by Ann Dragon
Michael Stone’s Yoga for a World out of Balance is an engaging and practical book from which I took inspiration. Using the five yamas to divide the book, Stone demonstrates how the principles of Yoga can be articulated within all aspects of modern life and not just when we are posturing on a mat. He challenges the reader to broaden their view of Yoga practice, advocating the need for social action to live in a sustainable and respectful way.
Particularly inspiring is the straightforward way Stone applies Yoga’s ancient wisdom to our modern lives. The ideas presented aren’t new. Rather the way in which they’ve been contextualised to the everyday brings home how important it is for us to act upon them today. For every aspect of our life to play a part in the greater ecological system, Stone suggests two things need to change. First, we need to understand the relationship between our actions and the effects of our actions. Second, once we see the effect of our actions in the human and non-human world, we need practical skills for learning how to make changes. The considered way in which this book is written allows the reader to engage with its content in a non-linear fashion. You can read it from cover to cover, or as I did, mix up chapters depending on where you’re at and what feels most relevant. I would read a chapter, then need some time to pass before reading the next one. It wasn’t however a difficult book to read and I found myself talking about it to others.
Stone’s book was given to me at a time when I was questioning what it means to be a teacher of Yoga. It was a timely gift and I would wholeheartedly recommend it to others wondering how to take that which is imprinted upon us whilst working out upon a mat into our entire life, just as Patañjali intended all along. It’s printed on 100% postconsumer recycled paper by Shambhala Publications.
Ann is the principal teacher at North Perth Yoga Room.