Another indispensable resource is Gregor Maehle’s Ashtanga Yoga: Practice and Philosophy. Maehle goes beyond the physical execution of asana by integrating the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali into the practice of the Primary Series. Each posture is analyzed through the lens of anatomy and alignment, but the book also provides a verse-by-verse commentary on the sutras. This helps students bridge the gap between sweating on the mat and achieving the meditative state that Ashtanga is designed to cultivate.
: This is a favorite among those who want more than just a list of poses. Reviewers on Amazon.com note that it masterfully weaves together anatomy, safe physical form, and the inner spiritual form of the practice. 2. The Traditional and Foundational Texts ashtanga yoga book