"As a mind-body science educator, Ann Swanson specializes in making complex scientific concepts simple and easy to understand. And in this dazzlingly-illustrated, comprehensive guide to how and why yoga works, she masterfully deconstructs more than two dozen basic yoga poses with detailed information on the physical and energetic components. A section on human anatomy explains various systems—including cardiovascular, digestive, and endocrine—and a Q & A section explores common concerns such as chronic pain, stress, and mental well-being. Full disclosure—Ann is a friend and colleague—with extraordinary energy, deep compassion, and a generous heart."

—Carol Krucoff, author of Relax into Yoga for Seniors, review from article on Shepherd.com

“This book is a great illustration of how the muscles work in the yoga practice and how it benefits the body. The illustrations are beautiful. It is easy to follow. It is great for science nerds who love to see the body in motion. I really love this book for beginners and advanced physical practitioners as well.“

—Dianne Bondy,  author of DK book Yoga for Everyone, review from article on Shepherd.com

“Beautifully illustrated book. The artistry and added commentary provided can help the reader more deeply connect to themselves during asana practice and reminds us that yoga is more than a physical practice that can influence all facets of our existence. I recommend this book especially for anyone who would value and enjoy learning about yoga and human anatomy with visual representations.”

—Shelly Prosko, PT, C-IAYT
Co-editor/author of Yoga and Science in Pain Care

“I love the breadth of topics she covers, with an introduction to the many of the systems of the body, amazingly illustrated yoga poses loaded with anatomy and kinesiology concepts…This will be a great resource for curious yoga students of all levels, and a wonderful addition to the reading list for yoga teacher trainings.”

—Baxter Bell, MD, C-IAYT of Yoga for Healthy Aging

"This is the yoga anatomy book I have been waiting for! As a physical therapist and yoga teacher, I am passionate about anatomy as it relates to yoga and often incorporate yoga into treatments with my therapy patients. I also teach anatomy in yoga teacher training programs and this has without a doubt become my top recommended yoga anatomy resource. The illustrations are the most beautiful I've seen... It's appropriate for healthcare professionals with a strong anatomy background and those that are totally new to anatomy!"

—Danielle Nardini, DPT, ERYT

“A must-read for all yoga practitioners who want an easy to read, beautifully laid out introduction to yoga as a science. Ann Swanson skillfully blends wisdom from the yoga texts with basic functional anatomy.”

—Shirley Telles, PhD (Neurophysiology), MBBS, MPhil, DSc (Yoga), Director Patanjali Research Foundation, Yoga Researcher

“Science of Yoga, is situated between Norman Cousins and Oprah Winfrey on my bookshelf. The asana explanations and images are rich in detail and information, but the questions and answers section alone is worth the price of the whole book. Just excellent.”

—Steffany Moonaz, PhD, C-IAYT of Yoga for Arthritis

“This is a wonderful book for all yogis. The author does an excellent job of mixing Western scientific inquiry with traditional meditative practices...I highly recommend this easy-to-read to anyone interested in meditation, mindfulness, and yoga!” ⁣⁠

–Nina Kowalczyk, PhD, RT (R)(QM)(CT), FASRT⁣⁠

“Ann is not only a great writer she is also a researcher and this book demonstrates that. A book like this has long been needed. A book that carefully explains what matters and why without going into unnecessary and often difficult to understand concepts. Highly recommend.”

—Michael Lee, MA, C-IAYT, Founder of Phoenix Rising Yoga Therapy

“Ann’s book allowed me to experience yoga as a new beginner - seeing the impact each pose has on my body anew. The book is laid out in such detail that it is easy to follow each pose while remaining safe. I have been wanting to know the information about the muscles for the 17 years that I have been a student of yoga.“

—Daphne

SCIENCE OF YOGA was ranked as the top #1 Yoga book by ChoosingTherapy.com in their Best Yoga Books for Rest, Relaxation, and Mobility Guide for 2022

“If yoga’s claims for health, mobility, and mental health feel far-fetched, then this anatomy-focused book is here to provide detailed information backed by science. Each asana, or yoga posture, features anatomic diagrams outlining the musculature and physical body of each pose, including blood flow, respiration, and body mechanics.“

“My favorite book of all time! Keep up the good work. I am so proud. Cheers!“

—Pop (my grandfather)

“Highly recommended for young minds! It’s one of the recommended books for a yoga certification that I will be embarking on in the near future. For now, I’m devouring all the knowledge Ann shares in the book. Also incorporating it into my kids’ homeschool life. It’s a great way to spark an interest in how our bodies work. The content can easily be integrated into school curriculums.”

—Sheryl, mama of three homeschoolers and yoga enthusiast

“For those of you looking to nerd out with easy-to-digest anatomical insights, beautiful images of muscles and bones, and applied anatomy in yoga poses you’ll love SCIENCE OF YOGA.

I was graciously sent a copy of the book to review and to be honest, I was super happy when I started exploring the book and it was right up my alley. It’s now on our recommended reading list for the Modern Yoga Teacher Training course.”

—Brea Johnson, @heartandbonesyoga