Coming Autumn 2026 from Inner Traditions
Breathing: The Art and Science of Pranayama, is inspired by the breath being the awakening, calming, transformative elixir at the heart of yoga.
Starting with the roots of pranayama before the rise of yoga in India, it tells the story of how air becomes breath and is the transformative elixir at the heart of yoga.
Provides detailed guidance on pranayama techniques and their application to yoga practices and life off the mat and in the world.
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In Others' WordsÂ
Richard Rosen
Yoga teacher, author of The Yoga of Breath and Pranayama: Beyond the Fundamentals
“Mark Stephens has written a book on pranayama that is, without exaggeration, the most complete study of this most important practice I’ve ever come across. It would be impossible to summarize its contents in just a few words. Suffice it to say that he extensively covers both the background and the why’s, the how’s, and the ultimate goals of the student’s daily engagement with the practice, both traditional and modern.”
Cyndi Lee
Author, Yoga Body, Buddha Mind, and May I Be Happy
From the Foreword:
“This is a must for students of all kinds to dive into, and a treasure for yoga teachers and yoga therapists to return to again and again with respect for the practice and with an awareness of responsibility for the future of yoga.”
Bernie Clark
Author, The Complete Guide to Yin Yoga
“A masterful, accessible guide to breath and pranayama – spanning ancient traditions and modern science. This book belongs in every yoga teacher’s library.”
David Keil
Author, The Functional Anatomy of Yoga
“Breathing is the rare pranayama book that respects both the tradition and the tissues. Stephens maps breath onto real structures (diaphragm, ribs, pelvic floor) and gives drills that can change mechanics, not just metaphors...If you want breathing practices you can defend in a lab and feel on the mat, this is it."
Adriene Mishlar
International yoga teacher, Yoga with Adriene
“This is a must for students of all kinds to dive into, and a treasure for yoga teachers and yoga therapists to return to again and again with respect for the practice and with an awareness of responsibility for the future of yoga.”
Ganga White
Co-director, White Lotus Foundation, author, Yoga Beyond Belief
“Once again, Mark builds on the wisdom of the past, offering fresh insights and clearly articulated practices that help readers restore balance and harmony to the body, mind, and spirit.”