Review by Vishwanath Iyer
Book review: Why Yogic Physical Culture by Yogacharya Sundaram is the best yoga book
First, the book covers the basics of the practice of asana and pranayama, including aspects such as recommended location, dress, food, etc. Next, it provides detailed instructions for some 17 asanas which Yogacharya Sundaram considers critical and adequate for daily exercise.
Each asana is explained in detail, covering its impact on the body’s muscular, digestive, circulatory, nervous, and endocrine systems. Also, the detailing includes instructions for practice of the asana, health benefits, and precautions to be taken, and content supported by photographs. Hence, it is the best yoga book for beginners as well.
The use of appropriate terminology shows that Sundaram must have conducted enormous research to align medicine, anatomy, and physiology with the practice of asana. Sundaram has presented intermediate poses in addition to the final poses, and this makes the manual easy to use. So, the practitioner can comprehend the process and the final aspiration pose. The level of proficiency exhibited in the photos is very high. In fact, one is struck by a sense of inferiority complex at the perfection of the poses.
Significantly, Sundaram has devoted an entire chapter to women, including photos of ladies performing asanas in Indian sarees. This demonstrates his sagacity and determination to make this practice universally applicable in a conservative society struggling under colonial rule.
Finally, Sundaram has not confined the book to asana alone. He has paid adequate attention to bandhas (holding postures), kriyas (moving poses), and other tertiary asanas, thus making it the best yoga book.
Conclusion
The book Yogic Physical Culture explains everything that one needs to know in order to become proficient in yoga. Undoubtedly, it is the best yoga book for anyone interested in serious asana practice, and it is a must-have in their library. The only aspect which may turn the reader away is the old-fashioned style of writing, which was the vogue in 1920s.
Finally, the level of proficiency exhibited in this book, on the subject of yoga, asana, and pranayama, speaks highly of the author’s interest, sagacity, effort, and commitment to the subject. This is commendable, as Yogacharya Sundaram was only 27 when he published the book.
