Books That Changed Me: A Reading List from My Heart & Mat
I haven't always considered myself a reader, but it's a habit I've cultivated in recent years. Reading has become a practice that helps me make sense of the world. I find great joy in books that teach, challenge, and inspire me. Below, I’ve gathered some of my all-time favorites, divided into two categories: the books that shaped my yoga teacher training journey, and those that found their way to me by other means.
Yoga Teacher Training Reads
These books were foundational during my 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training and continue to influence how I live, teach, and connect to others.
This book changed how I live my life, for the better. Its teachings are simple, but profound: be impeccable with your word, don’t take anything personally, don’t make assumptions, and always do your best. When I embody these agreements, I move through life with more kindness, gentleness, and peace.
This is a wonderful introduction to the ethical and philosophical foundations of yoga. Adele brings ancient wisdom into modern-day living, making these principles accessible both on and off the mat.
Lasater’s approach is beautifully human. She reminds us that yoga isn’t just what happens on the mat; it’s how we show up in our relationships, respond to challenges, and connect to ourselves and others. This read is practical and insightful, loaded with key takeaways and inspired activities to help you engage in everyday life.
This might be my favorite required reading from teacher training. Bachman takes the complex teachings of Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras and breaks them down in a way that feels both approachable and transformative. It helped me connect so many dots in my personal and spiritual journey.
Raw, real, and deeply moving, this memoir-meets-manifesto blends the story of one woman’s healing with the teachings of yoga. Seane Corn doesn’t shy away from the hard stuff (trigger warning for abuse, trauma, and addiction), but she always brings it back to the heart of yoga. This one is intense, but powerful.
Other Finds
These books didn’t come from a syllabus, but found me through a variety of means, and have stayed with me long after I turned the last page.
A beautiful book to keep close by. With short daily readings, this book offers gentle wisdom and encouragement to guide your day and your inner journey.
This book blew me away. It tells the story of Henrietta Lacks, whose cells unknowingly became the cornerstone of modern medical research. It sheds light on racism, medical ethics, and the human cost of scientific advancement. Deeply important and eye-opening. This read will open your eyes to the woman who changed everything.
My favorite book of all time. If you love plants, nature, or the intersection of science and Indigenous wisdom, this book will feel like a homecoming. Kimmerer writes with such reverence and grace that it’s both poetic and scientific. I think every human should read it.
This one was a spontaneous find at a local bookstore, and I’m so glad it came home with me. Salguero breaks down core Buddhist teachings in a way that’s digestible, non-dogmatic, and thought-provoking. If you’re curious about Buddhist philosophy without the fluff, this is a great place to start.
Science-based and incredibly practical, this book has been life-changing for me. I’m slowly working through it, one chapter at a time, and building habits that actually stick. It’s the kind of book that empowers you to build a life that supports who you’re becoming.
Whether you’re a fellow yoga teacher, a lifelong learner, or simply looking for your next great read, I hope this list gives you a few ideas for your bookshelf. I'd love to hear what books have changed your life, too.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you choose to purchase them, at no additional cost to you. I only share books I truly love and hope they bring value to your life as they have to mine. Thank you for supporting my work in this way!
