The Secret Power of Yoga

March 15, 2007
Patanjali'sYoga Sutras, estimated by yoga teacher Devi (The Healing Path of Yoga ), an innovator in the field of alternative healing, to be at least 2500 years old (the general opinion is 17002200), is the first known book of yoga teachings. It has inspired hundreds of commentaries and translations, but this interpretation, for which Devi "reforms a variety of previous translations," is different. Its approach is from the heart, feminine, and intuitive, with a heartfelt consciousness. In its traditional format, Yoga Sutras is divided into four books. Devi concentrates on Books 1 ("Union with Divine Self") and 2 ("Cultivation of a Spiritual Practice") before embarking on the more esoteric Books 3 ("The Divine Manifestation of Power") and 4 ("Supreme Liberation"). She accompanies each sutra first with commentary, then with a meditation, or what she calls an "experience." Devi embraces the spirit of the sutras, or aphorisms, not their literal meaning, allowing the sacred teachings to "vibrate" in the heart and soul. Why study the sutras? They remind us of how divine we are. Highly recommended for all libraries.Dede Archer, Naples, FL

Copyright 2007 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.