Includes bibliographical references and index.

Prologue -- Health -- Fit perfection -- Moods -- Risk of injury -- Healing -- Divine sex -- Muse -- Epilogue.

This book draws on more than a century of painstaking research to present the first impartial evaluation of a practice thousands of years old. It celebrates what's real and shows what's illusionary, describes what's uplifting and beneficial and what's flaky and dangerous- and why. William Broad, a lifelong practitioner, illuminates how yoga can life moods and inspire creativity. He also exposes moves that can cripple and kill. As science often does, this groundbreaking book reveals a fascinating body of evidence that raises questions about whether humans have latent capabilities for entering states of suspended animation and unremitting sexual bliss. The author takes us on a riveting tour of unknown yoga that goes from old archives in Calcutta to the world capitals of medical research, from storied ashrams to spotless laboratories, from sweaty yoga studios with master teachers to the cozy offices of yoga healers. Broad unveils a burgeoning global industry that attracts not only curious scientists but true believers and charismatic hustlers. In the end, he shatters myths, lays out unexpected benefits, and offers a compelling vision of how the ancient practice can be improved. -- from Book Jacket