Spiritual Living

Neale Donald Walsch on Holistic Living

by Neale Donald Walsch

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"If you are familiar with Mr. Walsch's other works, you already know something of the remarkable dialogue that he presents which are just tremendously insightful and uplifting. I have to honestly say that his books have made a very tangible and profound difference in my life for which I shall always be very grateful.This book on holistic living presents a kind of mini-overview of some of the themes that were presented in his Conversations with God trilogy. Although it is brief and simple, it is nonetheless a beautiful summary of one of the core messages found in his other books having to do with discovering how the enjoyment of creating changes in one's life can have an overall positive effect on oneself, others, and the world at large. I wouldn't be put off by it's size or simplicity. If you enjoyed his other books, you will definitely find the same profound wisdom unfusing this edition. Enjoy."

Publisher: Hampton Roads Publishing | More reviews: amazon.com

Seeds for the Soul: Living as the Source of Who You Are

by Chuck Hillig

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"With his insightful and refreshing East-meets-West philosophy, Chuck Hillig gives us a peek into his thoughts and his journey. You can open up to any page of the book and find morsels (seeds) of truth contained therein. His words of wisdom are not "pushy" or overly "spiritual." Rather, he guides you to the path of your own thoughts with his simple, easy to read, and lyrical style. On one of the pages he writes:

"Action vs. Inaction: The psychologist says "Do." The Guru says "Be." Consciousness, taking both positions, says "Do-Be-Do-Be-Do.""

You gotta love him! "

Publisher: Sentient Publications | More reviews: amazon.com

Living a Life of Joy

by John Randolph Price

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"John Randolph Price takes possibility thinking to the max in Living a Life of Joy--a book that is truly a joy to read. Price writes that "Disease, suffering, turmoil, discord, failure, and poverty are the result of restricting the flow of spiritual energy...." This brilliant author inspires the reader to "turn away from sadness and sorrow, from lack and limitation, from conflict and chaos." Also helpful are the practical techniques that Price offers for aligning with the Master Mind.Living a Life of Joy makes a thoughtful gift for anyone for any occasion, but this book is especially helpful for friends and family who need to be cheered and infused with hope for "Living a Life of Joy"."

Publisher: Ballantine Books | More reviews: amazon.com

365 Nirvana Here And Now: Living Every Moment In Enlightenment

by Josh Baran

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"If you are seeking the spiritual understanding that would finally end your search, the open secret is that there is no movement to make that would capture a kept secret. As Wei Wu Wei has said, "What is not kept secret is a secret, and what is kept secret is not a secret at all." Or as the author quotes Yuanwu: "It is right in your face. This moment, the whole thing is handed to you."

That is the thesis of 365 Nirvana Here and Now. The purpose of the book is to reveal the secret through celebration of it in the form of a wide variety of quotations, and through guiding the reader toward its understanding. The result is that this may be read as two books: (1) a very short book consisting of 16 pages of introductory material along with an 11 page dialogue section at the end of the book, entitled "Afterthoughts," and (2) a long book consisting of 365 pages of quotes from a wide variety of sources.

The "very short book" establishes the presence of a spiritual teacher in this reading journey. The book is not merely 365 pages of quotes. The power of the book lies in the presence of a teacher who is asserting his presence thoughout. Because it is not enough to point out the variety of ways the open secret is expressed; the seeker has to be guided toward understanding these writings.

We learn from the "very short book" that the author Josh Baran is a strategic communications consultant in New York City. He has handled public relations for Bill Gates, the Dalai Lama, Byron Katie, Amnesty International and other institutions, individuals and corporations. He began his spiritual search at the age of 14 when he became suddenly preoccupied with the experience of "non-stop mental turmoil." By age 19 he became a full-time seeker, exploring various traditions and teachers, finally choosing to devote himself to Zen Buddhism. Baran became a Zen monk and priest, leaving his community after 8 years, displeased with its extremely authoritarian culture.

Fifteen years of independent exploration followed and culminated in a meeting with Tulku Urgyen, a revered master of Dzogchen. About that meeting, Baran writes, "I saw how much of my life's energies had been focused on looking forward to some imagined future, rather than simply celebrating the all-pervasive present. ... All I needed was to take to heart Tulku Urgyen's words, 'Simply let be in naturalness without technique, without artifice.'" After the meeting, Baran "hungered for the words that were alive with realization and that reflected the timeless view that Tulku Urgyen had pointed out. Slowly, I began gathering writings."

About the collection of writings making-up the bulk of this book, the author/editor says, "See where these words point and then drop them -- completely. What the Buddha, Jesus, or Zen Masters realized has nothing to do with your own understanding. In the end, it is all just story and hearsay."

Toward deepening the reader's understanding, the "very short book" makes two gestures: First, the author guides the reader's attention to an experience of the present moment, which leads to the inquiry, Who am I? This brings an awareness of "presence-aliveness" which Baran says is known as Nirvana, the Now, Enlightenment. This guided movement of attention takes only two pages of text and is effective. However, some might say that while the experience of pure awareness isn't that difficult to have, living from it is another story. Hence the second gesture.

Baran addresses "living from it" in a section of the "very short book" entitled "Afterthoughts," which includes excerpts of conversations he had with friends regarding the book. The dialogue begins with a questioner asking, "So now what? What can I do to live in the now? Josh: Notice how right away we want to move, shift gears, set goals. But I suggest that instead of developing any kind of spiritual plan, you pay careful attention to the thoughts themselves. What is our mind doing when you ask the question, 'What can I do to live in the now?'" In "Afterthoughts," what Tulku Urgyen imparted to Josh Baran, Josh attempts to convey to the reader, plainly and directly.

The "very short book" of 27 pages could be read first and portions of it re-visited now and then while reading the 365 pages of quotations. In that way the reader is always referring back to the guidance of a teacher who could help the reader correctly understand the quotations.

The quotations themselves are from diverse sources. The famous spiritual giants are represented. So are current living nondual teachers. So are people from outside core spirituality. Ordinary people are also represented. At least one quotation was from an "ordinary person" writing to an email list on nonduality. Going through an alphabetical listing of names, here are some examples selected to show the variety: Pearl Bailey, Alan Ball, Jacob Boehme, Truman Capote, Cezanne, Dostoyevsky, Natalie Goldberg, Woody Guthrie, Jack Kerouac, David Loy, Henry Miller, Deena Metzger, Mary Oliver, Anne Sexton, Jason Shulman, Alice Walker. There are approximately 300 authors featured, including scriptural texts and almost all the nondual teachers and Masters with whom readers of this publication are familiar, from Adyashanti to Ken Wilber. Each author is showing, in his or her way, their "love for reality," as Byron Katie might say.

To summarize, 365 Nirvana Here and Now consists of 365 pages of quotations and 27 pages of teaching material through which the author guides the reader toward understanding the quotations. The quotations crisply support the theme. The result is a focused yet mainstream teaching of nonduality.

Jerry Katz
One: Essential Writings on Nonduality"

Publisher: ThorsonsElement | More reviews: amazon.com

Dimensional Ascension: Multi-Dimensional Living for Light Workers (Spiritual Dimensions)

by Jules Kennedy

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"Dimensional Ascension: Multi-Dimensional Living for Light Workers by Jules Kennedy is Book #1 in the Utopian Vision Ascension series. The author is an experienced channeler, psychic, and spiritual workshop teacher. Jules outlines a series of dimensions which extend beyond the physical into realms where our psychic energy can cause miracles and we can heal the harms of the past. An empowering look into a technology that is completely based on love, grace, and compassion. This book also includes a 60-page fill-in workbook with soul-searching questions and drills so you can develop your psychic power. Manifest your dreams with Dimensional Ascension! "

Publisher: Loving Healing Press | More reviews: amazon.com

Home Sweeter Home: Creating a Haven of Simplicity and Spirit (Sweet Simplicity, Book 1)

by Jann Mitchell

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"As a stay-at-home mom I lead a pretty busy life in my house. Everyday I deal with the clutter and the stress of raising my child and helping my husband get out the door each morning for work. This book helped me get a real perspective on life. It comforted me and inspired me to get a hold on the activities in my household. I actually began to look at our lifestyle and clutter-filled house in a whole new light. It is a wonderful book that will put a smile on your face, give you a feeling of peace, and also give you practical helpful advice. I enjoyed it very, very much!!! :-)"

Publisher: Atria Books/Beyond Words | More reviews: amazon.com

Sacred Practices for Conscious Living

by Nancy J. Napier

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"I am truly blessed to get to work with Nancy in person. However, I have read this book and given it to friends who've had nothing but the highest praise for it. One friend in particular announced that upon meeting a potential therapist, he would insist on having the doctor read it. The exercises within the book have helped me tremendously. I think so many of us are trying to be more aware of the grace within day to day life, Nancy's book is a beautiful tool for anyone on this path."

Publisher: W. W. Norton & Company | More reviews: amazon.com

The Sacred Portable Now: The Transforming Gift of Living in the Moment

by Marcella Weiner

Crossing lines of spiritual preferences and levels of experience, this work offers a bridge to all explorers yearning to climb their inner heights. It presents readers with uncomplicated methods for strengthening their day with spiritually engaging moments.

Publisher: Prima Lifestyles | More reviews: amazon.com

Living in Process : Basic Truths for Living the Path of the Soul

by Anne Wilson Schaef

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"I loved this book. I've been a fan of Anne Wilson Shaef since "Women's Reality". What a remarkable mind - and spirit. Her views of living in process parallel some of Zen teachings of being in the "now" - or fully present in the moment. The examples and quotes from other people feel as if you can hear the diversity of the individuals - and the respect for that diversity. The sense of allowing others to be in their own process while "being true to yourself" as Jesus, Buddah, and many other spiritual leaders have professed is honored in a practical way, while not ignoring the reponsibility of owning one's garbage - "not puking up your process" on other's (she loves that statement and has used it in other books - I enjoy it too - so graffic - and makes the point>) As of all her books - you should get a marker and "own" this one. I highly recommend it. It reads smoothly and easily. Mental, Spiritual, Emotional, and Physical areas of your soul will be moved - as they should with a powerful Holistic healing book. It's "where it's at" today - and she is there before us again. May be seen as the "bible" of process. I'm right behind you Ann - keep on - keeping on"

Publisher: Ballantine Books | More reviews: amazon.com

Beyond the Blue Mountains: Wisdom And Compassion on Living And Dying

Beyond the Blue Mountains talks of death with gentleness and insight through the voices of wise men and women throughout history. Each quotation is a gem - from the whole spectrum of faith - waking the heart to a poignant alertness and deep understanding of the meaning of death. To read this book is to be inspired by the magnitude and nobility of humanity at its most vulnerable. To read and re-read it is to have all our emotions concerning death deepened and enlightened.

Publisher: Continuum | More reviews: amazon.com