Vital Yoga: A Sourcebook for Students and Teachers

Meta Chaya Hirschl
Prajna Publishing (2010)
ISBN 9780982305508
Reviewed by Vicki Landes for Reader Views (06/10)


Many believe that Yoga is an art form, meant to bring deeper meaning and a clearer center to one’s life.  Author and Yoga guru Meta Chaya Hirschl hopes to assist in this endeavor with her book, “Vital Yoga: A Sourcebook for Students and Teachers.”  Further, she even looks to help those wishing to start Yoga studios of their own with forms and sample classes for various levels.

“Vital Yoga: A Sourcebook for Students and Teachers” is a beautiful, well-articulated volume of information.  Hirschl’s preface section immediately grabs the reader with her love and passion on the subject as she describes how to apply Yoga for a more holistic and joy-filled life.  She also tackles some misconceptions on what it is and what it isn’t.  Her text is broken down into three main sections:  ‘Before the Mat,’ which gives a historical overview and notes some foundational texts; ‘On the Mat,’ which details breathing techniques, meditation, and poses for three different ages and abilities; and ‘Into the World,’ which illustrates how Yoga can be utilized in everyday life.  From foods, attitude, how to teach Yoga to others, and using its techniques in therapy, the ‘Into the World’ section notes that Yoga is more than just an exercise but a way of life.  Brilliantly colorful drawings and vivid pictures are also included to illustrate her methods.   

“Vital Yoga: A Sourcebook for Students and Teachers” is written with a gentle, yet structured style while the author’s genuine enthusiasm is evident throughout.  I even loved the format - no slipcover, open and uncluttered pages, and a heading text font which was easy on the eyes yet reflected a hint of Eastern flair.  The book will appeal to both new and experienced students and teachers of Yoga as it can be used as a how-to as well as a reference.  Its appendices contain pertinent information, sample forms, and sample classes at three different skill levels for those hoping to start teaching on their own but don’t know where to start.  “Vital Yoga” is simply the perfect one-stop shop for anyone in search of all things Yoga!

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