Jasmine Tarkeshi - Yoga Body & Mind Handbook

Copyright 2017 by Jasmine Tarkeshi

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Illustrations 2017 Ryan Johnson

Cover photo Lumina/Stocksy, Author photograph Becca Henry

ISBN: Print 978-1-943451-56-2 | eBook 978-1-943451-57-9

This book is dedicated to my beautiful family,
whose support made writing this book possible,
as well as to my universal family, who I learn
from and practice with daily.

Welcome to your yoga practice. Whether youre new to yoga or rediscovering the practice, this guide will get you on the mat, moving, breathing, and meditating your way to a healthier, happier you.

Yoga is the simplest form of self-healing. I know this from my own experience and what I observe in my students. Almost anyone can enjoy yogas benefits. You dont have to be in perfect shape or change your life to start your practice. You can do it anytime and anywhere. The point of yoga is not perfection. In fact, the first ancient Yoga Sutra says, Atha yoga anushasanam, which means, Now, the practice of yoga begins. The point is simply to begin.

In my yoga journey, Ive found myself beginning again and again. As a dancer, in my teens, I practiced yoga solely for the physical benefits of increased strength and flexibility.

Then in my twenties, when struggling with self-destructive habits and the death of a partner, I took up yoga again by tapping into the mental, emotional, and spiritual benefits it offered. By studying the yogic texts and philosophy, I explored the deeper practices of meditation, pranayama (breathing techniques), and mantra (the repetition of sacred Sankrit sounds). These practices guided me to look within, rather than externally, for the peace and happiness I was searching for.

In my thirties, following hip and knee surgery, I returned for physical healing. My focus shifted toward conscious alignment and the stacking of bones and joints to achieve stability. I learned the blessings and work involved in even the simplest movements like standing, balancing, and sitting. Instead of trying to achieve complicated poses, this stage of my practice was all about having a curious beginners mind and becoming a better teacher by listening.

I began yet again in my forties during pregnancy. Facing bed rest and a C-section, I was grateful for visualization, breathing, and meditative practices that kept me calm and centered. Postpartum healing, emotionally and physically, was slow and challenging, but my practice of acceptance and surrender was constant. As I got stronger and my practice grew more physical again, I snapped right back into pre-pregnancy shapewithout even consciously trying.

A yoga practice isnt static, but rather something that grows with you as your body and mind change. As a busy mom, yoga studio owner, teacher, and writer, I need my practice today more than ever. I might practice for 15 minutes before my toddler wakes up or after she goes to sleep. I can also practice when Im standing in the kitchen or sitting on an airplane. Yoga goes way beyond exercises on the mat. You can practice mindfulness all day long, and bring yoga into everything you do. Practicing yoga can relieve your physical, mental, and emotional tension. It can help you feel your best and live up to your highest potential.

My intention in writing this book is to guide you toward all the blessings of yoga: a tension-free body, a peaceful mind, a joyful spirit, an open heart, and a more authentic and fulfilling life. I start out by walking you through yogas basic philosophy and practices. Then I show you how to adapt this ancient method of self-healing to your life. The book features different poses and routines that incorporate physical, breathing, and meditation exercises. You can mix up these routines to suit your needs and to keep your practice fresh and fun. I also explore ways for you to bring your practice off the mat through more mindful living. Finally, I explain the yogic concept of service and how to take the benefits out into the world.

Yoga has changed my life in so many ways. As a teacher, Ive had the honor of witnessing my students lives similarly transform through yoga. Im excited to offer you the same chance. This book is all you need to start your journey to improved health, happiness, and peace of mind.