Reviews (45)

Close to conversion
I have been reading this a little at a time for about the past couple months.Very good, very wonderful ideas.Osho is a very inspirational person, who teaches in a clear, concise way so that anyone may understand.He is a truly spiritual and beautiful person.

Change
This world is in need of a deep change, and through tantra, we can all unite and live as we are ..naturally.The first few chapters of this book changed my life in a matter of days (and I've bareley tried any of the tecniques).Through it i realized that there is no such thing as something being bad (bad energy, thoughts, actions).They just are holy, something from god, that you soudln't deny but embrace as your own, and through it you will accept yourself and all as the all powerful and all mighty, no matter what society may say about what is right or wrong.I have never read a book that has changed me so much, and has helped me to understand my life.

A unique view
Osho has a unique view on things, a type of view you won't likely find somewhere else, so for this reason alone it is good to study some of his work.
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Subjects:  1. Criticism, interpretation, etc    2. Eastern - General    3. Hinduism    4. Meditation    5. Mind & Body    6. New Age    7. Religion    8. Religion - World Religions    9. Spiritual life    10. Tantras    11. Tantras.    12. Tantrism    13. Vigyan Bhairav    14. Mind, body, spirit: disciplines & techniques    15. Popular psychology    16. Religion / Spirituality   

Reviews (24)

A Great Introduction to Buddhist Thought and Meditation!
This book and Sakyong Mipham's more recent "Ruling Your World," are permanent fixtures in my library.Sometimes Buddhist writings can be difficult to understand or relate to, but this author has a Western background and is able to communicate ideas in ways that are easy to identify with for people without a background in Buddhist thought.Our culture and the media encourage "monkey mind," and it's hard to gain control of inner thought processes in a world that constantly communicates "Buy More, Do More, Be More."This book offers a means of calming the internal turmoil and developing your mind to reach its potential.
Good book-very helpful
This book has been helpful for dealing with anxiety/depression.I'm not much into just meditating or even following Buddhist thinking, however, there is value in what I've learned from this book -- disciplining the mind and learning to keep the mind "present".This has helped me from worrying "too far ahead" or losing perspective of life by helping strengthen my mind.I highly recommend this book along with practicing some form of meditation if you struggle with anxiety or negative/worrying thoughts.

Best introduction to meditation
I think what sets this book apart from others of its kind is the unmatched clarity and simplicity of the language. The unique situation here is that Sakyong Mipham Rinpoche, an accomplished and very learned Tibetan Buddhist teacher, grew up in the West and so speaks our language like a native. Because of this, he is able to speak to us in a way that most other equally accomplished Tibetan lamas are unable to. It's important to emphasize that meditation is best learned and practiced under the guidance of a living human being who has some experience with it - a book alone will not suffice. But, having said that, this book is definitely a good companion to have when beginning your journey. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Asian And Oriental Religions    2. Buddhism - General    3. Meditation    4. Psychology    5. Psychotherapy - Counseling    6. Religion - World Religions    7. Mind, body, spirit: disciplines & techniques    8. Philosophy / Mind & Body    9. Popular psychology    10. Self-Help & Practical Interests   

Subjects:  1. Eastern - General    2. General    3. Hatha Yoga    4. Health & Fitness    5. Oriental Philosophy    6. Philosophy    7. Religion    8. Yoga    9. Philosophy / General   

Reviews (13)

The Tao of Leadership: Lao Tzu's Tao Te Ching Adapted for a New Age
Nice little book to keep on hand for those trying times.Has lots of very relevant points - you just have to stop, think and put it in context for you.
Can't Lead Without It
I've used this book for over 10 years as my leadership support tool.As General Manager of a $200MM business, I need perspective and support on a daily basis - and Heider's book provides it. I love that the persective is NOT a management flavor of the week, but a view on leadership that stands the test of time. Great Source, Bad Translation
I have read several translations of the Tao Te Ching and was very disappointed in this read. I feel as if much of the strengths from the original text are lost in this author?s choice of words and examples. This translation loses the beauty and appreciation of nature that the original texts focused on. (He refers to calculators and computers in some instances) I was also bothered by his addition of the Christian understanding of God as a character in his translations.Over all I really recommend finding a better translation than this to read if you are a first timer. (such as translation by Victor H. Mair) It is a bit more of a heavy read but caries over the interesting paradoxes that make the ancient document so intriguing.Read more

Subjects:  1. Business & Economics    2. Business / Economics / Finance    3. Business/Economics    4. Dao de jing    5. Laozi    6. Laozi.    7. Leadership    8. Taoism    9. Body, Mind & Spirit / General    10. Business & Economics / Leadership    11. John Heider    12. Lao-tzu    13. Religion-Taoism    14. Tao te ching   

Reviews (18)

Read the book before you write a review!
I don't believe that all of these people giving such rave reviews of this book have really used it for long. I also would tend to rate it very highly, except that there is a glaring typo, like the entire description, of hexagram #15. I used to have a copy of this book, and used it, and for the most part loved it, but I find it difficult to believe that an author of any integrity would not have done a revision by now, and corrected the error.If that was done, I would happily buy and use another copy of this book

Easy and Fun to Use!
As an acupuncture student, I was interested in learning about the I CHING.
the best 4 beginners and masters
When I was 19 I was introduced to the I ching.It came in the form of this workbook and almost 10 years later I now still use it as my primary tool and reference.I have since become a follower of Lao Tzu and his teachings. Having read countless interpretations of the actual book of changes when it comes down to actually using the oracle this is the best one.I've also tried 6 other "oracle" books but none come close to this.If u never thought of doing anything close to the I ching then this book is suitable. If you haven't already used this book as a Lao Tzu reader then whereve u been? ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Divination    2. Eastern - General    3. I Ching    4. New Age / Body, Mind & Spirit    5. Philosophy    6. Yi jing    7. Mind, body, spirit: disciplines & techniques    8. Philosophy / Eastern   

Reviews (3)

Ingaging
The CD in the back of this book is worth the cost.The graphics are ingaging and imaginative.The poems of Rumi are inspiring as always and will awaken your spirit.

New Rumi Book
This is a beautifully illustrated sequel to the Illuminated Rumi by Coleman Barks and Michael Green. Included is a CD by the Illumination Band which interprets the poems musically in American roots style(bluegrass, blues)which sounds strange but works. Not the greatest recording, but the point gets across. There's a longing in those American art forms which somehow is a good fit for the poetry. There has been criticism about these non-literal translations of Rumi's words but I think the point of the poems comes across nicely. There are certainly plenty of copies of Nicholson or Arberry out there if someone needs a more literal version, and they can decide for themselves. One Song is definitely recommended.
Beautiful and inspiring!
Continuing in the tradition of the book he co-authored with Coleman Barks, The Illuminated Rumi, Michael Green has created a volume even more breath-taking than the first. The poetry of Rumi has touched North Americans because its language and references feel modern, relevant, humorous and inspiring.The spirituality contained in both images and words in this book celebrates life, while it also reminds us that we can become more than a "common denominator."We can be both ordinary and extraordinary.The images alone will give extended experiences of insight, wisdom, guidance, serenity, and hope.This is a book to return to over and over again. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Arabic Poetry    2. Eastern - General    3. Middle Eastern    4. Poetry    5. Religion - World Religions    6. Arabic    7. Works by individual poets: classical, early & medieval   

Reviews (34)

Blow your mind to save your mind.
A friend turned me on to this book and it changed my whole perspective on life in general and my life personally.
Excellent but brutal
One of the few books I've read that I recommend time and time again to my students - an excellent but brutal analysis of the human condition.
Straight-forward and Easy to Read
With a series of concise essays that are penetrating and remarkably to-the-point, Krishnamurti presents the reader with a many-sided exploration of spirituality, morality, ethics, religion, and belief. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Eastern - Gurus    2. Ethics & Moral Philosophy    3. General    4. Human beings    5. Liberty    6. Life    7. Philosophy    8. Psychology    9. Self (Philosophy)    10. Thought and thinking    11. Mind, body, spirit: disciplines & techniques    12. Oriental & Indian philosophy    13. Religion / General   

Editorial Review

Arguably one of the most profoundly important essays ever written on the nature and significance of "quality" and definitely a necessary anodyne to the consequences of a modern worldpathologically obsessed with quantity.Although set as a story of a cross-country trip on a motorcycle by a father and son, it is more nearly a journey through 2,000 years of Western philosophy. For some people, this has been a trulylife-changing book. ... Read more

Reviews (471)

Not a good philosophy book
If you are looking for a new and SUBSTANTIATED philosophical view, this is not the right book. An excellent work of fiction, great writing, yes, these you will find in this book -- but not a strong philosophy.
"Walden" Meets "Easy Rider"
Anyone with moderate intelligence and sufficient leisure can work out their own private philosophy.The worth of such a philosophy should not be measured by comparison to the great philosophers of the past (or present); rather we should ask how well does it assist its creator in coping with life.Some personal philosophies are crafted in such a way that they help, not just their creator, but large numbers of their creator's fellow beings.Thus it is with the personal philosophy of Robert M. Pirsig, who laments that he has not had an original thought in years.
It is worth rereadng several times
I read this book several times over the years and each time I get something new out of it. I'm a Christian and though this book derives some of its underpinnings from Eastern philosopy, the book gives a great overview of Western civilization. How the book uses geography, the personal relationships, his past history, and Greek and Eastern philosophy to prove his thesis is fascinating. The book has problems. The main character does not follow his own philosophy in some ways. Pirsig makes too broad of generalizations about the Greek philosophers. Phaedrus's experience at the University of Chicago does not ring true to me. However, the book challenges the reader to think, to ponder life in general and contemplate on how the branches of knowledge tie together.
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Subjects:  1. Eastern - General    2. Eastern - Zen    3. Emotions    4. Essays & Travelogues    5. Fathers and sons    6. General    7. Philosophy    8. Self    9. Travel - General    10. United States    11. Psychology & Psychiatry / General   

Reviews (9)

Wonderful
This is a wonderful book. Great introduction, with great answers for common questions. You should probably read 'A Buddhism Primer - An Introduction to Buddhism' as well for a little more in depth but complimentary book to this one.

Basic but informative Buddhist Q&A book
This book grew out of a smaller work entitled "I Wonder Why;" it "is not designed to be a comprehensive introduction to Buddhism, but to clarify points, provide Buddhist perspectives on modern issues, and stimulate the curiosity and questioning minds of the readers" (p. 10).The author makes some profound statements about questions: p. 7: "In the beginning one should remain skeptical and rely on questioning and checking the teachings based on one's understanding" and p. 9: "I believe that spiritual practice is more about holding questions than finding answers.Seeking one correct answer often comes from a wish to make life-which is basically fluid-into something certain and fixed."The latter applies directly to Buddhism itself: p. 77-8: "As the Buddha's teachings spread from one country to another, they adapted to the culture and mentality of the people in each place without changing the essential meaning...The external forms and ways of doing things are not the Dharma."Thus, she differentiates between true practitioners and p. 118: "joss stick Buddhists."Needless to say, this book is for people truly interested in or at least honestly curious about Buddhism.The author corrects many incorrect views: p. 42: "There is nothing inherently wrong with the world; the real problem lies in our disturbing attitudes" and p. 63: to set reachable short-term goals as well as long-term resolve when purifying negative traits and actions.In addition to considerable information on helping the dying, a mantra to say when about to eat meat (p. 109: "Om Ahbirakay tsara hung" said 7 times & pray for animal to have fortunate rebirth), types of Buddhist nuns and robes, and especially children (p. 132: "When children see an adult sitting peacefully, they get the idea that they can as well" and p. 134: "Love is more important to children than material possessions.Choosing to earn more money at the expense of good family relations may mean later having to spend that extra income on therapy and counseling for both parents and children!").Her words are worth considerable thought though they are quite basic and virtually nonsectarian.It's worth your time now since: p. 41: "No one dies thinking, `I should have worked more overtime.'"

Great Introduction to Buddhism
Great Introduction to BuddhismRead more

Subjects:  1. Buddhism    2. Buddhism - General    3. Doctrines    4. Religion    5. Religion - World Religions   

Editorial Review

You might want to digest this book slowly, a few pages at a time. Although Zen teacher Steve Hagen has a knack for putting the philosophy of Buddhism in a "plain and simple" package, it may take a while to sink in. There is so much there. Seeing reality, realizing the wisdom of the self, breaking free of dualistic thinking--this is pretty heady stuff. Thankfully, Hagen passes it along in the form of examples from life, psychological tidbits, and stories from Buddhist teachers past and present. And when it clicks in, it can be life-transforming. Hagen explains this shift in outlook and how the fundamental way we look at the world affects everything we do. As an outline, Hagen follows the basic teachings of the Buddha, and we see that, rather than dogmatic truths, they are reminders for us as we reconsider the life we have taken for granted for so long. As it turns out, Buddhism is life, plain and simple. Read more

Reviews (113)

Very little simplicity here.....
This book contains SOME very good information. Overall, I am glad to have purchased it for some of the information it contained. However, the author repeats himself constantly. Sometimes he changes the wording and sometimes he doesn't bother, he just repeats himself. If I could count the number of times he claims that things don't exist, and that every perceived thing is a concept, I'd guess it to be near one hundred.
A very narrow view but a nice simple read
This book portrays Buddhism as this really simple philosophy of simply living in the moment and throws away the rest. It is too simplistic to throw away all those sutras that other forms of Buddhism and simply state Zen is the only way. It's only one very narrow way. But I did enjoy it as a nice easy little read when you are on the train in the morning to get your mind thinking in a positive mode for the day. Its more of a new age self help book, but for the money it's fine!

Patience . . .
I'm glad I have other sources re Zen, because if it were only this book I checked, it would be history.The editorial review at the beginning said:"You might want to digest this book slowly, a few pages at a time."Otherwise, you may want to toss the book across the room.
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Subjects:  1. Buddhism    2. Buddhism - General    3. Doctrines    4. Eastern - General    5. Eastern - Zen    6. Philosophy    7. Religion - World Religions    8. Philosophy / Eastern   

Editorial Review

More than just a translation, Richard Wilhelm's Read more

Reviews (32)

+++ The Classic Book of Changes +++
In this reader's experience, the Bollingen Wilhelm/Baynes Book of Changes remains the deepest rendition of the I Ching. My understanding is that the Wilhelms were of the Mystical Christian Tradition, as well as early Jungian Psychology followers. Read further into their line of commentary books to perhaps see this independantly. When dealing with the Spiritual Archetypes and supporting cosmology of the Book of Changes, it would seem that such a background can only be helpful. The Wilhelms were scholars in Old and New Chinese language and script as well. MOST importantly they had a direct, deep and long immersion into the living old chinese tradition, through being in pre-World War Two China, with its traditional scholars. In direct support of the above assertions the first paragraph from the preface is quoted in full below.
Excellent
You can add very little in terms of praise to the existing reviews of such classic and monumental work, because it has all been said already. A few qualifying words come to mind though, such as: serious translation, rigorous methodology and brilliant choice of words within the tight parameters of faithful rendition. Obscure, well, yes. What evoques in your mind would be definitely open to interpretation, but that has nothing to do with the translator and its probably the way is meant to be...

Remains the definitive work on the ancient Book of Wisdom
The 'I Ching' or 'Book of Changes' is a priceless pearl. The Richard Wilhelm/Baynes edition remains the definitive work. My original copy is worn, covered with notes and underlinings. It's a good idea to buy two copies! One to leave untarnished; the other for ones personal notebook. This is the recipe book for life itself. For me, it is not a book of divination, but a work of mathematical and philosophical beauty. And Wisdom that is as old as the Pyramids, and as enduring. There is simply no other book like it. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Body, Mind & Spirit    2. I Ching    3. New Age    4. Religion - World Religions    5. Body, Mind & Spirit / I Ching    6. Confucianism    7. Mind, Body, Spirit    8. Philosophy    9. Religion    10. Taoism   

Reviews (19)

Simple Wisdom to Clear Your Head
This is a wonderful set of short lectures that Pema Chodron gave to a group of meditation students that stayed for a month at the Gampo Abbey in Nova Scotia where she is a resident teacher.The lectures are to the point, deal with anger, addiction, fear, joy, and all the many problems we are faced with not only daily, but constatly in our minds, whether we are aware of them or not.She gives techniques to understand what it is that fills our minds and often poisons our hearts, how to label them so that ultimately we may move past these problems with compassion, understanding and ultimately help put ourselves at ease.I highly recommend this book if you are interested in meditation and/or are suffering from anger, addiction (to anything- shopping, drugs, cigarettes, alcohol, love, etc...), or just seek more interpersonal peace.

What the world needs now
This is the best book from any spiritual tradition that I've ever read, especially as it applies to everyday life. It brought me kindness, joy, and enormous inspiration, entirely without judgment. Pema Chodron believes we are all essentially good people, here to offer kindness to ourselves and others as a way of life. She invites us to learn to open to ever more challenging situations as a way of living life more fully, and she shows us how. She guides us to focus not on perfection, but the beauty of life lived just as it is. Pema Chodron is a great teacher and role model, and I am deeply grateful to her for writing this book. I will read it again and again.

Great book, life changing
It's a must read for those into meditation and the dharma ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Buddhism    2. Buddhism - General    3. Eastern - General    4. Meditation    5. Philosophy    6. Religion - World Religions    7. Mind, body, spirit: disciplines & techniques    8. Religion / Buddhism   

Editorial Review

So many books have been written about the meditation side of Zen and the everyday, chop wood/carry water side of Zen. But few books have approached Zen the way that most Japanese actually do--through ritualized arts of discipline and beauty--and perhaps that is why Eugen Herrigel's Read more

Reviews (53)

Awonderful account of Herrigel's spiritual journey/5 stars
As a Zen Buddhist--unlike a few of the reviewers who
rich catalyst for our life journey
masterpiece. even the way it is written brings the reader on a journey so that he himself can learn and experience what the author intends to convey. not by explicitly writing what he wants the reader to 'learn', but rather by guiding the reader through a path- that is the only way to truly gain.

hitting the bull's-eye blindfolded
There is the Zen of no mind in which you eat when hungry, rest when tired, and stop when finished.There is also the Zen known through the ritualized arts of discipline and beauty such as archery, swordsmanship, brush-and-ink, the tea ceremony, or flower arranging. This book is Herrigel's story of striking the target bull's-eye blindfolded. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Archery    2. Archery And Target Shooting    3. Eastern - General    4. Eastern - Zen    5. Martial Arts & Self-Defense    6. Philosophy    7. Zen Buddhism    8. Religion / Eastern   

Editorial Review

Pema Chodron is a Buddhist nun for regular folks. Having raised a family of her own, she doesn't shy away from persistent troubles and the basic meatiness of life. In fact, in Read more

Reviews (26)

Being Versus Analysis
Compassion is born of the heart and served by a disciplined mind. What heals our dense energies and emotions is the capacity to embrace in our cells a sense of the seven virtues ... such as compassion. Now compassion is not allowing someone to hurt us constantly but rather it is seeing the pain in the other that provokes them to act out. And by that one can see and perceive beyond our ego's filter and into what really is going on. Often when someone hurts us it is because of their own hurt and corresponding vindictiveness to extend the pain. The Buddha once said that hate never begets hate ...only love begets hate. Detached love is still love in the agape sense ... and compassion is the key to opening the heart once more to allow this remedy to flow. It is a gift to yourself ... when you release yourself from the attachment of what you want a situation to result in. Self-love is your birthright and it is in self-love that you can experience compassion along side strong boundaries.

Absolutely Inspirational and Down to Earth
I loved this book. A friend recommended it to me when I said i was interested in meditation. Pema Chodron has a wonderfully practical down-to-Earth way of putting things, and she has a delightful sense of humor. If interested in Buddhism, meditation, or simply learning to live more fully in the present, with all of life's trials and beauty, you will find much to inspire you in this lovely book.

Couldn't put the book down
My girlfriend bought me this book over the holidays, and I blew it off but finally had a chance read it from start to finish in a matter of 2 days.Pema Chodron wrote this book with clarity for everyone to understand her beliefs.I've read numerous other books pertaining to Buddhism and this one is by the far the easiest one to understand and comprehend.This book is based around the idea of being compassionate to yourself which in turn will penetrate others around you to develop some level of compassion.Chodron does an excellent job of motivating oneself to clear their mind and avoid unnecessary feelings of anger, aggression, pleasure, etc.Not only does Chodron explain the necessary steps to clear your mind, but she compliments this explanation with examples from her personal experience with students and teachers.The verbage outlined in this book is very easy to comprehend versus other Buddhist books I picked up and read. I've noticed in the past I've had to re-read certain passages quite a few times to fully understand it's meaning, but not with this book.This book motivates me to "start" working on myself, and in doing so it will encourage me to open my eyes to everyone and everything in this world. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Buddhism    2. Buddhism - General    3. China    4. Doctrines    5. Eastern - General    6. Philosophy    7. Religion - World Religions    8. Spiritual life    9. Tibet    10. Mind, body, spirit: disciplines & techniques    11. Religion / Buddhism   

Reviews (2)

A Fine Book on Sufi Philosophy
"The Heart of Sufism" is a fascinating little compendium of essential essays on pan-Islamic spirituality, deliniating the transcendental and transrational aspects of a religion that is often derided as a prerational hotbed of tribalism and terrorism.Inayat Khan's essays show an Islam that embraces both it's Judeochristian roots and contributions from other religions (such as Hinduism and Buddhism), and a breath of fresh, progressive air in a world where stagnant religion can lead to terrible tragedies.However, while "Sufism" is long on theory and metaphysics, there is little information on real practice- those looking for a guide to Sufi spiritual practice must look elsewhere.

Excellent Overview of Hazrat Inayat Khan's Teachings
This book provides an excellent overview of the voluminous works of Hazrat Inayat Khan, of which the 14 volume "Message Series" is the core.Dr. Witteveen has artfully selected major topics within this message andhas presented key writings within each topic. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Eastern - General    2. Islam - General    3. Islam - Sufism    4. Religion    5. Religion - World Religions    6. Sufism    7. Islam    8. Mind, body, spirit: disciplines & techniques    9. Mysticism    10. Religion / Sufism   

Reviews (7)

Instrumental for ANYONE seeking to strengthen their skills in compassion
Regardless of your religious orientation, the mental practice of cultivating fearlessness and compassion is to your benefit. Both traits are in short supply in the world but much in demand for individual peace of mind. Take a few baby steps and watch yourself acquire a sense of inner peace. You need not become a Buddhist but have a clear mind is a must in a harried world. Pema Chodron was introduced to me by a practising Buddhist who was also a television broadcaster when I was in the grips of taking something way too personally. Chodron once called pain one of the greatest spiritual teachers and she was right on. My experience demanded compassion towards a situation that had my ego in over-drive. She also said that "If we learn to open our hearts, anyone, including the people who drive us crazy, can be our teacher".
Comfortable with Uncertainty: 108 Teachings on Cultivating Fearlessness and Compassion
I think this is a great book with many good strategies to use to help you live your life in a more mature and fulfilling way.The emphasis is on living fully in the moment and not letting yourself be caught up in the kind of thinking that distracts and causes anxiety. It recommends ways to stop using so many of the avoidance techniques that so many of us employ to keep from dealing with painful thoughts and situations. This book contains step-by-step instructions on how to meditate for insight and its calming and slowing effects.

Comfortable With UnCertainty
A beautiful book for Buddhists and non-Buddhists alike.Pema Chodron's teachings are clear and concise.This book is a compilation of her teachings taken in short sections, so it can be read cover to cover or the teachings taken individually as one wishes, one day at a time, or randomly. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Asian And Oriental Religions    2. Buddhism    3. Buddhism - General    4. Buddhism - Rituals & Practice    5. Doctrines    6. Meditation    7. Personal Growth - General    8. Religion    9. Religion - Inspirational/Spirituality    10. Spiritual    11. Spiritual life    12. Religion / Buddhism   

Reviews (20)

A Mom's Perspective
I love this little guide.It's so beautifully written and helps me return to the the really important aspects of parenting:honoring each child's individuality and letting go of control.I read one or two passages each morning to remind me that I have a choice in how I interact with my children. This little guide is a must have if you feel the world is spinning a little too fast.

Excellent
This is a perfect book for new parents.You don't need to have a lot of time in one chunk, since it's a compilation of thoughtful advice pieces.These are very insightful and can give new meaning every time they're read.I give them to all new parents I know and they rave!

A daily dose of spiritual parenting inspiration and advice!
This book has so many wonderful pages of inspiration.The passages are beautifully written and contain simple words of advice. I close my eyes and choose a page from the book each morning... a simple reminder of a spiritual parenting idea to focus on that day.Read more

Subjects:  1. Buddhism - Zen    2. Child Care/Parenting    3. Dao de jing    4. Eastern - Taoism    5. Family & Relationships    6. Family / Parenting / Childbirth    7. Lao-tzu    8. Laozi    9. Parenting    10. Parenting - General    11. Taoism    12. Mind, body, spirit: disciplines & techniques   

Editorial Review

As a primer on living the good life, few books compete with Read more

Reviews (32)

A practical guide to change for the better
Just like the title, "How to Practice" is a gift to humankind to illuminate the right way to act. The goal of being human is to realize the potential within, which is a permanent state of happiness and peace. To achieve this, the beginner cultivates kindness and harmony for all beings.
living with peace of mind
The Dalai Lama teaches how to make every action part of your spiritual practice and, in doing so, create a meaningful life filled with happiness. He recommends disconnecting the attachment of your happiness from the material circumstances of your life and opening instead to the true source of your happiness which is your inner peace of mind. There is a section on Buddhist Tantra and a discussion of how sexuality can be used in the search for peace and kindness. Dalai Lama means "ocean of wisdom." The fourteenth Dalai Lama (Tenzin Gyatso) won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1989 as the exiled spiritual leader of Tibet. At the age of two, in accordance with Tibetan tradition, he was recognized as the reincarnation of his predecessor, the thirteenth Dalai Lama. In 1950 (the year of the Chinese invasion of Tibet), at age 16, he was called upon to assume full political power and leadership. Since 1960 he has resided in Dharamsala, India, aptly known as "Little Lhasa," the seat of the Tibetan government in exile.

Very good book....a little history, some practical exercises, but at times a little complex for me
I'm not sure if my title suggests that I like it or have reservations.....well, I thought it was a great read.
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Subjects:  1. Buddhism    2. Buddhism - General    3. Buddhism - Tibetan    4. Doctrines    5. Inspirational - General    6. Religion - World Religions    7. Religious life    8. Self-Help    9. Spiritual    10. Personal Christian testimony & popular inspirational works    11. Religion / Buddhism   

Editorial Review

In the summer of 1999, the Dalai Lama addressed an audience of over 40,000 in Central Park on how to live a better life. Read more

Reviews (17)

Insightful!
This is an easy to read book with tons of insight into a better mindset.You should read the book slowly -- take time to reflect on each idea, such as compassion.Keep the topics of the book in mind throughout your day, whether you're a mom at home, a student at school, or working in your cubicle.It will be the first step into inner peace and practicing compassion in every day life.

A Delight to read...as usual.
I have yet to read a book by the Dalai Lama that I was not impressed and moved by. This little book is easy to read and full of insight as well as ways to incorporate the Buddhist ideal of compassion into our every day lives. You can't go wrong with this one.

His presence shines through
Of the 8 books I've read by Ngawang Losang Tenzin Gyatso, the 14th Dalai Lama of Tibet, I like this one best (though I haven't read the Practice book others have mentioned).This one includes comments on several Buddhist texts (as have some of his others).However, this one is a bit more practical than the others--it includes some guidance on the 4 Immeasurables practices (loving kindness, compassion, equanimity, and joy--especially in others' happiness), Bodhichitta (Buddha Mind or universal compassion), and Shamatha or Shine (Calm or Tranquil Abiding).The last is the basic form of Tibetan Buddhist (Vajrayana) meditation.It is an essential starting point towards enlightenment--included in virtually all schools of Buddhism from Theravada (SE Asia) to Dzogchen and Mahamudra.All these teachings are presented in His Holiness' gentle, compassionate style, reflecting his own nature.I had the great fortune to meet him for a brief moment in Washington, DC and, IMHO, he is the most present and sincere and real person I've met.The value of his work (s) IMHO is more a reflection of what he is than who he is or what he says or writes. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Buddhism    2. Buddhism - General    3. Buddhism - Tibetan    4. Eastern - General    5. Nature    6. Religion    7. Religion - World Religions    8. Religious aspects    9. Religious life    10. Spiritual life    11. Religion / Buddhism