Fierce Medicine

By: Ana T. Forrest

Narrated by: Ana T. Forrest

Length: 11 hrs and 45 mins

Publisher's Summary

As the creator of Forrest Yoga, Ana T. Forrest has been transforming people's lives throughout the world for more than 35 years. Her unique blend of physical practice, Eastern wisdom, and profound Native American ceremony takes her teachings literally off the mat and into daily life - to heal everything from addictive behaviors and eating disorders to chronic pain and injury. In Fierce Medicine, Forrest tells her own story of healing from the scars of abuse and physical handicaps, and reveals the proven practices that enabled her to move beyond her past into a life committed to helping others reconnect with their bodies, cultivate balance, and start living in harmony with their Spirits.

In her unique, powerful, and inviting voice, Ana Forrest reveals how to:

• Learn to stalk fear and break free from it instead of running from it.
• Be attentive to your body, discovering its own inherent healing properties.
• Speak and act from a place of honesty and compassion.
• Cultivate an open heart that is feeling, responsive, and reflexive and able to embrace change.
• Harness your intuition and the courage to live in alignment with your Spirit.

Whether you've never done yoga or are a seasoned practitioner, Ana Forrest's practices, stories, and exercises will help you uncover your own warrior's heart. With this wise woman as your trusted guide, you, too, can become centered, strong, and more alive than ever before.

Download the accompanying reference guide.

©2011 Ana T. Forrest (P)2013 Harper Collins Publishers

Autobiography of an Ego

Any additional comments?

It is important to note that this book is basically an autobiography. If you come to it looking for information on how to integrate yoga, Eastern wisdom, and profound Native American ceremony, you will be disappointed. By perhaps a quarter of the way into the book or more, the only mention of using Native American ceremony was that of sitting in a circle and passing a "truth stick" around. As it turns out, any information about Native Americans was basically that Ana lived with a tribe for a while and was taken under the wing of a medicine man.

There isn't anything terribly wrong with this book being an autobiography. Neither sacred ceremony nor physical yoga translates well to books (and especially to audiobooks), anyway. But for those actually interested in this topic and are looking for a "how to," I would save your money on this book and buy: "Sacred Ceremony: How to Create Ceremonies for Healing, Transitions, and Celebrations," by Steven Farmer. If you are interested in yoga and Eastern wisdom, I would highly recommend: "The Lost Teachings of Yoga," by Georg Feuerstein or "A Life Worth Breathing," by Max Strom.

As an autobiography, this is a page turner in a similar sense to how driving by an auto accident on the interstate is a head turner. I'm not saying it isn't interesting because it is. However, never, and I mean never, have I been so thankful for having a "normal," boring and uneventful life as when I finished this book. I actually wasn't even in this state after finishing Katherine Boo's, "Behind The Beautiful Forevers."

Fair warning should also be given here, too. The audiobook is certainly not something that can be listened to with children around because of language, sexual situations, and drug and alcohol use. Ana also, as mentioned by other reviewers, totally throws out sacred teachings on nonviolence.

The book's saving grace was the rather interesting time that Ana spent in India, as well as butting heads with the late B.K.S. Iyengar while there. If it had not been for this section of the book, there really wouldn't have been much left to recommend. However, this was interesting and well worth hanging in there for.

The bottom line is, the book is a weird, mixed bag with just enough interesting tidbits to keep the pages turning...but turn they did, so there is certainly some merit to the book

8 of 9 people found this review helpful

Amazing!

Would you listen to Fierce Medicine again? Why?

Amazingly well told story, with lots of helpful transformational tools.

What did you like best about this story?

Her life story is fascinating, and the story is well told and incorporates the tools to transform your own life really well.

What about Ana T. Forrest’s performance did you like?

She is a very accomplished storyteller. The way she narrates is like you are there with her.

2 of 2 people found this review helpful

Rockstar Yogi Shares Sacred Teachings

If you could sum up Fierce Medicine in three words, what would they be?

Fierce Medicine is a diamond filled with Brilliant reflections, sacred teachings and unforgettable experiences. Ana T. Forrest, Rockstar yogi, healer, and Medicine Woman, reads her story with Beauty and Eloquence. In her earlier career, she was a world class horse trainer. Her strategic perspective seemed to be a philosophy used in show jumping. When approaching a challenging obstacle, one proceeds in a manner known as "throw your heart over". With this work, she takes that leap and soars amongst supernovas.

What other book might you compare Fierce Medicine to and why?

Steve Jobs by Walter Isaacson is similar because both Ana and Steve are ahead of their time in their respective fields. They both "think different." Their challenges evolve into opportunities rather than obstacles. They reject what did not work and moved into new, uncharted waters for what did. Basically, they are both pioneers in their fields.

Which scene was your favorite?

There are many scenes that resonate. Ana's time in India, which was a crucial turning point for her personally and professionally, explains the roots of her teaching philosophy.
Her work and relationship with horses was very informative as well. The connected nature of life and love and trust was very well delineated.

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

There are many poignant moments. How Ana got up each day and continued to learn, grow, and later to teach is inspiring and touching. I salute and admire her work and her lessons.

Any additional comments?

Listening to Ana's reading is a blessing. Breathe deeply as you drink it in. Listen in Beauty to the life and work of a leader and a living legend.

2 of 2 people found this review helpful

Storytelling through yoga poses

I am enchanted by the skill of the storytelling Ana is delivering, so much knowledge and experience. I also aporeciate the usefull tips, like giving specific examples on little steps, the open fact that spiritual way is not just peace, love and shining dinamonds unicorns as some sell it nowdays. It is tough work on yourself but if you are willing to do it than your seed will flourosh.

1 of 1 people found this review helpful

Beauty

Ana's story is so wise and beautiful and I am incredibly grateful she shared it. 🙏🏻

1 of 1 people found this review helpful

Fantastic and Fierce Book

Would you consider the audio edition of Fierce Medicine to be better than the print version?

For me yes. I travel for work so it was a way for me to listen while I drive and fly. Also easy to go back and listen to favorite chapters. I read the book years ago, still have it and now it has so much more meaning for me. I love my books but find I do better with audible. I can listen on my cell, in my car or on my computer. Love it!

What was one of the most memorable moments of Fierce Medicine?

I grew up in So California and grew up at a stable so there is so much I identified with. Definitely horses were my first and best friends. This time around it really hit me on how there were people in her life that saw value in her and how much she overcame. I mean she has been through so much and got through it. She talked about people who shoot emotional arrows at others. So much truth in what she says. I really liked when the deer came and gave her a name.

What about Ana T. Forrest’s performance did you like?

I liked her honesty and transparency. I liked her truthfulness about famous Guru types. I liked that she teaches and shares what has worked for her. She is very real. She was easy to listen to and kept my attention.

If you were to make a film of this book, what would the tag line be?

Heartbreaking, Fierce and Awesome...I do hope she makes a movie of this book. Would love to hear more about what she learned on the reservation. Healing modalities.

Any additional comments?

I take her online yoga and ceremony classes. I highly recommend them. She has a way to encourage people to overcome and let them know they can do it! A no BS kind of person. I highly recommend her book on Audible. Really enjoyed it.

1 of 1 people found this review helpful

hope filled, doable difference making

no pressure, no striving, no elitist fitness, real solutions for real people who may or may not have had traumatic histories

1 of 1 people found this review helpful

fierce indeed!

loved it. I like listening to books where the author is also the narrator. It just gives it that much more depth. amazing what the human body and spirit can overcome. Thank you for sharing, Ana!

1 of 1 people found this review helpful

An Honest Powerful Guide for the Pursuit of Truth.

I am Grateful that the book way read in the authors voice...it made it more personal and feel as though she was right there with you.
If you are ready or perhaps already on the Truth Seekers path...then this book is for You!
Come open with no pre-programmed expectations...be Fearless in your fear...be willing.... If you are stuck or lost or got turned around....this book will set your path right, but...YOU must do the work.
I absolutely LOVE this book....I even bought a paperback copy. For now...it's my field guide.
Fearlessly & Lovingly I give Thanks,
A. LaPonte

1 of 1 people found this review helpful

I really wanted to give more stars.

This was a great book and story. Ana did a great job of putting emotion in to it. Where I struggled was wishing I had the book in front of me. I think I would have like to have the book so I can see the different guided poses etc. to refer to.
And for listening to a book at work when I can't pause it to do the things she says, it got a little boring. But very interesting when she told the stories about herself and how she dealt with different issues. I found this almost more helpful.

What a book !! Amazing life story and very sad too

Well worth listening too, so glad she narrated this very deep and personal story herself I think it really made the difference hearing her own voice. I now follow her work on Facebook and you tubes after listening to this inspirational life story.

2 of 2 people found this review helpful

Wonderful and Inspiring!!!

Would you listen to Fierce Medicine again? Why?

Yes I would and I will. This is such a captivating story read by such a strong person. Ana's life was not easy but she become one of the most inspiring people I come across regardless her past. I have just ordered the book version straight after listening to it. Truly Beautiful.

What was one of the most memorable moments of Fierce Medicine?

Death Meditation.

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

You cannot put it down :) I have listened to it whenever I could. Looking for excuses to go for a walk in the woods on the lunch break.

Any additional comments?

If you a yoga lover or not you will benefit from this book. Or as a woman you just do not want to be stuck forever in your damaging behaviors and you feel the strong need to move your life towards your better self . This will be one of the best things which can help you to do it. It will change you and it will help you.

2 of 2 people found this review helpful

Wow!

Mind blowing, virtually listened to this in one go. Ana's narration keeps you totally engaged through out and her honesty, transparency and wisdom of her life experiences are so identifiable and relatable. Thank you so much.

1 of 1 people found this review helpful

Immensely enjoyable, authentic and truthful

love it. Feel like Ana was my friend and I'll miss it so much more I'm finished. Wasn't expecting it to be so honest, refreshing and fun! really enjoyed it and admire her so much.
thank you Anna

1 of 1 people found this review helpful

Amazing!!

I loved this book. Ana is such an inspiration. I'm just about to listen to it again. There's so many words of wisdom in it. Ana's reading is first class. What courage! Thank you Ana for writing this book.

1 of 1 people found this review helpful

inspiring

this book is inspirational and helpful towards holistic healing. it's worth listening to all parts and all the way to the end.

1 of 1 people found this review helpful

Inspiring!

Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?

Really great book full of practical advice. Unusual combination of details of Ana Forrest's personal life journey and guided yoga and meditation practices. My mistake was trying to listen whilst driving. A good listen for the autobiographical parts but not so great for the yoga, which i did want to try! A powerful 'Death meditation' which was more uplifting than you'd think! Well worth a listen, with an open heart.

1 of 1 people found this review helpful

Amazing medicine!!

At first i was not sure what to make of this book with some of the language used. By the end i was pleasently suprised. Ana really bares her soul and provides listeners with so much wisdom. If you are on a soul searching journey this book is a complete inspiration as is Ana T Forrest!

1 of 1 people found this review helpful

Powerful experience transmitted through Ana

Where does Fierce Medicine rank among all the audiobooks you’ve listened to so far?

A quality experience. Ana's voice is both compelling and impacting.

What does Ana T. Forrest bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you had only read the book?

Hearing the story of Ana's life and the evolution of her yoga journey and career is made profound by her embodiment. Her accompanying PDF's and audio instructions for postural, breath and meditation practice enrich the experience further allowing you to really engage the content and invite your own transformation, should you wish.

Any additional comments?

A content warning might be appropriate. Whilst I had heard that there is a rich and deep history to Ana's life's work, although I was willing, I was unprepared for the extent of traumas explored.

1 of 1 people found this review helpful

Surprised and delighted

I’m a yoga teacher and I’m booked on an Ana Forrest workshop in a few weeks so I thought I better do some research as our styles are polar opposite to each other. I wasn’t sure what to expect from this book but it has invigorated and inspired me to continue to follow and teach my path my style of Zen yoga, as a teacher I have a mixture of beliefs and faith I don’t fully subscribe to any one school of yoga and I’m ok with that I’m authentic to me but it’s awesome to know that I’m not the only one in this situation. Great book great narration eye opening and honest which is refreshing.
Namaste