Yoga for Transformation: Ancient Teachings and Practices for Healing the Body, Mind, and Heart by Gary Kraftsow
Excellent introduction and reference book on the key aspects and foundations for Yoga practice. Clearly explains the link between mind, body, and breath.
Yoga Mind, Body & Spirit: A Return to Wholeness by Donna Farhi
Devoted to the asanas (yoga postures) and the practices of breathing and meditation. Lots of photographs and line drawings show how to do the various poses and exercises. Posture descriptions are accompanied by benefits and effects, cautions, tips, and prenatal suggestions.
Hatha Yoga Illustrated by Martin Kirk, Brooke Boon, Daniel DiTuro
Great beginner’s guide, over 70 individual poses are presented from start to finish, showing you how to achieve proper alignment and breathing for a challenging and safe practice.
Yoga for Wellness: Healing with the Timeless Teachings of Viniyoga by Gary Kraftsow
Covers the basic postures, the specific movements of each posture, and how to sequence postures in a routine. More importantly, he moves from form to function, showing how sequences of postures can alleviate ailments in each system of the body, from lower back pain to hypertension--even depression and multiple sclerosis.
Ashtanga Yoga: The Practice Manual: An Illustrated Guide to Personal Practice by David Swenson
Probably the best Ashtanga Yoga book for the beginner. Contains the entire Primary and Intermediate series of Ashtanga Yoga with three options for every asana. It is spiral bound to easily remain open while practicing.
Yoga: Path to Holistic Health by B.K.S. Iyengar
One of the world's leading yoga teachers offers detailed instructions for postures of all levels of difficulty, illustrated by color photos and accompanied by helpful explanations of their health benefits.
