The daily practice of Ashtanga Yoga has made me physically, emotionally, and mentally healthy. I am very grateful. When I first started practicing I wished I had a handbook that answered basic questions, encouraged me on how to go about those first classes, guided me on whether to travel to Mysore or not, and answered questions I had. Recently someone who has been attracted to this style of yoga asked me if I could provide such a guide because he said: "it all felt very intimidating from the perspective of a beginner." I completely related. That is how this book was born. It is the book I wish I had back then.