Yoga for Warriors: Basic Training in Strength, Resilience & Peace of Mind

After a friend asked yoga expert Birch (Power Yoga)—who was living in New York City on September 11, 2001—if she could help 9/11 victims and their families, Birch was surprised to discover the benefits of yoga for people suffering from PTSD. Noting that even the Department of Defense and Veterans Administration have identified yoga as a tool for managing stress, Birch presents a program tailored to the needs of PTSD sufferers and veterans. Readers will learn the benefits—pain relief, mindfulness, greater relaxation, improved sleep, greater mental clarity, and more—that can come from regular yoga practice; clear instructions for poses are accompanied by photos to ensure proper technique. Novices will appreciate Birch’s admonitions to manage expectations before attempting more challenging poses, while more experienced followers will find guidance for advanced variations. In a calm and patient tone, Birch frequently acknowledges potential fears and stumbling blocks, and encourages readers to push forward. Even readers without PTSD will find this to be a warm and welcoming introduction to an ancient discipline that can yield lifelong benefits. Photos. (Oct.)