The Art of Happiness

By: His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Howard C. Cutler MD

Narrated by: Howard C. Cutler MD

Length: 3 hrs and 18 mins

Publisher's summary

The Dalai Lama is probably one of the only people who, if you ask him if he's happy, even though he's suffered the loss of his country, will give you an unconditional "yes." What's more, he'll tell you that happiness is the purpose of life, and the "the very motion of our life is toward happiness." How to get there has always been the question. He's tried to answer it before, but he's never had the help of a psychiatrist to get the message across in a context we can easily understand.

Through meditation, stories, and the meeting of Buddhism and psychology, the Dalai Lama shows us how to defeat day-to-day depression, anxiety, anger, jealousy, or just an ordinary bad mood. He discusses relationships, health, family, work, and spirituality to show us how to ride through life's obstacles on a deep, abiding source of inner peace. Based on 2,500 years of Buddhist meditations and with a healthy dose of common sense, The Art of Happiness is a program that crosses the boundaries of all traditions to help listeners with the difficulties common to all human beings.

©1998 His Holiness the Dalai Lama and Howard C. Cutler, M.D., All Rights Reserved (P)1998 Simon & Schuster, Inc.

Critic reviews

"... this is one of the best how-to books a reader will ever find." (Booklist)
"[It]is not only an excellent supplement to daily self-awareness practices, it is also an indispensable educational tool." (AudioFile)

Easy to understand, good for beginners

Essential but basic teachings on Buddhist beliefs expounded on by Cutler. Good jumping off point for those interested in the topic.

Very good

How does one judge a book? If you learn and implement one good concept in your life, I call that a good book.
It would be extremely difficult for anyone with an open mind to listen to this book and not find at least one good concept or belief that would enhance their life.
For me, it is the thought that believing that intimacy may only be found with a romantic partner. A thought pervasive in western culture. To the contrary, the view expressed that I will implement is that any human interaction is a chance of intimacy, respect for another’s dignity, and doorway to a possible friendship. Compassion. Every interaction is an opportunity to grow it and show it.

wonderful

it was huge and life changing . the art is real you just have to live it

Great book

Inspiring content. Voice actor for his holiness was very good. Nasal tone of Cutler was annoying.

I want more

loved it, want to hear more like this one
from the dahli lama. thank you prime

Enjoyed it

I enjoyed hearing the teachings of the Dahli Lama. I think it was a good book to add to my arsenal.

changed me

answers complex questions about physical and mental pain that I have often pondered.

explains great differences between Western and eastern states of mind

Instructive and inspiring

It met my expectations. I am from Hindu background with some understanding of Buddhism. I have been reading spiritual texts and books for 15 years. I liked the book for its simple and direct message from Dalai Lama and cutler.

Beautiful Journey

Beyond helpful for navigating life. The narration was natural sounding for book and well read. This book opens so many doors for taking on life with perspective, curiosity, kindness, compassion, empathy, and joy. We are all capable of creating a new narrative of love and positive nature. Thank you for sharing this book and I hope many more people take the time to explore.

Everyone should read this book!

Everyone should read this book, especially those who have depression, anxiety, PTSD, etc. The philosophy is not new but Dalai Lama laid it out in plain sight!