Weaving the wisdom of ancient Hindu tales with contemporary analysis and guided meditations, Stories of Our Lives illustrates how these age-old stories teach universal lessons and insights for understanding ourselves today. Passed down for generations, India's puranas consist of ancient tales and epics filled with rich symbolism, beloved characters and deities, and sage lessons for understanding the world. Stories of Our Lives presents a retelling of eight classic tales, along with a detailed analysis of their symbolism and contemporary significance, reflection questions for contemplation, guided meditations, mudras, and mantras. Whether you are a devoted student of the puranas or this is your first introduction to them, you will find something to identify with in these engaging, wisdom-filled stories. TIME-HONORED CLASSICS: Stories of Our Lives includes classic Hindu epics such as the stories of Lakshmi, Durga, Hanuman, and other gods and goddesses. Told with engrossing, eloquent prose, author Janet Stone breathes new life into these time-honored tales EXPERIENCED AUTHOR: A dedicated student of yoga since first traveling to India, the birthplace of her grandfather, Janet Stone has more than 30 years' experience studying Hinduism and more than 20 years' experience as a Vinyasa and Bhakti yoga teacher ANALYSIS & GUIDED MEDITATIONS: Accompanying each tale is an in-depth analysis of the story's major themes and symbols and its contemporary significance. Additionally, to further apply the wisdom of the stories in your own life and spiritual practice, each story includes reflection questions and exercises, guided meditations and movement practices, mudras, and mantras DEEPEN YOUR YOGA PRACTICE: The wisdom and spiritual teachings found within the puranas are inextricably linked to the practice of yoga. Stories of Our Lives provides an opportunity for the beginner yogi to deepen their knowledge of yogic tradition and enhance their practice in the process