Yoga, an ancient practice with millions of modern practitioners, has been the subject of overheated speculation and grandiose claims; it has been dismissed without warrant as well, underappreciated by some who might well benefit from it. The Science of Yoga is a lucid and long overdue account of what scientists have found in their attempts to ferret out the truth about what yoga can and cannot do to heal and make better the body and mind. It is a fascinating and important book.
-Kay Redfield Jamison, author of An Unquiet Mind and Touched With Fire
The Science of Yoga offers a riveting, much-needed, clear-eyed look at the yoga mystique. In this investigation, science journalist William Broad pulls back the curtain on the little-discussed world of yoga injuries and risks, while setting the record straight about the numerous potential benefits. Downward dog will never look the same.
-Daniel Goleman, author of Emotional Intelligence
If this book doesn't motivate you to practice yoga, nothing will. Broad sheds light on yoga's health benefits and hoaxes, covering everything from headstands to hypertension, the vagus nerve to the YogaButt. Finally I understand why I feel so good when I do yoga. His lively exploration of its evolution from Benares to Beverly Hills flows like any great practice should - with intelligence, good humor and some mindblowing insights.
-Priscilla Warner, author of Learning to Breathe - My Yearlong Quest to Bring Calm to My Life and co-author of The Faith Club
After reading The Science of Yoga, I am even more awed by the magnificent complexities of the human body and mind, and astonished that we can exert so much control over this invisible realm through the practice of yoga. Broad has not only thoroughly researched his topic, he has lived it.
-Alan Lightman, author of Einstein's Dreams
William Broad is optimistic and hopeful in pointing the way to its future as a major force in preventing and treating disease.
-Gail Sheehy, author of Passages in Caregiving
In this compelling work of investigative journalism, William Broad exposes the scientific claims made about yoga-from its much-vaunted healing powers to yogasms-to scientific scrutiny. The Science of Yoga is a wonderful read that any yoga practitioner thirsting for authenticity should study carefully before suiting up.
-David Gordon White, author of Kiss of the Yogini
Dramatic...a flair for provocation...valuable.
-Publishers Weekly
