Ann Swanson

When I checked this book out of the library, I knew wanted to own this quite spectacular volume. The begins with an introductory anatomy, then there are two or four pages on each asana. Covered are 10 seated asanas, 9 sanding asanas, 5 inversion asanas, and 7 floor asanas. For each asana, there is a so-called Big Picture showing 1) muscles that are engaging,2) muscles engaging while stretching, and 3) muscles that are stretching in different colors. Then there is a smaller skeletal picture show more indicating Alignment. On the second pair of pages, there are other pictures showing different angles along with small diagrams and close-ups of other interesting aspects. The art work is exquisite. As an addendum, padmasana (lotus pose) is not mentioned, probably as it is difficult for people who always sit in chairs and not on the floor. I am able to do lotus fairly easily and there are two theories for my ability: a) the insertion of my femur bones into the hips socket is ideal, or b) I did racewalking for 30 years before taking up yoga. show less