The anatomy of yoga

The Anatomy of Yoga is a full colour illustrated reference book detailing the actions of skeletal muscles within over 100 yoga asanas. Each asana is drawn with the relevant muscle actions superimposed. Consequently, the main muscles that are contracting to hold different aspects of the asana are illustrated in red, whereas those muscles that are being lengthened are shown in blue. Secondary muscles involved in these actions are shown in lighter shades of red or blue respectively. Each fully labelled illustration is accompanied by clear text describing which muscle is performing which function.

Although it is unnecessary to know this information from the point of view of perfecting any given yoga asana, the purpose of this book is to give detailed anatomical information for inclusion in the anatomy curriculum of a yoga teacher training course. As such, it is presented in a format that will make the study of musculo-skeletal anatomy more dynamic and specifically relevant to yoga.

Chris Jarmey has been involved with yoga since the age of 15. He has practised and taught various methods of Hatha Yoga, including the methods commonly referred to as the Rishikesh series, Iyengar and Astanga. As a qualified physiotherapist with specialist experience in body mechanics, and as a practitioner of various Eastern bodywork therapies, and well-known author of some of the leading books on musculo-skeletal anatomy, including The Concise Book of Muscles, also published by Lotus Publishing and North Atlantic Books, Chris brings a unique perspective to the anatomy study requirements of the conscientious yoga teacher trainee.