Book excerpt: Get an inside look at the body's muscles at work during yoga Anatomy for Yoga provides an in-depth tour of muscles as you progress through yoga exercises. The detailed four-color anatomical illustrations depict exactly what happens to the body's muscles and skeletal system while performing these incredibly spine-intensive movements. This book is divided into sequences, 10 to 20 poses each, and involve specific stretches/mobilizing for that particular postural imbalance as well as strengthening. The sequences cover an entire routine, which could last from 30 minutes to an hour or longer. In addition, there is a breathing practice and a related meditation practice. You will be able to use the basic skills in the early chapters and, as your abilities develop, apply them to more advanced techniques featured later in the book. Full-color anatomical illustrations that detail the muscles engaged. Gives you the information you need, and shows you exactly what's going on with their body as they exercise. Build a routine custom to their abilities. Topics include: How to Use the Book; Anatomical Definitions and Terminology; Systems of the Body; Body Planes and Regions; Anatomical Terms; Joint Movements; Posture and Muscle Balance; The Spine; Overview of Postural Problems; How Can Yoga Improve Posture?; The Biomechanics of Breath; Meditation and its Benefits; The Chakras; The Practice; Sun Salutation; Kyphosis Posture; Longitudinal Mobilizations; Horizontal Mobilizations; Moving Cats; Shoulder Opener (1-4); Seated Twist; Locust Pose; Back Bridge; Camel Pose; Half Shoulderstand; Corpse Pose; Breathing Practice; Meditation Practice Lordosis Posture; Forward Bend; Yogic Squat; Front Thigh Stretch; Kneeling Hip Flexor Stretch; Warrior 1 Variation 1; Hero Pose; Child's Pose; Plank; Leg Drop; Corpse Pose; Breathing Practice; Meditation Practice; Flat Back Posture; Expanded Leg Forward Bend; Intense Side Stretchl Extended Straight Leg Stretch; Warrior 1 Variation 2; Supine Toe Pose; Boat Pose; Moving Cats; Cobra; Locust Pose; Reclining Twist; Corpse Pose; Breathing Practice; Meditation Practice; Sway-Back Posture; Down Dog; Half Splits; Triangle Pose; Revolved Triangle Pose; Gate Pose; Seated Forward Bend; Boat Pose; Side Plank; Locust Pose 3; Crocodile Pose; Upward Facing Spread Foot Pose; Corpse Pose; Breathing Practice; Mindfulness of Breathing Meditation