Freeing the Body, Freeing the Mind: Writings on the Connections between Yoga and Buddhism

Description

In this collection of provocative essays by prominent teachers of Yoga and Buddhism, the common ground of these two ancient traditions becomes clear. Michael Stone has brought together a group of intriguing voices to show how Buddhism and Yoga share the same roots, the same values, and the same spiritual goals. The themes addressed here are rich and varied, yet the essays all weave together the common threads between the traditions that offer guidance toward spiritual freedom and genuine realization. Contributors include Ajahn Amaro Bhikkhu, Shosan Victoria Austin, Frank Jude Boccio, Christopher Key Chapple, Ari Goldfield and Rose Taylor, Chip Hartranft, Roshi Pat Enkyo O'Hara, Sarah Powers, Eido Shimano Roshi, Jill Satterfield, Mu Soeng, Michael Stone, and Robert Thurman.

Michael Stone (1974 - 2017) was a prominent and innovative Buddhist teacher, yogi, psychotherapist, and author. He was the founder and director of the Centre of Gravity Sangha, a community of yoga and Buddhist practitioners based in Toronto, and he taught widely and had a large international following. He was the author of The Inner Tradition of Yoga, Yoga for a World Out of Balance, Freeing the Body Freeing the Mind, and Awake in the World. For more information visit michaelstoneteaching.com.

"An in-depth investigation of the interweaving strands of yoga and Buddhism. Its broad range of perspectives provides a wealth of illuminating insights. A valuable resource."-Joseph Goldstein, author of A Heart Full of Peace and One Dharma "Lucid, wise, and rich with detail, this is a must-read for yogis of all traditions."-Roshi Joan Halifax, author of Being with Dying "For too long in the West we've had the notion that Yoga and Buddhism are two separate, even antagonistic, paths. In this collection of articles by some of our finest Yoga and Buddhist practitioners, Michael Stone demonstrates that the two disciplines share ancient roots, methods, and goals; and that the time has come for us to re-affirm and learn from these old commonalities."-Richard Rosen, author of The Yoga of Breath "This collection marks a crucial step toward mutual understanding between two important Eastern traditions and will bring pleasure and instruction to experienced and novice readers."-Library Journal "What struck me as I finished the book was the depth of the commitment to practice of each of the authors, and their clarity in sharing their wisdom. I read the essays out of order, depending on my mood each day, and when I finished the last one I felt like I had been on an intensive Buddhist Yoga Retreat, led by the authors of these 13 beautiful essays. This book itself was an experience, and, for me, the reading of it became a daily practice."-Wildmind.org "A truly useful, helpful, spiritual guide. The entire book is a spur to practice."-Parabola