Ashtanga Yoga: Yoga in the Tradition of Sri K. Pattabhi Jois : The Primary Series Practice Manual Paperback – January 28, 2016

Petri Raisanen's Ashtanga Yoga: Yoga in the Tradition of Sri K Pattabhi Jois is an essential resource for the current standard of the Ashtanga Yoga Primary Series as it is taught and practiced in Mysore, India. The author includes a detailed history of his path within Ashtanga Yoga, of how the system has changed and adapted as Guruji (as Sri K Pattabhi Jois was affectionately known by his students) and the system came into contact with the Western world. The principle aim of his book is to "offer an accurate documentation" in a clear and precise format, of the Ashtanga Yoga Primary Series. The author provides detailed instructions on all of the elements of the asana practice: correct vinyasa count, the use of bandhas (energetic locks), the dristhi (gazing points). He even gives helpful comments for students just beginning their journey into the Primary Series. The photographs, by Alexander Berg, are stunning black-and-white pieces of the author expertly performing the postures, with sharp contrasts between the tones. The book is bound as a durable beautiful hardcover. I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in yoga, and in Ashtanga Yoga in particular.

This book is an excellent detailed guide to Ashtanga yoga. As a student of Patthabi Jois, Petri offers readers the deepest insight into the roots of practice and philosophy of Ashtanga. I believe, this book is great not only for beginners, but also for those, who are already familiar with Ashtanga practice and wish to deepen and perfect their knowledge. It has incredible form and structure, beautifully precise photographs to show every asana in the book, and amazingly detailed explanation of alignment, breathing and terminology. Love this book, much respect and gratitude to the author!

This book is beautiful beyond words. It's comprehensive, such that it discussed the history, the eight limbs, benefits and breath counts of the asanas. The poses are broken down into the description, getting into it including the counts involved.I have Swenson's and McGregor's books but this might just be my favorite go-to Ashtanga resource. Couldn't be any happier with my purchase ❤️

Petri stays true to the tradition in this book. I have a few books on Ashtanga by various practitioners and this one is my favorite. I appreciate his emphasis on the spiritual tradition since I have discovered that this particular style of yoga taps into something very deep within that I always heard was there but never felt it until now. Petri provides the traditional vinyasa flow where the full Surya Namaskar A was in between every asana. He also provides the modern day version where half Surya Namaskar A is done. It gives options to both new and seasoned practitioners, in my opinion.

An excellent and thorough manual. Honest, beautiful images of that capture the art of yoga practice accompany authoritative information and instruction in the Ashtanga system.

Among the best practice manuals for ashtanga primary series with some really eye-opening insights. Must have for any ashtanga practitioner, especially for those practicing at home.

I ordered the brand new hard cover copy of this book to add to my collection and there was already writings in the book. Very disappointed.

If you are looking for a quick fix yoga lesson, buy another book . Here Petri explains the core principals of Ashtanga from ground up . The book alone can not learn you Ashtanga , but as a complementary to a course it is perfect .