TIBETAN RELAXATION - TARTHANG TULKU

RATING: B+

An interesting account of Tibetan Kum Nye style yoga. The book covers the meditative, massage, and movement sectors of Kum Nye. There are some interesting options in the physical section that I will be working with, although I have one problem preventing me from practicing this yoga in depth ~ I find it most difficult and uncomfortable to breathe through both my nose and mouth at the same time due to sinus problems.

The slow movements and much sitting add more to the relaxation sector than many forms of Yoga. One piece of advice I found extremely helpful was of focusing on the tense area and then going further into a pose. This advice has worked for all my Yoga practice.

I would recommend this book to those seeking a total form of relaxation, a beginners guide to Kum Nye yoga practice, or interested in picking up a few ideas to add to a current practice of relaxation, yoga, or Buddhism.

TRAINING THE WISDOM BODY - ROSA TAYLOR GOLDFIELD

RATING: C

I found the introduction illuminating on attitude and Chapter 1 also brought new light to my understanding. I spotted my favorite prayer in Chapter 3 and learned that it originated from words by Milarepa. Unlike many Yoga practice books, this one deals predominantly with standing asanas and the Buddhist outlook. I found several new poses to consider for my personal practice.

I would recommend this book to Yoga students interested in discovering a connection to Buddhism especially if they practice both, and to those interested in a different attitude to Yoga and/or new postures to incorporate into their personal routine.

TIBETAN YOGAS OF BODY, SPEECH, AND MIND - TENZIN WANGYAL RINPOCHE

RATING: B+

A 2011 publication with exploration, explanation, exercises, and guidance on further practices possible under a qualified teacher. I particularly related to the investigation of the '4 immeasurables' prayer and found the Bon Buddhist mandala concerning it fascinating. The chapter on prana was also informative and personally useful.

I would recommend this book to those interested in Bon Buddhism, Dzogchen, and understanding the possibilities and performance of such; also to those wishing to investigate the natural healing properties within our own hands and/or a liking for the words of TWR.