Modern Transnational Yoga: The Transmission of Posture Practice

This book explores the social organization of modern yoga practice, comparing why some styles have survived while others have failed. It examines how a small group of yogis organized their practices and practitioners to popularize their styles outside of India, highlighting the overlooked contribution of Sivananda Saraswati. It provides an original perspective on the growth of posture practice and its mainstream globalized practice.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 226 pages
Publication date: 26 September 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This groundbreaking book is the first to delve into the social organization of modern yoga practice as a central focus of investigation, undertaking a comprehensive comparative analysis to explore the reasons behind the success of certain yoga styles while others have dwindled and failed. Through the use of fresh empirical data, the author offers an original perspective on the dissemination of posture practice transnationally by renowned figures such as Krishnamacharya, Sivananda, and their esteemed disciples. Drawing upon extensive archival research and numerous fieldwork interviews conducted in India and the UK, the author examines how the field of yoga we encounter today was shaped by historical decisions regarding its transmission.

The book delves into the specific strategies employed by a small group of yogis to popularize their styles of yoga beyond India's borders. It highlights the overlooked contributions of Sivananda Saraswati (1887-1963), whose early example serves as a cornerstone for the growth of posture practice. By outlining the current organization of yoga practice on a global scale, the book explores how leading brands fit into the broader landscape of modern yoga practice and how historical developments have led to the mainstream globalization of this ancient art form.

This book is of immense interest to researchers in the fields of Yoga Studies, Religious Studies, Hindu Studies, South Asian History, Sociology, and Organizational Studies. It provides valuable insights into the social dynamics and historical developments that have shaped the modern yoga landscape, shedding light on the factors that contribute to the popularity and longevity of certain styles while challenging others.

Weight: 372g
Dimension: 155 x 234 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367530204