Tradition

Balancing Act
Awareness of the ida and pingala nadis can help you develop a balanced practice—and clear the way for your spiritual growth.
By James Bailey

Heroes, Saints, and Sages
Many asanas take their names from Indian mythological figures who had fantastical lives and superhuman powers. Learn their lore to infuse your practice with the extraordinary.
By Colleen Morton Busch

Into the Mystic
Still largely cloaked in mystery, ancient Tibetan yoga practices are slowly being introduced in the West, but teachers remain cautious about revealing their secrets.
By Elaine Lipson

Intro to Yoga Philosophy: Immortal Beloved
Ancient yogis believed inversions could prolong life indefinitely.
By Richard Rosen

Krishnamacharya's Legacy
You may never have heard of him, but Tirumalai Krishnamacharya influenced or perhaps even invented your yoga.
By Fernando Pagés Ruiz

New Light on Yoga
From loincloths to leotards, yoga has come a long way in 5,000 years. But is yoga as we know it really that old?
By Anne Cushman

Oh My Goddess
Invoking your inner goddess isn't a girl thing—it's a chance to tap into the deepest source of empowerment, creativity, and happiness.
By Sally Kempton

Parvati Power
This Hindu goddess, consort of Shiva, proves that dignity and smarts prevail.
By Shoba Narayan

The Eye of the Beholder
The practice of Drishti is a gazing technique that develops concentration—and teaches you to see the world as it really is.
By David Life

The Roots of Vegetarianism
Modern yogis who struggle with the question of whether to eat meat can look to ancient wisdom for the answer.
By Jennifer Barrett

The Truth about Tantra
Promising physical and spiritual ecstasy, Tantra workshops lure couples who want more from their relationships. But what really goes on?
By Todd Jones

Who was Patanjali?
By Richard Rosen

Yoga's Trip to America
Yoga Journal looks back in gratitude to America's yoga pioneers.
By Holly Hammond