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The Women's Health Big Book of Yoga: The Essential Guide to Complete Mind/Body Fitness
From Women's Health contributor and yoga expert Kathryn Budig-the essential, authoritative guide to yoga, for beginners and beyond.Approximately 16 millions Americans now practice yoga on a regular basis. Devotees can't rave enough about this ancient art of meditation, breathing, and physical postures that calms the mind and slims the body. Unlike fitness fads, yoga is worth the hype. The postures stretch and tone lean muscle mass and sculpt a strong and slender physique-burning up to 400 calories in a 90-minute session. But yoga does something even better. It's proven to reduce the biggest cause of weight gain-stress-which 43% of Americans say makes them overeat. This definitive volume every essential pose to help readers lose weight and transform their bodies- Total Body targeted workouts in 15 minutes or less- core-strengthening routines for hotter, more satisfying sex- a healthy, mindful eating plan centered around calming, cleansing foodsCovering everything from basic postures to relaxation techniques to avoiding common injuries, The Women's Health Big Book of Yoga is the only guide readers need to achieve their fittest, healthiest, happiest selves.
801 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2012
77 people are currently reading
342 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
April 3, 2026
A wonderful guide with great illustrations and pictures to guide me on my own journey with yoga.
November 4, 2012
If you have Tara Stiles' Slim Calm Sexy Yoga or Yoga Cures (I've both and love them, too), this new release is similar to those. I can't afford yoga classes and started my yoga practice by following yoga DVDs borrowed from the library. Then I got Slim Calm Sexy Yoga and realized I enjoy and am more consistent in my yoga practice following practices in book form. The language is clear, informal, not too new-agey, and the photography is beautiful. Yoga Cures is in black and white (which lessens its appeal to me a bit), but I enjoy its shorter practices for specific problems if I'm feeling unwell but want to spend a few minutes doing something good for myself.
The Women's Health Big Book of Yoga is gorgeous, and the author excels at making you feel comfortable within the world of yoga, which can intimidate with its spiritual aspect and daunting words and poses. It, too, has practices for everyday health issues--emotional, physical, and sexual--and practices designed for devotees of different sports/exercise (for example: tennis, basketball, running). It also promotes the importance of deep breathing and meditation. Incorporating these two practices with yoga have improved my life immeasurably. Highly recommended.
The Women's Health Big Book of Yoga is gorgeous, and the author excels at making you feel comfortable within the world of yoga, which can intimidate with its spiritual aspect and daunting words and poses. It, too, has practices for everyday health issues--emotional, physical, and sexual--and practices designed for devotees of different sports/exercise (for example: tennis, basketball, running). It also promotes the importance of deep breathing and meditation. Incorporating these two practices with yoga have improved my life immeasurably. Highly recommended.
May 19, 2019
My gramma found this book at a garage sale and gave it to me. It seems really well written with alot of information with good clear pictures.
January 3, 2013
I am an intermediate yoga practitioner - I often do it in my home and rarely join a formal class setting. As a result, I was looking forward to this book because I thought that it might allow me to get some great routines and new ideas for my practice.
I loved the images - the colors are bright, and the poses are clear. The book is broken down in sections with the first going through various poses, and the second one arranged according to what you are looking to get out of your practice (i.e. relaxation, back pain, PMS, etc.). I appreciate the various routines, but found that it lacked transitions - there isn't a clear guide how to go from pose to pose and that is a big part of what makes yoga so effective. I liked the variety of poses, but found that adding additional details about the transitions and in-between steps would have helped.
I also found it strange that Women's Health had a man doing some of the yoga routines - it didn't seem like the right setting. I understand that men do yoga, but since this is a Women's Health book, it was a bit odd and unnecessary. From shelfishness.blog.com
I loved the images - the colors are bright, and the poses are clear. The book is broken down in sections with the first going through various poses, and the second one arranged according to what you are looking to get out of your practice (i.e. relaxation, back pain, PMS, etc.). I appreciate the various routines, but found that it lacked transitions - there isn't a clear guide how to go from pose to pose and that is a big part of what makes yoga so effective. I liked the variety of poses, but found that adding additional details about the transitions and in-between steps would have helped.
I also found it strange that Women's Health had a man doing some of the yoga routines - it didn't seem like the right setting. I understand that men do yoga, but since this is a Women's Health book, it was a bit odd and unnecessary. From shelfishness.blog.com
January 5, 2013
I asked for this for Christmas. I adore Kathyrn Buddig for so many reasons... she is cute and funny and I absolutely LOVE her instructions. She will get you into a headstand or arm balance where others do not, and you will do it safely. This book covers everything from yoga philosophy to each asana (posture), to sequencing 20 minute practices for different ailments. So she makes it really accessible to everyone, in my opinion. Philosophy is rather light, but that's okay!! Overall, this is a book that makes me happy!
August 15, 2015
Borrowed from the library, read in 3 days, ordered a copy to own from Amazon. Enough said. :)
July 28, 2021
Quick Takeaway: If you're choosing between Tara Stiles or Kathryn Budig on the Women's Health yoga books, go with this one. The pose breakdown with modifications is much better with this one. I also think it has a much healthier view of yoga overall.
The Women's Health books are like the magazines: colorful, well designed, and written to be engaging. They use high-quality glossy paper and the books hold up well.
I'm a fan of Kathryn Budig from her early days. I think she's moved away from yoga and more toward cooking in the past several years, but that doesn't detract from her two books on yoga.
This book includes early chapters on the eight limbs of yoga, which include the Yamas and Niyamas. Even if you don't care to learn yoga terms in Sanskrit, think of it this way: it's like learning ballet poses in French, making it a universal language for ballet. If you learn the Sanskrit terms for poses, it allows you to drop in on yoga studio classes. I've been in too many gym yoga classes where people make up names for yoga poses. The big one? Ahimsa, which is nonviolence, and it can be viewed as doing no harm to yourself when doing yoga - leave your ego at the door and listen to your body.
She also provides a list of yoga props you can use, as well as substitutes you might have lying around. Props are your friend. I have short arms, so blocks and straps are a huge help to me in my yoga practice.
She covers types of yoga, so if someone says, "I don't like yoga," I tell them that yoga is like food - there are many "flavors."
For new to yoga types, I always say this - don't do inversions at home until you know what you are doing. Work with a skilled teacher if you are interested in inversions. Otherwise, do legs up the wall for a home inversion because it has all of the benefits and none of the risks.
It has 13 chapters with eight chapters of poses for specifics: essentials, health, athletes, emotional health, hormones, moms, and sex.
The other five chapters are great introductions to yoga, including mindful eating and the concluding chapter "Yoga for Life."
Topics covered include mudras (hand poses), and chakras (energy centers) types of yoga.
If you're new to yoga, this is a great introduction. However, I still encourage you to find a yoga studio or class you like so that you can learn from a skilled yoga teacher. While this book is geared toward women, much of the information in it is applicable toward men, too.
The Women's Health books are like the magazines: colorful, well designed, and written to be engaging. They use high-quality glossy paper and the books hold up well.
I'm a fan of Kathryn Budig from her early days. I think she's moved away from yoga and more toward cooking in the past several years, but that doesn't detract from her two books on yoga.
This book includes early chapters on the eight limbs of yoga, which include the Yamas and Niyamas. Even if you don't care to learn yoga terms in Sanskrit, think of it this way: it's like learning ballet poses in French, making it a universal language for ballet. If you learn the Sanskrit terms for poses, it allows you to drop in on yoga studio classes. I've been in too many gym yoga classes where people make up names for yoga poses. The big one? Ahimsa, which is nonviolence, and it can be viewed as doing no harm to yourself when doing yoga - leave your ego at the door and listen to your body.
She also provides a list of yoga props you can use, as well as substitutes you might have lying around. Props are your friend. I have short arms, so blocks and straps are a huge help to me in my yoga practice.
She covers types of yoga, so if someone says, "I don't like yoga," I tell them that yoga is like food - there are many "flavors."
For new to yoga types, I always say this - don't do inversions at home until you know what you are doing. Work with a skilled teacher if you are interested in inversions. Otherwise, do legs up the wall for a home inversion because it has all of the benefits and none of the risks.
It has 13 chapters with eight chapters of poses for specifics: essentials, health, athletes, emotional health, hormones, moms, and sex.
The other five chapters are great introductions to yoga, including mindful eating and the concluding chapter "Yoga for Life."
Topics covered include mudras (hand poses), and chakras (energy centers) types of yoga.
If you're new to yoga, this is a great introduction. However, I still encourage you to find a yoga studio or class you like so that you can learn from a skilled yoga teacher. While this book is geared toward women, much of the information in it is applicable toward men, too.
September 19, 2017
Loads of good instructions, sequences, information about yoga and how to start classes etc. and not too 'yoga' fundamental preachy. Some good sequences to follow, but many may be a little too hard for beginners. Sequences include both simple ones like sun salutations and those to help with stress and health. Great book for intermediate yogis.
July 25, 2018
Ausführliche Anleitungen, viele verschiedene Übungsfolgen für Anfänger und Fortgeschrittene. Geht auf allerlei Frauenthemen ein: Schwangerschaft, PMS, Wechseljahre, etc.
Rezension auf meinem Blog: https://nouw.com/cwidmann/kathryn-bud...
Rezension auf meinem Blog: https://nouw.com/cwidmann/kathryn-bud...
July 3, 2018
I like how the book/manual demonstrates the positions in pictorial images and categorizes them by types - i.e. inversion, salutation, etc. The positions are easy to follow on your own.
July 20, 2018
I absolutely love this book and have bought copies for many of my friends and loved ones. It has really helped me deepen my practice. I especially love the 15 minute routines she put together.
December 30, 2018
This inspiring, comprehensive guide is an incredibly engaging read. Kathryn's writing is authentic and her sequences inspire my practice.
September 21, 2021
Good descriptions and photos. Useful information
December 12, 2013
An essential resource for both new and experienced Yogis (Men: don’t be fooled by the title, you can benefit from this book too). I was introduced to Kathryn Budig’s unique yoga approach through her classes on yogaglo.com. When I discovered she had teamed up with WOMEN’S HEALTH to create THE WOMEN’S HEALTH BIG BOOK OF YOGA: THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO COMPLETE MIND/BODY FITNESS, I had to check it out. Everything is covered in this handy book: yoga history, the benefits of a regular practice, yoga sequences to remedy all types of moods and ailments, and healthy eating advice. Other prominent yoga instructors are featured as well.
Feeling miserable after an argument? Suffering from last night’s bar crawl? No problem! Kathryn’s advice will have you feeling great in no time! THE WOMEN’S HEALTH BIG BOOK OF YOGA is written in a down-to-earth tone with a sense of humor that anyone can relate to. The illustrations of the poses are excellent and concise. It’s like having Kathryn right next to you as you move through your stances.
Feeling miserable after an argument? Suffering from last night’s bar crawl? No problem! Kathryn’s advice will have you feeling great in no time! THE WOMEN’S HEALTH BIG BOOK OF YOGA is written in a down-to-earth tone with a sense of humor that anyone can relate to. The illustrations of the poses are excellent and concise. It’s like having Kathryn right next to you as you move through your stances.
January 30, 2016
I have recently become more interested in yoga and was following along with short and small beginner's yoga routines on YouTube for a couple of weeks. I was quite enjoying myself and wanted to learn more than what the short videos were teaching me.
I picked up this book on sale at my local bookstore. I would have picked it up if it weren't on sale, either.
It is a very comprehensive book of many different poses with explanations on how to do them as well as variations if you need or want to modify them. Once you have a good understanding of the basic poses it also takes you through several routines for all sorts of things. It has been broken down into what routine would help with what particular ailment or need or want that you have at just about any given time.
There are side notes, anecdotes, stories, tips, and tricks all throughout the book that give you more insight into the current topic at hand.
All in all I would recommend this book to anyone interested in yoga, trying yoga, learning more about yoga, or furthering your yoga understanding and/or education.
I picked up this book on sale at my local bookstore. I would have picked it up if it weren't on sale, either.
It is a very comprehensive book of many different poses with explanations on how to do them as well as variations if you need or want to modify them. Once you have a good understanding of the basic poses it also takes you through several routines for all sorts of things. It has been broken down into what routine would help with what particular ailment or need or want that you have at just about any given time.
There are side notes, anecdotes, stories, tips, and tricks all throughout the book that give you more insight into the current topic at hand.
All in all I would recommend this book to anyone interested in yoga, trying yoga, learning more about yoga, or furthering your yoga understanding and/or education.
January 10, 2023
I love this book. I frequently incorporate her various flows into my home practice and I think it's a great reference guide for beginner and more advanced yogis alike. I also don't think you have to be a woman to enjoy this book, despite it being from Women's Health magazine. There are certain female-specific sections (like a flow to help combat PMS, for example), but most of it is applicable across the board.
July 21, 2013
A very illustrative and colourful book but with too few step by step visual instructions for beginners and intermediates. Might be dangerous if they attempt some of the more advanced poses without visual guides. Nevertheless, the book have some interesting information in which I think yoga lovers should check out. Just don't think it is a worthy new buy. If possible, lend it from your local library or buy it secondhand.
February 23, 2013
It was good but a little too shallow in the department of teaching you how to really approach and appreciate the teachings of yoga practice. However the illustration and series of movement flowed smoothly when put into practice, but if this is the first time you do yoga then the flow would not make sense because it missing movements like vinyasa between each sequence.
January 24, 2013
Layout well organized, directions for incorporating poses for various health issues, bright pictures and interesting bios for those pictured in the book. Good book for beginner and/or intermediate yoga practitioner.
March 30, 2016
Buy it. Great reference book. Perfect to keep at home to check poses, follow yoga routines. It's not really for reading. It's perfect for reference: color photos of poses with descriptions on technique. Very little writing or text. it's got suggested routines for back pain, stress etc.
December 7, 2012
Loved this book. All of my favorite yoginis in one place! It's so beautiful and colorful.
December 3, 2012
Loved this book!
July 19, 2013
This book has lots of great photos showing various poses, but it's too bulky to really be useful. It doesn't stay open so you can't, for example, reference it as you actually do the poses.
September 10, 2013
Great beginner book - she's fun, light and easily read.
September 25, 2013
Yoga for blemishes, OMG. But it has nice and bright pictures :)
Read it to test Oyster.
Read it to test Oyster.
November 13, 2013
The book is a very good for beginners. There are nice pictures for the poses and a good start for those who have not had a lot of yoga.
January 29, 2014
Really awesome book detailing everything yoga. It's inspiring, it's helpful, and it's easy to use! Pretty as a coffee table book, helpful as a cookbook!
April 5, 2014
A complete yoga book, it covers every question you could ever think of about yoga and more! This book is also packed with workouts galore. An amazing yoga book, I'm so glad I bought this one :)
September 23, 2020
I think technical aspects of yoga doesn't get taught-- i use this as a reference sometimes. ofcourse, deepening the connection between body and breath is better taught by a teacher.
February 1, 2015
So good. Yoga for everything and everyone.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews