The Science of Yoga

Basic findings from scientific research presented in this book:
1- Yoga does not improve cardivascular fitness.
2- Yoga is likely to cause you to gain weight, rather than lose it, because it decreases your metabolism.
3- Yoga significantly improves symptoms of anxiety and depression, across the board.
4- Yoga measurably, vastly improves your libido and sexual function.
5- Your brain on yoga, as measured by MRIs, is like your brain on spiritual inspiration and orgasm.

So don't do yoga to get in shape, physically, BUT - do it for all the other reasons. The evidence is there. It's a fascinating read.

It was the first book I've read on the subject of yoga. I am new to yoga practice. The book is compilation of various scientific studies regarding the effects of yoga on the human body like pranayama and asana practice. It covers both physical and mental aspects throughout its chapters in a very matter-of-fact way describing experiments and results of the studies.

The author discusses some myths and misconceptions of yoga and at the same highlights the benefits and warns of the dangers. The studies demonstrating the good effects of yoga on the mood are very impressive. It was very interesting to know that there are doctors specialized in physical therapy treatments who started to use yoga as a method of healing, and with positive results. Maybe the most controversial chapter of the book is the one about injuries, which brings many bizarre (and rare) cases of strokes and other problems that some yogis faced during practice.

It was a very enjoyable read that fed my curiosity on the subject. Now I am even more convinced of the recommendation that my yoga instructor gives every class: “Strive without forcing yourself”.