the Hindu scriptures to reveal the essential unity of all religions. Swami Sri Yukteswar is renowned as the revered guru of the great pioneer of yoga in the West, Paramahansa Yogananda (author of Autobiography of a Yogi). In this remarkable work - composed in the year 1894 at the request of the great Indian sage, Mahavatar Babaji - Sri Yukteswar outlines the universal path that every human being must travel to enlightenment. He also explains the vast recurring cycles of history - the yugas that mark the upward ascent of human consciousness over millenniums - amid the ever-changing panorama of turbulent world events.

Autobiography of a Yogi: by Paramahansa Yogananda (with CD) - Editorial Review - Fabulous stories from his life keep the reader inspired, informed, and thoroughly entertained from beginning to end. --Yoga Journal

This book is a must-read for the budding yogi, the spiritual veteran looking for a deeper understanding, and everyone in between... --Yogi Times

Product Description - Autobiography of a Yogi is at once a beautifully written account of an exceptional life and a profound introduction to the ancient science of Yoga and its time-honored tradition of meditation. This acclaimed autobiography presents a fascinating portrait of one of the great spiritual figures of our time. With engaging candor, eloquence, and wit, Paramahansa Yogananda tells the inspiring chronicle of his life: the experiences of his remarkable childhood, encounter with many saints and sages during his youthful search throughout India for an illumined teacher, ten years of training in the hermitage of a revered yoga master, and the thirty years that he lived and taught in America. Also recorded here are his meetings with Mahatma Gandhi, Rabindranath Tagore, Luther Burbank, the Catholic stigmatist Therese Neumann, and other celebrated spiritual personalities of East and West. The author clearly explains the subtle but definite laws behind both the ordinary events of everyday life and the extraordinary events commonly termed miracles. His absorbing life story becomes the background for a penetrating and unforgettable look at the ultimate mysteries of human existence. Selected as "One of the 100 Best Spiritual Books of the Twentieth Century," Autobiography of a Yogi has been translated into 20 languages, and is regarded worldwide as a classic of religious literature. Several million copies have been sold, and it continues to appear on best-seller lists after more than sixty consecutive years in print. Profoundly inspiring, it is at the same time vastly entertaining, warmly humorous and filled with extraordinary personages. Self-Realization Fellowship's editions, and none others, include extensive material added by the author after the first edition was published, including a final chapter on the closing years of his life.

A bonus audio CD is included, featuring the first four chapters of the full audio-book (also available from Self-Realization Fellowship), as narrated by Academy Award-winning actor Sir Ben Kingsley.

Autobiography of a Yogi (Reprint of Original 1946 Edition) by Paramhansa Yogananda - Editorial Reviews - From Publishers Weekly - The original text of Yogananda's classic introduction to Eastern mysticism. Copyright 1993 Reed Business Information, Inc.

From Library Journal - After half a century in print, this widely acclaimed autobiography is now available in a superb audio translation narrated by Academy AwardR-winning actor Ben Kingsley. The work is enduringly popular because it introduces millions of readers to Eastern spiritual thought. Yogananda's masterly storytelling epitomizes the Indian oral tradition with its wit, charm, and compassionate wisdom. The yogi begins by showing how his childhood experiences in turn-of-the-century India produced a spiritual youth in search of an enlightened teacher, continues with an account of his years of training in the hermitage of a revered master, and concludes with the highlights of a period, beginning in 1920, during which he lived and taught in America. Yogananda sensitively interprets not only his own spiritual evolution but also his relationship with elements of the West's spiritual tradition, such as the story of Adam and Eve, providing a penetrating look at the ultimate mysteries of human existence. Bibliographical footnotes, which would have interrupted Kingsley's magnificent narration, are thoughtfully included in an accompanying booklet. This extraordinary work will greatly enrich any library. - James Dudley, Copiague, N.Y. - Copyright 1997 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to the Audio Cassette edition.

Man's Eternal Quest: Collected Talks and Essays - Volume 1 - For all who have ever sought to understand the enigmas of life, for those who have held within their hearts an uncertain hope about the reality of God, and for seekers who have already turned toward the Supreme in their quest, this anthology of talks by the author of Autobiography of a Yogi offers illuminating insights and encouragement. In its pagese, Paramahansa Yogananda explores little-known and rarely explained aspects of such subjects as meditation, life after death, health and healing, the unlimited powers of the human mind, the equality of man and woman, and the interrelatedness of all life.

The Divine Romance - Collected Talks and Essays. Volume 2 - The Divine Romance includes over fifty talks and essays by Paramahansa Yogananda. Readers will find these talks alive with the unique blend of all-embracing wisdom, encouragement, and love for humanity that have made the author one of our era's most trusted guides to the spiritual life. The second book in a trilogy, which includes, Man's Eternal Quest and Journey to Self-realization - each of which are packed with information covering a vast range of spiritual topics - The Divine Romance speaks to the deepest needs of the human soul. The great master reveals how we can meet the daily challenges to our physical, psychological, emotional, and spiritual well-being - by awakening our divine nature, the neglected reality at the core of our being.

Yogananda said, "The greatest romance you can have is the romance with God....He is the Lover and our souls are the beloved, and when the soul meets the greatest Lover of the universe, then the eternal romance begins. The love that you have been seeking for incarnations through all human loves is at last yours."

Topics include: How to Work Without Fatigue; Where are our Departed Loved Ones?; Controlling Your Destiny; Why Evil is a Part of God's Creation; How to cultivate Divine Love.

About the Author: Born in India on January 5, 1893, Paramahansa Yogananda devoted his life to helping people of all races and creeds to realize and express more fully in their lives the true beauty, nobility, and divinity of the human spirit. After graduating from Calcutta University in 1915, Yogananda took formal vows as a monk of India's venerable monastic Swami Order. Two years later, he began his life's work with the founding of a how-to-live school since grown to twenty-one educational institutions throughout India where traditional academic subjects were offered together with yoga training and instruction in spiritual ideals. In 1920, he was invited to serve as India's delegate to an International Congress of Religious Liberals in Boston. His address to the Congress and subsequent lectures on the East Coast were enthusiastically received, and in 1924 he embarked on a cross-continental speaking tour. Over the next three decades, Paramahansa Yogananda contributed in far-reaching ways to a greater awareness and appreciation in the West of the spiritual wisdom of the East. In Los Angeles, he established an international headquarters for Self-Realization Fellowship, the nonsectarian religious society he had founded in 1920. Through his writings, extensive lecture tours, and the creation of Self-Realization Fellowship temples and meditation centers, he introduced hundreds of thousands of truth-seekers to the ancient science and philosophy of Yoga and its universally applicable methods of meditation. Today, the spiritual and humanitarian work begun by Paramahansa Yogananda continues under the direction of Sri Daya Mata, one of his earliest and closest disciples and president of Self-Realization Fellowship/Yogoda Satsanga Society of India since 1955. In addition to publishing his writings, lectures and informal talks (including a comprehensive series of Self-Realization Fellowship Lessons for home study), the society also oversees temples, retreats, and centers around the world.

Wings to Freedom by Yogiraj, Gurunath Siddhanath - Product Description - From the stillness of the Himalayan peaks, Yogiraj brings to the thirsty and distressed, a message of healing and peace. Follow the footsteps of a Yogi and experience through his words, as he walks his talk in the jungles, temples, ashrams and hidden [to the uninitiated] places of India. Enrich your life with the secret oral traditions revealed for the first time - mysteries of life, immortality, and Self-Realization. Not since the "Autobiography of a Yogi," written over 60 years ago, has a Master brought the message of Mahavatar Babaji to the world for a new millenium. The author details his remarkable experiences with Babaji, insights on Kriya Yoga, healing, the spiritual hierarchy, supra-conscious states of yoga, meetings with great beings, and his mission. The 3rd edition softcover.

Babaji and the 18 Siddha Kriya Yoga Tradition by Marshall Govindan - Editorial Reviews - "An excellent contribution to the little known science of immortality." -- C. Srinivasan, Ph.D. Professor Emeritus of Botany, Annamalai University, India

"It is the most accurate and comprehensive exposition of the ancient Kriya Yoga tradition and method published in English to date" -- E. Ayyappa, a long time disciple of Babaji

Product Description - The first authoritative biography of Babaji, the immortal master made famous by Yogananda's Autobiography of a Yogi, an all-time best-seller. Babaji lives today near Badrinath, in the upper Himalayan mountains. His body has not aged since the age of sixteen, when centuries ago he attained the supreme state of enlightenment and divine transformation. This followed his initiation into scientific art of Kriya Yoga by two deathless masters, the siddhas Agastyar and Boganathar, who belonged to the "18 Siddha Tradition", famous among the Tamil speaking people of southern India. This rare account, by a long time disciple, reveals their little known stories, ancient culture and present mission, as well as how their Kriya Yoga can be used to bring about the integration of the material and spiritual dimensions of life. Clear explanations of the psychophysiological effects of Kriya Yoga and guidelines for its practice are given. It includes verses from the Siddhas' writings with commentary. A book which will inspire you.

About the Author - Marshall Govindan has practised Kriya Yoga intensively as a disciple of Babaji since 1969. He studied and practised Kriya Yoga in India for nearly four years with Yogi S.A.A. Ramaiah, a direct disciple of Babaji, assisting him in the establishment and development of 23 Kriya Yoga centers around the world over two decades. He practised Babaji's Kriya yoga an average of 8 hours per day for 18 years. After fulfilling certain rigorous conditions, he was asked by Babaji on Christmas day, 1988, to go and teach Kriya yoga to others under his guidance and inspiration. In 1990 he was married for the first time, to Gaetane Annai Ouellet of Quebec in a traditional ceremony at the Chidambaram Shiva temple in South India. In 1991 he authored the bestselling book Babaji and the 18 Siddha Kriya Yoga Tradition. In 1992, he and his wife, Annai founded Babaji's Kriya Yoga Ashram on a beautiful mountain top, 40 acre estate. It is located at 196 Mountain Road, St Etienne de Bolton, Quebec, Canada J0E 1P0., near Montreal. They organize initiations and retreats here year round as well as summer camps which host a variety of teachers. In 1993 he edited and published the first english translation of Thirumandiram: A Classic of Yoga and Tantra by Siddha Thirumoolar. At the end of 1994 he retired after 25 years of work in some of North America's largest corporations, where he integrated the practise of Kriya Yoga with a life of dedicated service as an economist and later as a leading professional and author in the field of computer systems control and auditing.

Yoga Nidra Meditation CD: Extreme Relaxation of Conscious Deep Sleep by Swami Jnaneshvara Bharati (Audio CD) - Editorial Reviews - Product Description - This meditation is an authentic rendering of Yoga Nidra as taught in the Himalayas by the masters of Yoga, Vedanta and Tantra. While it is an advanced meditation practice, anyone can start the practice while watching it deepen over time.

Yoga Nidra literally means "Yogic Sleep." In this deep meditation you train your attention to leave the chatter of the Waking state of mind, go past the fantasy of the Dreaming state, and consciously, intentionally enter the stillness of the Deep Sleep state, yet paradoxically remain awake and in deep meditation. For thousands of years the Yogis have used Yoga Nidra to master the art of sleep, to balance the subtle energies, and to experience greater depths of meditation.

The state of conscious Deep Sleep or Yoga Nidra is underneath, behind, or subtler than meditations at either the Waking or Dreaming levels. This subtle state is called "Prajna," which means "supreme knowing." "Pra" means "supreme," and "jna" means "knowing." The conscious experience of this state is a doorway to higher, formless knowing that has been called the infinite library of wisdom and the teacher within.

The depth of authentic Yoga Nidra comes from inner awareness of the levels of your own self, including your body, breath, and the subtler mind, rather than diverting attention through music or inner fantasies (as pleasant as these may be). This inner exploring through self-awareness is a more refined form of meditation that leads you deeper into the stillness and silence of your own being, while remaining fully awake and aware. The Yoga Nidra methods bring you to a place of awareness where you are able to completely let go of any words, thoughts, images, impressions, or pictures in the mind. You are guided to allow your mind to "empty, empty, empty" though you remain fully awake and clear of mind.

The practices on this CD will gently train your ability to direct your own attention, which is the primary skill in the art of meditation. You will find that you are gradually able to use these methods on your own, without the CD, and the benefits will be with you not only during your practice time, but also during the activities of daily life.

The voice will systematically guide you to explore your physical body, then move through 61 specific points within the body, and then practice ascending breath awareness along the body and spine. Your attention will be brought to the space between the eyebrows, then to the throat, and finally to the heart center, where you will go deep into stillness and silence, beyond the activities of the mind.

The Yoga Nidra CD has five tracks. The first track is an introduction (8:02 minutes), describing the state of Yoga Nidra and the practices on the CD. The next four tracks move through four sequential practices that are listened to together, so as to form a complete practice of 57:24 minutes (CD is 65:36 minutes in total). These four tracks can also be listened to individually, as complete practices unto themselves, which allows you to have the benefits of practice when less time is available.

About the Author - Swami Jnaneshvara is passionate about traditional Yoga meditation as a most profound path to the direct experience of the highest spiritual awakening. In addition to practicing meditation from childhood, from 1994 until the present he has practiced and taught meditation from time to time in Rishikesh, India, including one period of more than five years when he was in continuous residence. He is a student and teacher of the ancient tradition of the Himalayan meditation masters, and received initiation as a monk by Swami Rama of the Himalayas. He continues to teach in both India and USA, and presently lives in Florida. He was born in USA in 1948 and his education includes a BS in Management from Florida State University and an MA in Consciousness, with emphasis in Transpersonal Psychology from John F. Kennedy University, in California. He is devoted to producing the highest quality of guided practices.

Meditations from the Mat: Daily Reflections on the Path of Yoga by Rolf Gates and Katrina Kenison - Editorial Reviews - From Booklist - This is a wonderful book of instructive and encouraging daily meditations centered on the practice of yoga. Gates synthesizes his experiences as a yoga student and teacher, former army ranger, and recovering alcoholic, and explores the practice of yoga in a fresh, relevant manner perfect for American readers. Each day's reflection begins with a thought-provoking quote and then explores one intriguing aspect of yoga philosophy. Gates weaves stories of his own remarkable healing and growth with the yoga sutras of Patanjali, and provides illuminating and moving explanations of how yoga teachings apply to real-life situations. With the help of accomplished writer Kenison, Gates succeeds in taking readers beyond the mat, and showing them how yoga works as a tool for transformation. Candid and engaging, Gates will inspire both readers currently practicing yoga and those who are thinking about it. Jane Tuma Copyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved

Reviews - "A must for yoga teachers and students alike, Meditations from the Mat brings yoga theory into our daily lives." -- Baron Baptiste, author of Journey Into Power

"Highly recommendedÉexcellent gift to oneself. I keep one copy on my desk at work and one near my yoga mat." -- Deirdre Donahue, USA Today

"This book reflects the deepening and expansive effect of a dedicated yoga practice." -- Sifhar Jonathan Foust, President, Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health

"Utterly different. . . . For people who are unhappy in their lives and are looking for a healthy way to find peace." -- USA Today

"Utterly different. . . . This is a wonderful (and inexpensive) book for people who are unhappy in their lives and are looking for a healthy way to find peace and a sense of coming home, day by day." --USA Today

?More than just cultivating more vibrant health, yoga is an evolutionary journey. This book reflects the deepening and expansive effect of a dedicated yoga practice.? --Sifhar Jonathan Foust, President, Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health

"Rolf Gates is an inspiring teacher who has written an inspiring book. A must for yoga teachers and students alike, Meditations from the Mat brings yoga theory into the 21st century and into our daily lives." --Baron Baptiste, author of Journey Into Power

"In this free-spirited journey to the heart of yoga, Rolf guides us, through daily meditations, to finding the appropriate balance between standing firm and surrendering to flow -- the key to peace of mind." --Beryl Bender Birch, author of Power Yoga and Beyond Power Yoga

Yoga, Tantra and Meditation in Daily Life by Swami Janakananda Saraswati - Product Description - "Yoga is an old Sanskrit word meaning union or oneness..." One of the very best and comprehensive instructional yoga and meditation books ever.

Basic Yoga Meditation CD: 3, 7, 11, and 30 Minute Guided Practices by Swami Jnaneshvara Bharati (Audio CD) - Product Description - These four traditional guided Yoga meditation practices of 3, 7, 11, and 30 minutes are for those who want to gain a solid foundation practice in traditional meditation that will lead to advanced meditation. By repeatedly following these basic practices, meditation will naturally deepen, gradually leading to the direct experience of the pure consciousness and joy, which is beyond the mind.

These are authentic renderings of meditation as taught in the Himalayas by the masters of traditional Yoga meditation. The methods are consistent with authentic meditation teachings of the most respected instruction manuals, including the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali and Vedanta meditation of the Upanishads. These guided meditations integrate both mindfulness and concentration meditation, and lead one towards kundalini awakening and the enlightened state of samadhi through the path of meditation.

Each of the four meditations follows the same systematic approach, although they are of different lengths to match your time available and your personal inclination. They each guide your attention inward through the levels of your own body, breath, and mind, allowing your awareness to come to rest in a very relaxed state of deep stillness and silence. This systematic approach of self-awareness is one of the most direct and effective forms of meditation.

Simply decide how long you would like to spend with your meditation, and choose the 3, 7, 11, or 30 minute guided practice. You will discover for yourself that calmness, serenity, and peace of mind can be experienced in even a few minutes.

Following the custom of the ancient sages, the depth of Yoga meditation comes from inner awareness of the levels of your own self, rather than by diverting attention through music, as pleasant as music can be. Therefore, there is intentionally no music in these recordings. This inner exploring through self-awareness is a more refined form of meditation that leads you deeper into the stillness and silence of your own being.

Gently focus your attention on each of the aspects of yourself as the voice guides you, including awareness of your body, then your breath, then your mind, and then beyond. Allow all of the other thoughts, emotions, sensations, images, or impressions to come. It is the nature of the mind for thoughts to come. It is also natural for them to go. As your attention moves systematically inward, you gradually learn to remain undisturbed, unaffected, and uninvolved by the streams of thoughts as they naturally rise and fall. Even a few minutes of stillness and silence, every day, is a very nice gift to give your self.

Track 1: Introduction
Track 2: 3-Minute Meditation
Track 3: 7-Minute Meditation
Track 4: 11-Minute Meditation
Track5: 30-Minute Meditation
Total time (59:42)

About the Author - Swami Jnaneshvara is passionate about traditional Yoga meditation as a most profound path to the direct experience of the highest spiritual awakening. In addition to practicing meditation from childhood, from 1994 until the present he has practiced and taught meditation from time to time in Rishikesh, India, including one period of more than five years when he was in continuous residence. He is a student and teacher of the ancient tradition of the Himalayan meditation masters, and received initiation as a monk by Swami Rama of the Himalayas. He continues to teach in both India and USA, and presently lives in Florida. He was born in USA in 1948 and his education includes a BS in Management from Florida State University and an MA in Consciousness, with emphasis in Transpersonal Psychology from John F. Kennedy University, in California. He is devoted to producing the highest quality of guided practices.

Guiding Yoga's Light: Lessons for Yoga Teachers by Nancy Gerstein - Editorial Reviews - Product Description - Guiding Yoga's Light: Lessons for Yoga Teachers moves beyond the anatomical aspects of asanas to help instructors present the deeper concepts of yogic philosophy to their students and offer insight into the integration of yogic teachings into everyday life.

Now in an updated, expanded edition, Guiding Yoga's Light presents 74 easy-to-follow, succinct lesson plans offering instruction in hatha yoga, including asana, pranayama, the yamas and niyamas, the chakras, creating mindfulness, and understanding emotions. The text also includes three new, teacher-requested chapters: Salutations in Motion, Lessons of the Heart Center, and Relaxation. For convenient reference, teachers and students can also refer to the vocabulary of Sanskrit pronunciations included in the glossary.

Lesson plans progress from basic yogic concepts important for beginning students to more advanced material. Each lesson plan offers a written script for use in class. For beginning teachers, these scripts provide a helpful structure and set the stage for mindful yoga instruction. More advanced teachers may use these lessons and scripts as a creative departure point for expanding on the wellness effects of asana or focusing the day's practice. For ease of planning and organization, each lesson follows a six-part outline:

* The intention provides the focus for the day's yoga class.
* Approximate time offers the length of each lesson script to help yoga teachers manage class time.
* The lesson embodies the essence of the day's teaching, which is expanded on in the following three sections.
* Asanas for deepening illustrate and incoporate the lesson through body stretch, movement, and sensation.
* Practice off the mat helps students integrate the lesson into their daily lives by providing an assignment, a reminder, or a discussion topic.
* To end each lesson, wise words offer selected quotes, suggestions, or proverbs to remind students of the lesson as they engage in their practice outside the class.

The text takes beginning students and teachers on a journey through the various aspects of yoga to understand the foundations of hatha practice. Beginning with basics of breathing, Guiding Yoga's Light progresses to the physical and spiritual philosophy of the asanas and salutations and ends with lessons to bring clarity, calmness, and relaxation into daily life.

Guiding Yoga's Light: Lessons for Yoga Teachers interprets yoga's 5,000-year-old philosophy in an effort to inspire, delight, and empower yoga students to enrich their physical, emotional, and spiritual lives both on and off the mat. With each lesson, Guiding Yoga's Light demonstrates how the strength, balance, and stretching of the physical practice can inspire a healthy, complete, and joyous existence.

Review - "Nancy's book is helpful for yoga teachers in planning their classes and for practitioners who want to have a class experience. Each lesson is complete with a focus, breathing techniques, selected asanas, yoga philosophy, words of wisdom, and other elements to provide a total yoga experience. I used it in my classes and my students loved it!" -- Sharon Steffensen

AM/PM Yoga Meditations by Gael Chiarella (Audio CD) - Editorial Reviews - Product Description - These guided Yoga Meditations can open up a whole new dimension of your life. They are easy to follow and bring positive results from the very beginning. By tuning into your breath, heart and mind you can find deep relaxation, intuitive guidance, and a calm strength to face your days with grace and balance. Gael Chiarella is the voice and guide of these Yoga Meditations. Gael is the founder of Yokibics named one of the nation's Top 10 Mindbody Fitness Programs by American Health magazine. Gael's voice is both soothing and engaging as she takes you on a tour of your inner self to access the enormous potential within you. AM YOGA MEDITATIONS will help clear your mind so you can consciously and purposefully create an extraordinary and energetic day. PM YOGA MEDITATIONS will help ease you into a deeply relaxed, meditative state so you can let go of the day's stress and prepare for a night of restful and rejuvenating sleep.

About the Author - Gael Chiarella is the voice and guide of these Yoga Meditations. Gael is the founder of Yokibics named one of the nation's Top 10 Mindbody Fitness Programs by American Health magazine. Gael's voice is both soothing and engaging as she takes you on a tour of your inner self to access the enormous potential within you.

365 Yoga by Julie Rappaport - Editorial Reviews - From Publishers Weekly - One of the goals of practicing yoga is finding a balance between action and reflection. Yogis attempting to achieve that objective will find a great helper in Rappaport's chubby little book of reflections, wherein the yoga teacher and writer shares ancient and modern texts that speak to the philosophy of yoga. The diverse collection includes thoughts from well-known sources such as the Bhagavad Gita; philosophers like Goethe; famous yogis including Sri Swami Satchidananda; and inspiring heroes from Mother Teresa to Gandhi to Edith Wharton. Rappaport also writes her own meditations on yoga, which are often matter-of-fact and serve as a welcome change from the sometimes complex and theoretical selections. Readers may opt to read one meditation a day, before or after practicing yoga, and Rappaport's helpful glossary will assist them in understanding such Sanskrit terms as anandatandava (eternal bliss) and mukti (freedom or release from suffering). Copyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Product Description - An elegant and enlightening companion book for yoga practitioners.

This beautifully designed book invites readers to dis-cover the rich tradition of yoga through single pieces of wisdom-one for each day of the year. Filled with thought-provoking and inspiring quotations from the greatest yogic texts and yoga teachers throughout history, as well as invaluable instruction on specific poses, it is an essential resource and companion for anyone who practices yoga.

A celebration of the powerful ancient practice that is yoga, this book guides readers-day by day-through centuries of yogic philosophy. 365 Yoga infuses yoga practice with a deeper understanding of the intricate connection of mind, body, and spirit.

Kundalini Yoga Meditation: Techniques Specific for Psychiatric Disorders, Couples Therapy, and Personal Growth by David S. Shannahoff-Khalsa - Editorial Reviews - Immediately practical and applicable. (Keeping in Touch: The United States Association for Body Psychotherapy Newsletter) REVIEW: A valuable and accessible tool for the psychotherapist and yoga teacher. (LifeForce Yoga News and Research)

Review - A valuable and accessible tool for the psychotherapist and yoga teacher.

Product Description - A handbook to an effective alternative therapy. - An ancient practice, Kundalini yoga is a clinically proven therapeutic modality that includes a wide variety of complex and simple meditation techniques involving breath, sound, eye focus, and hand/arm postures. Kundalini yoga is used to treat a range of psychiatric disorders and mental health problems such as anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, depression, bipolar disorders, addiction and other impulse control and eating disorders, ADHD and co-morbid disorders, chronic fatigue syndrome, sleep disorders, abuse and post traumatic stress disorder. David Shannahoff-Khalsa shares a bounty of techniques and teaches clinicians how to incorporate these effective methods into their own practices both for individuals and couples.

About the Author - David S. Shannahoff-Khalsa is the Director of The Research Group for Mind-Body Dynamics, Institute for Nonlinear Science, University of California, San Diego. He has published widely in scientific journals and routinely presents at the American Psychiatric Association annual meetings. He is a world authority in yogic medicine, a Kudalini Yoga teacher, and a leader in the field of alternative therapies for psychiatric disorders.

Will Yoga & Meditation Really Change My Life: Personal Stories from 25 of North America's Leading Teachers by Stephen Cope - Editorial Reviews - From Booklist - Cope, a scholar-in-residence and teacher at the Kripalu Center, examines the widespread growth of Eastern spiritual practices in America through personal interviews with 25 prominent teachers of Buddhism, yoga, and meditation responsible, in part, for this proliferation, including Sylvia Boorstein, Lama Surya Das, Judith Lasater, Larry Rosenberg, and Patricia Walden. Cope asked contributors to write about what they have experienced while conducting their contemplative practice, what fruit the practice has borne in their life, and what the source is of their deepest inspiration. While some spent significant time in traditional Indian ashrams or Zen monasteries, most developed a long-standing contemplative practice in the midst of ordinary American life, and one surprising common thread is how solitary practices positively transformed relationships within the individual's family. Stories of dramatic mystical experiences are few, rather most teachers note that contemplative practice gradually helped them to become kinder, less fearful, and more authentic. Jane Tuma - Copyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved

Product Description - As one of the largest and most successful yoga-based retreat and education centers in the world, Kripalu Center for Yoga & Health in Lenox, Massachusetts, attracts many of the leading teachers of yoga and Buddhist meditation to its annual retreat, East meets East: Yoga & Buddhism. In Will Yoga & Meditation Really Change My Life? Stephen Cope brings to the printed page the fascinating dialogue that he has fostered in these retreats.

Cope asks participating teachers to share their Tales from the Path, stories of how the long-term practice of these ancient traditions has changed their lives. The result is an inspirational volume featuring 26 distinct voices telling their stories, how they became interested in these traditions, the teachers who inspired them, and how the practice of yoga and meditation has shaped their lives and perspectives.

The contributors, many of whom are authors of well-known books on these topics, speak of their experiences as real people living in our complex world, complete with spouses, children, aging parents, financial demands, illnesses, injuries, and all of the ordinary aggravations of everyday life. Many of these teachers have studied and explored the practice of yoga or meditation over the course of 30 years and have been pivotal in creating retreat centers, styles of yoga, and teaching techniques that have contributed to the widespread popularity of these practices in mainstream culture.

The stories of these teachers ask the questions, What is possible for me, in my life, right now? How can my practice of yoga and meditation help me lead a more satisfying life? These are questions on which every spiritual seeker and practitioner of yoga and meditation inevitably must reflect.

Essential Yoga: An Illustrated Guide to Over 100 Yoga Poses and Meditations by Olivia H. Miller and Nicole Kauffman - Editorial Reviews - From Publishers Weekly - One of the simplest yet most comprehensive yoga books to be published in recent memory, Miller's work could become a classic. Using elegant, gentle prose and graceful line drawings to illustrate poses, the book serves as an excellent introduction for those unfamiliar with or just getting used to breathing in downward facing dog position. Miller, who has been practicing yoga for over 25 years and [has written] for Yoga Journal and other publications, takes a three-pronged approach to teaching yoga, focusing on the equally important components of breathing, poses and meditation. She doesn't spend much time on the history and origins of yoga, and quickly moves to technique. Focusing on hatha yoga, Miller teaches readers breathing exercises and how to warm up, and then proceeds to standing, seated, prone, supine and inverted poses. Subsequent chapters share suggested meditations and suggested flow series. The latter section lays out routines practitioners can follow (among them, the popular sun salutation and camel vinyasa), as well as series of poses that Miller devised [with yoga teacher Paul Howard] that target specific conditions (including ones for anxiety and tension relief, cold prevention and improving circulation) and sports (e.g., running, swimming, tennis and rowing). By giving variations for each pose, Miller makes her book appropriate for all levels, although the positive and upbeat tone will especially comfort beginners struggling with the challenging pigeon or full shoulder-stand positions. Copyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Product Description - From the author of the best-selling Yoga Deck comes Essential Yoga -- the only hatha yoga book to offer this many poses (over 100), this many illustrations (over 180), and this many suggested sequences (over 50). Practical and interactive, it focuses on the poses themselves, providing clear, concise instructions and detailed illustrations for each, all in a lay-flat format that's easy to refer to during yoga practice. It also includes six classic moving meditations (such as Sun Salutation and Camel Vinyasa), 10 beginner-to-advanced sessions, and 48 mini-sequences designed to build strength for specific activities or alleviate health problems. Essential Yoga combines physical poses (asanas), breathing exercises (pranayamas), and meditations (dhyanas) into a simple and complete reference guide for yoga practitioners of all levels. Along the way, author Olivia Miller provides guidance on proper technique and alignment; modifications for beginners or those with knee, neck, or back pain; suggestions for preventing injury; and ways to keep a regular practice interesting and active. For beginners as much as experts looking for one complete book that has it all, Essential Yoga is it.

Yoga Meditations Collection (Yoga Masters Meditation Series) by Cyndi Lee, Gael Chiarella, and Beryl Bender Birch (Audio CD) - Product Description - Yoga Masters Meditation Series audio programs are powerful guided meditations led by teachers from the most respected Yoga schools in the world. These one-on-one guided sessions will lead you easily into deep meditation, connecting with the source of freedom, peace and healin

The Sivananda Companion to Meditation : How to Master the Mind and Achieve Transcendence by Sivananda Yoga Center, Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centers - Product Description - Realize the Power and Eternity of Every Moment

"Meditation is a continuous flow of perception or thought like the flow of water in a river." - SWAMI VISHNU-DEVANANDA

An integral part of all forms of yoga, meditation is an important key to achieving peace of mind in our increasingly chaotic lives, with regular practice enhancing mental, physical, and spiritual well-being. The Sivananda Companion to Meditation outlines a simple step-by-step guide to the practice of meditation and shows you how to make it a part of your everyday routine. You will learn about the beneficial effects of meditation, including how this powerful art will help you to

* Reduce stress and experience greater clarity of mind
* Treat health problems, ranging from depression and anxiety to insomnia and chronic pain
* Develop your powers of concentration and positive thinking
* Lead a more balanced life in tune with the fivefold path as taught by the Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Center

The Sivananda Companion to Meditation is geared to beginners as well as those already experienced in the art of meditation. Regardless of your level, this book will help you to attain a state of profound clarity and serenity that will change your life.

About the Author - The Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Center is internationally recognized as the leading authority on hatha and raja yoga, and has locations throughout the United States, Canada, and around the world.

Meditation and Yoga Nidra (Relaxation and Stress Reduction, Healing and Rejuvenation) by Dr Swami Shankardev Saraswati and Jayne Stevenson (Audio CD) - Product Description - The rest gained from 30 minutes of Yoga Nidra is deeper and more recuperative than several hours of normal sleep. The gentle healing process releases long term tensions, anxiety and exhaustion from the body-mind. Yoga Nidra improves the quality of sleep and promotes calm, grounded and positive feelings.

This CD combines powerful western methods of psychology with classical Yoga Nidra to aid greater relaxation and healing. Dr Swami Shankardev is a direct disciple of Swami Satyananda Saraswati, the originator of Yoga Nidra.

About the Author - Dr Swami Shankardev Saraswati's teachings integrate mind-body medicine with eastern and western self-development methods. The culmination of his 30-year medical career and his extensive esoteric studies has formed a revolutionary and authentic approach to total health. As a medical therapist Dr Swami Shankardev specializes in the treatment and rehabilitation of chronic physical and mental conditions.

Dr Swami Shankardev has toured extensively throughout Europe, the USA, India and Australia teaching yoga, meditation, psychology, philosophy, yoga therapy, and Ayurveda. His seminars support people to restore their unlimited potential and to maximize their physical, emotional and spiritual development. Dr Swami Shankardev s in-print books on yoga therapy are published by the Bihar School of Yoga and include Yogic Management of Asthma and Diabetes, The Effects of Yoga on Hypertension, The Practices of Yoga for the Digestive System, and Amaroli. His latest articles and workshop information can be found on the Big Shakti website.

Jayne Stevenson is a writer and filmmaker with a deep interest in art and spirituality.

Her films have screened in art galleries, cinemas and television networks around the world, including the USA, Europe and Australia.

An accomplished practitioner of Dao and yoga meditation, she has developed an in-depth understanding of mind-body integration and higher consciousness.

With a passion for communicating ancient, authentic wisdom to the modern society in accessible and meaningful ways, Jayne established Big Shakti with Dr Swami Shankardev Saraswati in 2004. Big Shakti is a publishing and production enterprise that presents authentic knowledge and practices of yoga, meditation, tantra and healing arts.

The Complete Book of Yoga & Meditation for Pregnancy by Theresa Jamieson - Editorial Reviews - From Library Journal - This is a useful resource for the practice of Hatha Yoga during the perinatal period. It focuses primarily on poses, breathing exercises, and meditations, providing easy-to-follow written and photographic instructions. The book is unusually thorough in its directions for individual poses, including explanations of mental and physical benefits, safety precautions, pose variations, breathing instructions, and Sanskrit names. Jamieson, who holds degrees in traditional and herbal medicine, runs a healing sanctuary in Australia, and teaches prenatal yoga, here includes poses typically omitted from more cautious treatments. This is a fun book, rich in detail and background, with birth stories, techniques for dealing with pain, and historical and cultural background. The author's holistic approach will not match that of many readers, but this does not compromise the book's clarity or credibility. This is not, however, a complete treatment of the subject, the title notwithstanding. Although it is more comprehensive than other perinatal yoga books on the market, many aspects of yoga and many poses are not covered. Recommended for public libraries. Noemie Maxwell, Seattle Midwifery Sch., WA - Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Product Description - A safe and natural way to prepare for a wonderful birth experience! Even if you have no prior experience with yoga you can increase your health, physical tone, and energy using a variety of stretches, positions, and breathing exercises especially selected for all stages of pregnancy. Harness your inner strength through visualizations and meditations, including some specifically intended for pregnant women that focus on the baby in the womb, the miracle of birth, and the wonder of being a woman. Six half-hour prenatal exercise programs are included, along with dietary suggestions to help ensure a healthy pregnancy. A section on important skills for labor, including meditations, positions, and essential oils, will help you ease the pain and make the most of the life-changing experience. You'll also find inspiring birth stories in which 11 women explain how yoga played a significant role during pregnancy, labor and birth, and postpardum programs to help you get back in shape after delivery.

Zen Yoga: A Path To Enlightenment Through Breathing, Movement and Meditation by Aaron Hoopes - Product Description - Zen Yoga is the culmination of the more than twenty-five years Aaron Hoopes has spent studying and training in the practical and spiritual arts of Japan, China and India. In this book, he combines the mindful serenity of Zen meditation, the graceful movements of Tai Chi, the energized breathing of Qigong, and the peaceful stretching exercises of Shanti Yoga. He then blends breathing, moving, stretching, and relaxation exercises into a unique discipline that opens up to anyone, regardless of age or physical condition, the potential for experiencing a new way of living. But Zen Yoga is more than a simple exercise program. It offers a formula to guide us toward a healthier, happier, fitter, and more peaceful state of being.

In engaging, easily-understood prose, Hoopes begins by defining the concepts and explaining his ideas on Zen, Yoga, the Chakras, Chi energy, and the Tao. The next part of the book focuses on breathing, moving, and relaxing exercises, with a final section on spiritual deepening that shows how the experience of Zen Yoga can be merged with the personal spiritual inclinations of the individual. The book includes detailed photographs showing correct positions and sequence of movements. The Zen Yoga program promotes a healthy body, mind, and spirit. At a deeper level, a commitment to Zen Yoga can illuminate ways to encourage enlightenment, radiate harmony and live in full awareness of the present moment. Aaron Hoopes book contains simple breath and mind-body exercises that are not out of the reach of ordinary people. Zen Yoga has worked for my patients. I plan to use this book for them (and myself) and to recommend it to anyone looking for an honest and practical, yet sophisticated book on yoga. --Reza Yavari, M.D., author of It Must Be My Metabolism

The Complete Idiot's Guide to Meditation (2nd Edition) by Joan Budilovsky and Eve Adamson - Product Description - In today's hectic times, it's more important than ever to learn to slow down, relax and be calm. Whether part of religious habit or just part of a daily routine, meditation can help slow the today's frenzied pace and improve feelings of good health, peace and control. In The Complete Idiot's Guide(R) to Meditation, Second Edition, the authors explain how easy it is to enjoy the benefits of meditation including: simple stress-reduction techniques that make learning to meditate easier; incorporating meditation into day-to-day situations; common misconceptions about meditating; and special techniques from Zen to guided imagery to mindfulness meditation.

From the Back Cover - You're no idiot, of course. You know it's important to exercise, eat right, and get enough sleep. But when it comes to relaxing and slowing down the pace, you sill can't get out of the fast lane. Don't crash and burn yet! The Complete Idiot's Guide to Meditation shows you how easy it is to enjoy the benefits of meditation. In this Complete Idiot's Guide, you get: --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

About the Author - Joan Budilovsky received her Hatha Yoga Teacher's Certification in 1994 from the Temple of Kriya Yoga in Chicago. She is a nationally certified massage therapist and an active member of the Associated Bodywork and Massage Professionals. Eve Adamson is a freelance writer, student of meditation, and co-author of many Complete Idiot's Guides(R),including The Complete Idiot's Guide(R) to Yoga, The Complete Idiot's Guide(R) to Massage and The Complete Idiot's Guide(R) to Zen Living.

Bountiful, Beautiful, Blissful: Experience the Natural Power of Pregnancy and Birth with Kundalini Yoga and Meditation by Gurmukh Kaur Khalsa and Cindy Crawford - Editorial Reviews - "Gurmukh is Hollywood's favorite pregnancy guru. . . . She draws people by the thousands each month to the Golden Bridge yoga studio in Los Angeles, and she's considered one of the nation's yoga superstars." ---Los Angeles Times -- Review --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

Review - "Gurmukh is Hollywood's favorite pregnancy guru. . . . She draws people by the thousands each month to the Golden Bridge yoga studio in Los Angeles, and she's considered one of the nation's yoga superstars." --Los Angeles Times

Product Description - From internationally renowned yoga teacher Gurmukh comes a book on pregnancy unlike any other. Bountiful, Beautiful, Blissful is a treasury of wisdom, information, and inspiration for pregnancy and motherhood based on the spiritual and physical practices of Kundalini yoga, which Gurmukh has taught for the last thirty years.

With illustrated, step-by-step instructions, she teaches time-tested techniques, meditations, and exercises that will help you physically, mentally, and spiritually. In the timeless way that women have passed down wisdom surrounding birth and child rearing to one another for centuries, Gurmukh weaves folk stories and contemporary testimonials into a program designed to help you get profound results in the shortest possible time.

The sections in this book cover each trimester of pregnancy as well as delivery and life with the baby. In her wise, gentle, and comforting voice, Gurmukh suggests meditations, exercises, and yoga positions to respond to the various needs of expectant and new mothers as you undergo dramatic body changes. Gurmukh also helps you explore and, when necessary, heal your own history and unconscious attitudes about pregnancy, birth, and parenting.

In Bountiful, Beautiful, Blissful, Gurmukh gives you all the tools you need to have a healthy and happy pregnancy while increasing your connection to your partner and building compassion and prosperity. The ancient practices of yoga can lead you back to your own power as a woman, capable of more than you ever dreamed. All you need is a belief in the possibility of change and a commitment of as little as three minutes a day. Gurmukh has helped thousands of women and their families find fulfillment through the healing movements and meditations of Kundalini yoga---and she can help you, too!

About the Author - Gurmukh is a pioneer in yoga and the mind-body-spirit connection. Based in Los Angeles, Gurmukh teaches Kundalini yoga, meditation, and pre- and postnatal care. She founded the Golden Bridge Yoga Center, where she is the director and senior teacher. She has been featured in many magazines, including Vogue, W, InStyle, and People. Gurmukh teaches all over the world, from India to Europe and from Central America to the United States. Her previous book is The Eight Human Talents (cowritten with Cathryn Michon). Her kind, compassionate wisdom and counsel touch the life of everyone she meets.

Prayer of Heart and Body: Meditation and Yoga As Christian Spiritual Practice by Thomas Ryan - Editorial Reviews - Product Description - If you're looking for clear links between Christian faith and the practice of yoga and meditation, this book is for you. Prayer of Heart and Body will help you integrate teachings from the Christian contemplative tradition into your practice and encourage a new appreciation for the role of the body in prayer. "Yoga," says the author, is "meditation in motion, a way to pray with one's whole being--body, mind and spirit. It was originally designed to prepare people for sitting meditation." The two work powerfully together.

Quoting extensively from such authors as Ignatius, John of the Cross, Rahner and Merton, Ryan explains what is distinctive about Christian meditation compared to some eastern forms, and looks at reincarnation and kundalini energy in the light of Christian faith, respecting the authenticity of other world religions and drawing from their wisdom traditions where appropriate. "Through this, Ryan integrates all that is beautiful, wise and holy in other traditions," says Jean Vanier in his Foreword, for a book that is "unifying and pacifying."

The final section gives explicit instructions on beginning yoga. Using easy-to-follow diagrams, it covers breathing exercises, warm-up exercises, and the postures, including benefits, precautions and contraindications for each. In all, the basic aim of this beautifully written book is to assist the millions of Christians who today are practicing meditation or yoga or both, to consciously integrate them into their Christian spirituality as effective instruments for their personal development in prayer and daily living.

About the Author - Thomas Ryan, C.S.P., directs the Paulist North American Office for Ecumenical and Interfaith Relations in New York City. Father Ryan also leads retreats in the U.S., Canada and Europe.

Meditation, Transformation, and Dream Yoga by Gyatrul Rinpoche - Editorial Reviews - Product Description - "Exercises are given which can be practiced by anyone in any circumstance." --The TIbet Journal

"I feel confident that the readers who take this book to heart and apply its meaning will benefit greatly." --Chokyi Nyima Rinpoche, author of Present Fresh Wakefulness

"With humor, warmth, and wisdom, Gyatrul Rinpoche opens these vital, much revered texts to a new generation of Buddhist practitioners." --Sakyong Mipham Rinpoche, head of Shambhala International

Review - "Exercises are given which can be practiced by anyone in any circumstance."

Review - "With humor, warmth, and wisdom, Gyatrul Rinpoche opens these vital, much revered texts to a new generation of Buddhist practitioners."

Product Description - Guidelines for calm abiding and insight meditation are presented from the dzogchen perspective.

From the Back Cover - Guidelines for calm abiding and insight meditation are presented in this book from the Dzogchen perspective. Practices for bringing the daily experiences of pleasure and pain into the spiritual path are presented in the section on transformation. Finally, the teachings on dream yoga guide the practitioner in the conscious control of the dream state, as well as after death.

Three traditional Nyingma teachings were selected for contemporary Buddhists who want to improve the quality of their practice during the three periods of their day--during meditation, in their active life, and during sleep. Gyatrul Rinpoche, a respected teacher in the USA, expands and explains these texts.

"When the Venerable Gyatrul Rinpoche arrived in the West many decades ago he was already a receptacle for an abundance of transmissions received from many of the foremost and authentic masters of our times. Since then, his noble disposition and advanced level of meditation practice has assisted innumerable people and he has established many Dharma centers. I feel confident that the readers who take this book to heart and apply its meaning will benefit greatly."--Chokyi Nyima Rinpoche, author of Present Fresh Wakefulness

"Exercises are given which can be practiced by anyone in any circumstance."--The Tibet Journal

"With humor, warmth, and wisdom, Gyatrul Rinpoche opens these vital and much revered texts to a new generation of Buddhist practitioners." --Sakyong Mipham Rinpoche, head of Shambhala International

"Gyatrul Rinpoche's dynamic teachings are tailored to the needs of Western lifestyle."--Transpersonal Review

This teaching was given to the Shambhala community in Boulder in the fall of 1991. This book was previously published as Ancient Wisdom.

About the Author - Ven. Gyatrul Rinpoche, who founded the Pacific Region Yeshe Nyingpo centers on the West Coast, lives in Ashland, Oregon, and in Sedona, Arizona.

The Four Yogas: A Guide to the Spiritual Paths of Action, Devotion, Meditation and Knowledge by Swami Adiswarananda - Editorial Reviews - From Publishers Weekly - In America, Yoga is primarily understood as a series of physical exercises. But in this book, Adiswarananda, a monk who follows the influential 19th-century guru Ramakrishna and teaches in New York City, unpacks with clarity the spiritual systems of Yoga. A Hindu philosophy, Yoga is intended to bring about union with God. The author examines the four types of Yoga referred to in the title, using the same organizing concepts (philosophy, psychology, practices, obstacles) so that differences and similarities among the paths can be clarified, even about such heady topics as "ultimate reality." Along the way, a good deal of the Hindu understanding of God and human nature is translated, literally and figuratively, into Western-friendly ideas and terms. ("Meditation is not relaxation, as is often thought nowadays.") Sanskrit terms are explained in a glossary. Characteristic of explanations of philosophy, the text, though clear, tends toward lecture-like dryness. This would make a good reference for students of Eastern spirituality. Copyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. --This text refers to the Hardcover edition.

Product Description - The philosophy of Yoga tells us that the root cause of our sorrows and suffering is loss of contact with our true Self. Our recovery is only possible by reestablishing contact with our innermost Self, the Reality of all realities, and by recognizing that knowledge of Self is our salvation. In this comprehensive guide, Swami Adiswarananda introduces the four spiritual paths of yoga--Karma-Yoga, Bhakti-Yoga, Raja-Yoga and Jnana-Yoga--and what you can expect as an aspirant on each path. Covering the message and practice of each of the yogas as well as philosophy and psychology, preparatory practices, common obstacles and ways to overcome them, this accessible book will prove invaluable to anyone wishing to follow a yoga practice in order to realize the goal of Self-knowledge. --This text refers to the Hardcover edition.

Meditation, Mind & Patanjali's Yoga: A Practical Guide to Spiritual Growth for Everyone by Swami Bhaskarananda - Editorial Reviews - From Library Journal - This volume, a product of the Vedanta Society of Western Washington, is a capably written and presented overview of certain tenets of Vedanta relevant to mind control and meditation. Swami Bhaskarananda's material includes a pronunciation guide for transliterated Sanskrit words, as well as appendixes dealing with additional reading and visual depictions of the deep state of meditation. He also deals with obstacles to meditation in some detail and the value of meditation as a form of stress relief. In short, this volume should be useful for both new and accustomed practitioners. Copyright 2001 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Review - ...wonderful. Very clear and very very well presented. I thoroughly enjoyed it -- Prof. John Grimes, Dept. of Religious Studies, Michigan State University

...wonderful. Very clear and very very well presented. I thoroughly enjoyed it --Prof. John Grimes, Dept. of Religious Studies, Michigan State University

In short, this volume should be useful for both new and accustomed practitioners. -- Library Journal 2001

It is a wonderfully rich and mature treatise on meditation and growth in spiritual life, with many fine observations which should help beginners and more advanced practitioners as well to advance along the spiritual path. ... He speaks from a tradition with good common sense and a sense of rootedness. It is a strength of the book that it is focused concisely on Yoga and Yoga works. --Francis X Clooney, S.J. Professor of Theology, Boston college

This volume, a product of the Vedanta Society of Western Washington, is a capably written and presented overview of certain tenets of Vedanta relevant to mind control and meditation. Swami Bhaskarananda's material includes a pronunciation guide for transliterated Sanskrit words, as well as appendixes dealing with additional reading and visual depictions of the deep state of meditation. He also deals with obstacles to meditation in some detail and the value of meditation as a form of stress relief. In short, this volume should be useful for both new and accustomed practitioners. Copyright 2001 Reed Business Information, Inc. --Library Journal

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The Abundance Ring Shefa is a word in Hebrew that literally means Abundance. This word, in its highest and most profound meaning, means a tool for creating abundance. It holds powerful kinetic energy, the kind of energy that when coupled with one's intent for the highest goodness and aligned with the Divine will, can move mountains or feed... Go here to learn more.






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