Conversations on the Science of yoga is an encyclopaedic series presenting the vast, timeless culture of yoga topic by topic through the voice of three generations of master – Swami Sivananda Saraswati, Swami Satyananda Saraswati and Swami Niranjananda Saraswati. jThe teachings are given in questions and answer format with the inclusion of verses from the scriptures, connecting the modern experience with the classical tradition.

Hatha Yoga Book I: an overview introduces the vast field of hatha yoga, laying a foundation for understanding the more specific aspects addressed in subsequent books. It clearly presents hatha Yoga as a profound and holistic science for purification of the physical and energy bodies with the purpose of managing the mind and experiencing higher states of consciousness. Included are: the origins and history of Hatha yoga, Hatha yoga in other cultures; an understanding of the pranic or energy body; the role of hatha yoga in other branches of yoga; and guidelines for hatha yoga practice and lifestyle.

Throughout the wisdom of these master, complete understanding of hatha yoga and a vision for its application in the modern era is interpreted for yoga aspirants around the world.

Preface

CONVERSATIONS ON THE SCIENCE OF YOGA

Conversations on the Science of Yoga is an encyclopaedic series which brings together the collected teachings of two generations of masters - Swami Sivananda Saraswati of Rishikesh, Swami Satyananda Saraswati of Munger. Satsangs given by Swami Niranjanananda Saraswati on his numerous national and international tours also provide the answers to many questions on this vast subject. These luminaries represent a living tradition in which the eternal knowledge and wisdom of yoga has been passed from guru to disciple in a dynamic continuum from the early twentieth century to the first decades of the twenty-first century.

The series consists of sets of books which present the vast, timeless culture of yoga topic by topic, in question and answer format. In this way, complex and profound subjects such as karma yoga, hatha yoga and bhakti yoga, are presented in clear, simple language. These conversations on yoga reflect an ancient and enduring approach to the transmission of wisdom, in which spiritual aspirants seek answers to their questions at the feet of the guru.

Many of the answers also include verses from the various relevant scriptures, connecting the modern experience with the classical tradition. It is through the lives and teachings of the masters that the scriptures are correctly and intuitively interpreted for each generation, ensuring that the light these revelations continues to illumine and inspire the he, and minds of all who aspire for spiritual upliftment.

Conversations on the Science of Yoga has been compiled from the rich archive of satsangs and writings, both publish and unpublished, which is held at the Bihar School Yoga, Munger. The organization of this material into the major branches of yoga and related topics creates a unique interpretation of the classical yogic sciences for the benefit of humanity in the modern era. Deeply founded in tradition the teachings are both systematic and practical, address] the needs of individuals and society at a time when adjustment to constant change is placing unprecedented pressure on people all over the world.