
Member Reviews

There is no disputing that Pranayama Lost in Translation has a meaningful goal, to reconnect Western yoga practitioners with the deeper roots of pranayama by returning to the classical Yogic texts. As someone who values the historical and spiritual context of yoga, I appreciated the author's effort to highlight the tradition’s rich lineage and the call to remember its origins.
However, I found the execution underwhelming. Much of the book consists of lengthy quotes and references from other texts, with limited original interpretation or integration. Resources varied from original Indian scriptures to today's popular magazines. This made the writing feel somewhat unpolished, and the structure made it difficult to stay engaged. While the author’s experience is evident, the insights often get lost in repetition or lack of clarity.
That said, this book may serve as a helpful entry point for beginners looking for a curated overview of scriptural references or for those seeking titles for further study. Unfortunately, it may hold more value as a reference tool or introductory companion, than as a standalone exploration.
Thanks to NetGalley and Jessica Kingsley Publishers for the advance reader copy.