One Simple Thing

Synopsis

Yoga was created as a science for liberation, but in modern times it is used by many to improve physical and mental health, helping us become more productive at work, more caring in relationships, more responsible contributors to society, and better inhabitants of this planet. If yoga does accomplish all that--as many practitioners report--how exactly does yoga do it? How does yoga work?

Believe it or not, the answers lie in how the human body and mind function. Eddie Stern's One Simple Thing: A New Look at the Science of Yoga and How It Can Transform Your Life explains from both a yogic and a scientific perspective how the human nervous system is wired. It describes the mechanics taking place beneath the surface of our bodies and shows how we can consciously use yogic practices to direct and change our lives in positive ways.

Drawing on modern neuroscience, ancient wisdom, and decades of practice and teaching, Eddie Stern reveals how what we do--from diet to chanting, from postures to meditation, from ethical practices to breathing techniques--affects who we become, and how a steady routine of activities and attitudes can transform our bodies, our brain functions, our emotions, and our experience of life.

Summary

Chapter 1: The Power of One Simple Thing

* Summary:
* The book introduces the concept of "one simple thing," an intentional change you make to improve your life in a specific area.
* Example:
* Setting a goal to exercise for 30 minutes every day.

Chapter 2: Choose Your Simple Thing

* Summary:
* Provides guidance on identifying a simple thing that aligns with your goals and values.
* Suggests focusing on areas that bring you joy, improve your health, or contribute to your personal growth.
* Example:
* Deciding to learn a new language to enhance your career prospects.

Chapter 3: Make It Simple

* Summary:
* Emphasizes the importance of starting small and making the change manageable.
* Encourages breaking down large goals into smaller, achievable steps.
* Example:
* Instead of aiming to run a marathon, setting a target of running 1 mile every day.

Chapter 4: Take Action

* Summary:
* Guides readers on taking immediate action to implement their simple thing.
* Provides strategies for overcoming resistance and building momentum.
* Example:
* Scheduling a daily exercise appointment in your calendar and sticking to it.

Chapter 5: Be Consistent

* Summary:
* Emphasizes the significance of consistency in achieving results.
* Encourages readers to create routines and habits that support the simple thing they have chosen.
* Example:
* Establishing a dedicated time and place for daily language study.

Chapter 6: Measure Your Progress

* Summary:
* Provides tips on tracking and evaluating your progress towards your simple thing.
* Encourages setting realistic expectations and adjusting your approach as needed.
* Example:
* Keeping a log of the number of days you exercised or the amount of time you dedicated to language learning.

Chapter 7: Overcome Obstacles

* Summary:
* Addresses the challenges that may arise during the process of change.
* Offers strategies for dealing with setbacks, staying motivated, and overcoming procrastination.
* Example:
* Anticipating that there will be days when you miss your exercise goal, but not giving up and continuing to work towards the overall objective.

Chapter 8: Find Support

* Summary:
* Highlights the benefits of seeking support from friends, family, or a community.
* Encourages collaboration and sharing experiences to enhance accountability and motivation.
* Example:
* Joining a running group or finding a study partner to support language learning.

Chapter 9: Celebrate Your Success

* Summary:
* Emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and celebrating your achievements along the way.
* Encourages readers to reward themselves for their progress and to appreciate the journey.
* Example:
* Taking time to reflect on the benefits of exercise and language learning, and rewarding yourself with small treats or activities that bring you joy.

Chapter 10: The Ripple Effect

* Summary:
* Explores the transformative power of making one simple thing a habit.
* Highlights how positive changes in one area of life can have a ripple effect on other aspects.
* Example:
* Regular exercise leading to improved physical health, increased energy, and better mood, which positively impacts relationships and productivity.