10 Modern Yoga Classics for Every Yogi's Bookshelf

 

In the ancient practice of yoga, the concept of svādhyāya — commonly translated as "self-study" — holds a vital place among the niyamas, or personal ethical behaviors as described in Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras.

At its heart, svādhyāya encourages us to explore not only our inner world but also the wisdom passed down through teachings, texts, and traditions. This self-study is an ongoing journey that expands far beyond the mat.

Aside from the ancient Sanskrit texts that are considered the scriptures of the yogic tradition, such as the aforementioned Yoga Sutras, there are many contemporary yoga books that are a little more accessible to the modern reader. These modern yoga books are a profound way to deepen our understanding of the practice and its relevance in today’s world.

So, whether you’re a yoga teacher looking to enrich your teaching or just a curious student keen to dive deeper into the history, philosophy, and mythology behind this practice, these modern yoga books are a great addition to any yogis’ bookshelf.

Here are 10 of Our Favorite Modern Yoga Books (In No Particular Order)

Be Here Now by Baba Ram Dass

While not exactly a yoga book per se, Be Here Now is a modern spiritual classic that deserves a spot on any seeker’s nightstand. 

Described by the New York Times as the “counterculture bible,” this book contains a powerful distillation of wisdom attained from Ram Dass’s journey of spiritual awakening. Combining personal memoir, spiritual teachings, and whimsical illustrations, Ram Dass offers timeless wisdom on the transformative power of mindfulness and presence.

Science of Yoga by Ann Swanson

Ann Swanson's visually engaging guide bridges the gap between ancient yoga practices and modern science. Science of Yoga breaks down the physiological and psychological benefits of yoga, supported by evidence-based research and illustrations. While not a exhaustive guide of all the science behind yoga (what a long book that would be!), it's certainly an essential resource for teachers and students seeking a scientific perspective on the practice.

 

Yoga Body by Mark Singleton

In Yoga Body, Mark Singleton examines the modern evolution of yoga as a physical practice, tracing its development in the 20th century. The book, which, according to Yoga Journal, “marked a watershed moment in the history of global asana culture,” challenges romanticized notions of yoga's history. Mark Singleton’s thoughtful analysis is essential for anyone curious about the intersection of tradition and modernity in contemporary yoga.

Roots of Yoga by Mark Singleton and James Mallinson

Purchase Roots of Yoga

Co-authored by Yoga Body's Mark Singleton and fellow scholar-practicioner James Mallinson, this comprehensive anthology compiles foundational texts from diverse yoga traditions, offering translations and commentary that highlight the multifaceted nature of yoga’s history and philosophy. Roots of Yoga is an indispensable resource for dedicated practitioners and scholars looking to engage deeply with primary sources.

 The Truth of Yoga by Daniel Simpson

Purchase The Truth of Yoga

Accessible and concise, The Truth of Yoga serves as a practical guide to understanding the history and philosophy of yoga.  Daniel Simpson dispels common misconceptions about yoga and distills complex ideas into digestible insights, making this book a valuable companion for anyone eager to grasp yoga's deeper meanings and its application in modern life.

The Psychology of Yoga by Georg Feuerstein

Purchase The Psychology of Yoga

In his book, subtitled “Integrating Eastern and Western Approaches for Understanding the Mind,” Georg Feuerstein bridges Eastern yogic philosophies with Western psychological approaches to explore the mind’s role in spiritual development. This book provides a balanced and thoughtful examination of how yoga can inform and transform our mental and emotional landscapes.

Tantra Illuminated by Dr. Christopher Wallis

While more of a textbook than a light read, Tantra Illuminated promises to be, for the first time in the English language, “an accessible introduction to this sacred tradition that began 1,500 years ago, in the far north of India.” Christopher Wallis offers a deep dive into the teachings of non-dual Śaiva Tantra, shedding light on this often misunderstood tradition. Written with clarity and depth, this book provides practitioners and teachers with an authentic understanding of Tantra’s spiritual framework and its relevance to modern yoga.

 The Stories Behind the Poses by Dr. Raj Balkaran

Purchase The Stories Behind the Poses

Do you know why Hanumanasana is called Hanumanasana? Read this book, and you'll find out! Dr. Raj Balkaran delves into the rich mythology and historical significance of yoga’s asanas, weaving captivating tales that connect ancient Indian storytelling traditions with the poses we practice today. This book invites readers to see yoga as not just a physical exercise but a narrative art steeped in profound meaning and cultural heritage.

Light on Yoga by B.K.S. Iyengar

Purchase Light on Yoga

No list of modern yoga literature would be complete without B.K.S Iyengar’s seminal Light on Yoga (and yes, published in the 60s still qualifies this as a modern yoga work). In what’s often referred to as the “the bible of  modern yoga,” the master yoga teacher and founder of the Iyengar lineage offers a definitive guide on how, and why, to practice yoga, with detailed descriptions of over 200 yoga asanas.

On Yoga by Michael O'Neill

Finally, we have On Yoga, a breathtaking piece of art published by the coffee table geniuses at Taschen that's beautiful enough to be enjoyed by those without even the faintest interest in yoga. In his stunning visual exploration of yoga, Michael O'Neill showcases a decade of his photographic journey documenting yoga practitioners and their stories around the globe. This book pairs breathtaking imagery with personal reflections, celebrating the universal and transformative power of yoga.

 

Have a favorite yoga book that didn't make it on our list? Reach out and let us know!