In Yoga for Pain Relief, Stanford psychology instructor and prominent yoga teacher Kelly McGonigal shows readers how the wisdom of yoga and the latest skills drawn from mind-body research can end the physical and emotional suffering of chronic pain.

McGonigal, editor of the International Journal of Yoga Therapy presents a mixture of theory and practice. Within the textual pieces, she explores and explains topics such as the differences among chronic, acute physical, and emotional pain (depression). Wherever possible, she cites written research, although she occasionally talks of wisdom and the practice of mindfulness. With approachable step-by-step instructions and photos—one person standing, the other sitting or doing an alternate pose appropriately if one has pain or physical restrictions—the book also includes individuals’ stories to illustrate practical application and success. The overall tone is gentle and informative. This thorough explanation of specific yoga practices and poses designed for pain relief will best suit those already familiar and comfortable with the purpose and meaning of yoga.

Timothy McCall, medical editor of Yoga Journal and author of Yoga as Medicine, provides a foreword