Yoga Studies in Five Minutes

Yoga Studies in Five Minutes provides an accessible guide to the diverse and growing field of research into yoga as a social, historical and cultural phenomenon. Both leading scholars and innovative researchers offer 60 brief responses to questions that offer insights into the study of yoga, such as: -Who was the first teacher of yoga? -Is yoga Indian? -What is paramparā? -Are there holy texts in yoga? -Why do yogis hold their breath?This collection covers ancient history, modern developments, and contemporary issues, considers the diverse practices and philosophies of yoga in a range of contexts, and uses a variety of approaches, from philology to anthropology to art history. Yoga Studies in Five Minutes is an invaluable resource for established scholars looking to broaden their understanding of this rapidly developing field, and for those new to the subject. It is an ideal starting point for both independent study and the classroom.