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The Science of Yoga
- The Risks and Rewards
- Narrated by: Matthew Boston
- Length: 9 hrs and 2 mins
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Summary
In this remarkable book about yoga, William Broad, a lifelong practitioner, shows us that uncommon states are integral to a hidden world of risk and reward that lies beneath clouds of myth, superstition, and hype.
Five years in the making, The Science of Yoga draws on more than a century of painstaking research to present the first impartial evaluation of a practice thousands of years old. It celebrates what’s real and shows what’s illusory, describes what’s uplifting and beneficial and what’s flaky and dangerous—and why. Broad illuminates how yoga can lift moods and inspire creativity. He exposes moves that can cripple and kill. As science often does, this groundbreaking book also reveals mysteries. It presents a fascinating body of evidence that raises questions about whether humans have latent capabilities for entering states of suspended animation and unremitting sexual bliss.
The Science of Yoga takes us on a riveting tour of unknown yoga that goes from old archives in Calcutta to the world capitals of medical research, from storied ashrams to spotless laboratories, from sweaty yoga studios with master teachers to the cozy offices of yoga healers. Broad unveils a burgeoning global industry that attracts not only curious scientists but true believers and charismatic hustlers. In the end, he shatters myths, lays out unexpected benefits, and offers a compelling vision of how the ancient practice can be improved.
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What listeners say about The Science of Yoga
Average customer ratingsReviews - Please select the tabs below to change the source of reviews.
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- Dean T.
- 02-02-17
Disappointing and biased
The author is frustratingly biased towards a modern yoga with little respect for its Indian roots. He paints an ugly picture of its heritage even stating that traditional Indian yogis were child snatchers and more akin to occultist charlatans than. He makes a mistake early on, after saying he was surprised to learn yoga had many confusing styles and forms, he claims he knew enough to focus on the source of it all, Hatha Yoga! What happened to karma yoga, yama and niyama? Obviously there is no science to be found there. Not a good read if you respect yogas history, more of a insight into the dogmatic fundamentals of a scientific mind who struggles to understand subtleties and has no faith in human wisdom acquired over generations.
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12 people found this helpful
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- Unclepigg
- 26-04-16
Not hugely interesting
Lots of information and history of yoga, some Intersting revelations. However most of the book seems to refer to how yoga "could" do this and that, and the future of yoga "could" be like this or it "could" be like that. The narrative is very monotonous too.
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8 people found this helpful
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- Kate
- 01-02-19
Great book
If you are interested in yoga then this is a great book. Full of really interesting facts.
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3 people found this helpful
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- c
- 04-04-15
thorough and grounded
I enjoyed the overview of the history of yogas evolution and relationship with science. I found it helpful as a keen yoga practitioner. As a Nurse I found the information about risks interesting too.
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3 people found this helpful
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- PB12
- 26-07-14
At last
Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?
Would definitely recommend. I rarely write reviews but this book presents an understandable and interesting summary of research, folklore and history of yoga - beyond the evangelical or heavy approach of others. If you are looking for a clear account of the pros and cons of yoga and an informed view on history and traditions then this is it. Section on injury and teachers credentials really helpful and meant I finally found someone who can safely guide me in the traditions and eight arms of yoga.
What was one of the most memorable moments of The Science of Yoga?
As above and easy to follow
What does Matthew Boston bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you had only read the book?
Personable - understandable-authoritative.
Any additional comments?
Great book!!
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3 people found this helpful
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- G. Pretorius
- 23-12-12
Excellent Information
I loved this book. As someone who has not practised Yoga I thought I would listen to this as a way of making sure what i got myself into. Very useful in pointing out the benefits but also the dangers of Yoga before getting into the practice. I will now think twice and ask some important questions of any instructor before taking a class.
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3 people found this helpful
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- Carel
- 01-12-15
A technical study and reference work
Would you say that listening to this book was time well-spent? Why or why not?
Yes. Lots of information about the history of the various styles with detailed background information.
What was one of the most memorable moments of The Science of Yoga?
The shocking injuries. Who would have imagined yoga could cause strokes!
What aspect of Matthew Boston’s performance might you have changed?
His voice is a little bit of a monotone. I found my attention wandering sometimes.
Do you think The Science of Yoga needs a follow-up book? Why or why not?
No. Unless there are dramatic new findings it seems unlikely to need updating.
Any additional comments?
I would recommend this book as giving a very fair background to yoga. Lots of evidence based studies are quoted. Lots of myths are exposed. The dangers are explained and so are the benefits. It feels very honest.
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2 people found this helpful
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- Miss
- 06-03-13
Good book
Really enjoyed this book, well researched and clearly written covering a wide range if yoga through the last 50 years will definitely recommend it.
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2 people found this helpful
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- Kindle Customer
- 03-07-20
Poor science writing, at times misogynistic
Gave up. Interesting story, terrible communication of science. Tantra chapter explicitly misogynistic: excuses rapists.
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1 person found this helpful
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- Amazon Customer
- 15-01-22
Fascinating and open-minded exploration
As the subtitle tells the listener, this book explores the risks and rewards of yoga in great detail. The author spends the first half of the book exploding myths about yoga such as oxygen uptake in pranayama, but goes on to describe scientific studies into the profound psychological, physical, spiritual, creative and sexual benefits of yoga. It was truly fascinating and very well researched. His goal is to inform the listener to create better yoga.
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