Fallen Star: A Return to Self through the Eight Limbs of Yoga

by Molly Chanson, Stephen Cope (Foreword)

After being married for ten years and having two children, author and yogi Molly Chanson lives with a nagging feeling that something is wrong. Her suspicion that her husband is having an affair is further complicated by her addiction to alcohol, poor body image, and a lost sense of self. Having first practiced yoga with her mother as a child, Chanson returns to a daily practice and discovers the profound impact that yoga can have on one's physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Fallen Star is Chanson’s account of her far-reaching journey of healing guided by Patanjali’s Eight Limbs of Yoga, which includes asana (poses), pranayama (breath), and meditation, as well as self-discipline, surrender, and more. Chanson shows how the tenets of ancient yoga philosophy can be applied to a broad spectrum of experiences shared by women, ranging from dating, marriage, and motherhood to loss of identity and focus on one's appearance. Here are lessons for women who seek to unravel stories and pain that have prevented them from living a complete and fulfilled life, to find their true selves, and to awaken to new possibilities. Here is a story about tapping into the resilience, courage, and hope lying deep within the human spirit.

279 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 25, 2022

Reviews

[Liz · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a beautifully written memoir and testimony to the healing power of yoga and the resilience of the human spirit. Although I knew how Molly’s story would end, I felt like I was reading a novel - I couldn’t put it down. I have a feeling I will be returning to the wisdom of this book - and to my yoga mat - again and again!

[jimena ballen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing and profound book!

I am so grateful for reading Molly’s book. It’s not only an excellent way to teach us the 8 limbs of Yoga, but also the way that she integrates her vulnerable story with the asanas , pranayama and all the healing that we can go through connecting with this beautiful discipline. I felt all my body connected to her book, emotionally, mentally and also physically; like in my own path. Totally Recommended

[Bradley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful. Honest. Courageous. Chanson’s meditative memoir is a lesson in compassionately noticing oneself. The best way I can describe this book is that it’s like the Hindenburg discovering that it is a phoenix.

[Anita O'brien · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was recommended to read this book by a friend. It was in interesting recount of one woman’s healing journey after a failed marriage using yoga and meditation. I will be honest, I skimmed those parts not being big on either of those activities but the story kept me interested.