Many people probably believe that you can't learn yoga from a book. However, I would disagree. Complicated, advanced poses usually require the assistance of a skilled yoga coach or trainer, especially for a somewhat hopeless non-athlete like myself.
Nevertheless, I would argue that you CAN teach yourself quite a few key poses and on your own create a comprehensive, personal yoga regime that targets every part of your physique. Numerous people have taught themselves yoga ranging from the teenage son of one of my local librarians to Yoga teacher and scientist, Roger Cole. Cole has stated, "I first found yoga in books. I saw a Sun Salutation in Be Here Nowby Ram Dass, that I started practicing."
It really depends on the books and their authors. Some books can thoroughly explain, step-by-step, movement by movement, exactly how to do a pose. Others may give you only vague, broad descriptions that are not very useful and can lead you hold poses incorrectly. You can find the same disparity in ability between yoga teachers in an upscale yoga studio or class. It all depends on your personal preference and needs. But, can you be a self-taught yogi and gain tremendous benefits from hatha yoga? I most certainly have.
Wisdom of the Day: "Yoga is the perfect opportunity to be curious about who you are. " ~Jason Crandell, Yoga Journal, November 2005.
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