The Science of Yoga

The Risks and Rewards

By: William J. Broad

Narrated by: Matthew Boston

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.

©2012 William J. Broad (P)2012 Audible, Inc.

Started strong, then went downhill

Chapters 1-3 are really good, shedding light on the history of yoga as well as scientific insight about the benefits.
The second half of the book is not nearly as good, as broad goes out on a limb time and time again - making claims without much scientific basis. The chapters on injury, healing, sexual drive and creativity all lack the substance shown in the first half of the book.
Still a good read to any interested to yogi and yogini.

all exercise/health books should be like this

An impressive amount of analytics to dispel myths and help you understand the good and the bad of yoga. Written in an authoritative matter, it is a must-read for anyone practicing or considering yoga.

Evidence based review of yoga

Yoga is a lucrative industry. Miracle claims are made by people who benefit by making them. It is useful to sort out where the truth lies. This book is a good place to start.

I have heard long time yogis complain that weight loss is hard. This book explains why. Yoga decreases your metabolism. Adding yoga to your lifestyle all else held equal (like continuing to eat the same), yoga will cause you to gain weight. This is really important to know. My friend complaining about weight loss was putting in more effort by adding more yoga. This tells you more yoga wont do it. Cut calories from your diet and add some other exercise.

Similarly with fitness. A 10 minute run will increase your fitness more than an additional hour of yoga. Good to know.

Based on the chapter about the dangers, I will be personally cutting some asanas from my practice.

The sex thing is interesting. The last chapter on creativity you can skip. I'm glad I listened to it.

Good look at yoga in context

I’ve practiced yoga for many years & enjoyed this insight into yoga’s history. It was a great book to hear on audible. However I was a little disappointed on the choice of narrator…. I felt there was a slight mismatch between content & narration.

First yoga book you should read.

I picked this book knowing nothing of yoga and though not a how to guide, I now know where to start and what to look for in a guide.