The Gheranda Samhita Summary and Reviews

The Gheranda Samhita
by James Mallinson

The Gheranda Samhita
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Book Summary Information

Author: James Mallinson
Edition: Paperback
Audio: English (Unknown); English (Original Language); English (Published)
Published: 2004-12-15
ISBN: 0971646635
Number of pages: 144
Publisher: YogaVidya.com
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Book Reviews of The Gheranda Samhita

Book Review: A Sublime Ocean of Nectar and an Island of Jewels
Summary: 5 Stars

This is some of the flowery language of the aspiring yogi "To visualize a sublime ocean of nectar in his heart, with an island of jewels in its middle whose sand is made of gemstones." The asanas (poses or body positions) in the Gheranda Samita are some of the most advanced; from the lotus to the headstand in lotus to the Mayurasana, where you hold your body prone, elevated on your hands alone. This is supposed to improve digestion and detoxify the body.

The Ghermanda Samita, as translated by James Mallinson, is a valuable reference for serious students of yoga. There are the seven chapters, corresponding to the seven ways to perfect onself, from physical practices and health to meditation and enlightenment (samahdi) at the end.

In addition to photos of the asanas next to the text that discusses them, the chapter on Dhyanas (meditations) has some visually stunning paragraphs. These could be of help to someone who is meditating and needs a kernel of something to focus on, or even an artist who wants to tap a side of the unconscious with visual meditations.

There is also a chapter on yogi breathing, and from what I am told, one can never have enough information on this important aspect of practicing yoga.

This is a relatively late work of Hatha Yoga (from the 1800's?) and is translated as directly from the Sanskrit as the author was able, while retaining the meaning and beauty of the passages. If you are a student of yoga, this is a valuable source book and quite interesting reading, as well.

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