Yoga Asana Physiology provides a comprehensive understanding of how yoga asanas affect the organs and the physiological systems of the body. Combining modern medical knowledge with the principles of Iyengar Yoga, the book presents complex physiological processes in an accessible and practical way.

The book explores the effects of asanas on:

• the respiratory system

• the cardiovascular system

• the digestive system

• the urinary system

• the reproductive system

• the immune system

• the endocrine system

• the nervous system

Each chapter first explains the anatomy and function of the respective organs, their regulatory mechanisms, and the influence of the musculoskeletal system on them. Particular emphasis is placed on understanding how individual asanas and asana sequences affect physiological processes throughout the entire body.

More than 1000 specially created illustrations make even complex relationships easy to understand and help readers connect the content with their own asana practice. The book distinguishes between classical asanas and supported asanas using props, demonstrating how different approaches to practice can lead to different physiological effects.

With its accessible structure, the book is suitable for readers without prior medical knowledge as well as for experienced yoga teachers and professionals working in medical fields. Its unique contribution lies in bringing together the insights of modern physiology and the principles of Iyengar Yoga, presenting their connections in a clear and systematic way. A concluding chapter written by Claudia Böhm broadens this perspective by introducing the viewpoint of Āyurveda.

About the Author

Dr. Hermann Traitteur is a physician with an orthopedic background, yoga therapist, and long-time Iyengar Yoga teacher. For decades, he has combined medical expertise with yoga practice and has taught anatomy and physiology in Iyengar Yoga teacher training programs. He is a co-founder of the Iyengar Yoga Institute of Berlin and a regular student at the Ramamani Iyengar Memorial Yoga Institute in Pune, India, where he continues to deepen his studies with the Iyengar family.

Book details

Title: Yoga Asana Physiology

Author: Dr. med. Hermann Traitteur

Foreword: Abhijata Iyengar

Pages: 455

Format: Softcover with Swiss binding

Dimensions: 210 × 300 × 35 mm