Eastern Wisdom

Alan Watts introduced millions of Western listeners to Zen and other Eastern philosophies, but he’s also recognized as a brilliant commentator on Judeo-Christian traditions as well as a celebrity philosopher who exemplified the ideas — and lifestyle — of the 1960s counterculture.

This book shows how we can move beyond secular mindfulness and compassion techniques to the cultivation of insight - seeing into and thereby becoming free of the repetitive thinking that keeps us trapped in cycles of suffering. Most books in the secular mindfulness tradition stop with mindfulness and self-compassion but do little to uncover the root causes of our suffering. Drawing on both Buddhist analyses of mind and current findings in psychology and neuroscience, the book explains how our thinking becomes fixed through our engaging with unconscious preferences and reactions.

Imagine the Celtic saint Brigid and the great bodhisattva Guanyin sitting down together for a cup of tea. I certainly would want to listen in to their conversation! Oak and Lotus takes us to a similar place. It’s a beautiful, expansive book about the joyful integration of Eastern and Western wisdom, a resource I expect to return to again and again. — Carl McColman, author of The New Big Book of Christian Mysticism and Eternal Heart Oak and Lotus is a joy to read. Bringing Celtic Christianity into conversation with three major Eastern faith traditions—Hinduism, Buddhism, and Taoism—...

For over two millennia, the Lotus Sutra has been the cornerstone of Buddhist thought, guiding millions toward enlightenment and inner peace. Now, in a clear and captivating voice, Lotus Sutra for Beginners brings the timeless teachings of this sacred text to life for a modern audience. Whether you’re new to Buddhism or seeking deeper understanding, this book delivers the essence of the Lotus Sutra in a way that feels both profound and practical. Unlock the wisdom of the Buddha through the powerful parables of the Lotus Sutra. From the Burning House to the Jeweled Stupa, discover stories ...

The Buddhist saint Nāgārjuna, who lived in South India in approximately the second century CE, is undoubtedly the most important, influential, and widely studied Mahāyāna Buddhist philosopher. His greatest philosophical work, the Mūlamadhyamikakārikā - read and studied by philosophers in all major Buddhist schools of Tibet, China, Japan, and Korea - is one of the most influential works in the history of Indian philosophy. Now, in The Fundamental Wisdom of the Middle Way, Jay L. Garfield provides a clear translation of Nāgārjuna's seminal work.

A rich and multilayered guide that offers readers accessible wisdom and practical methods to cultivate deeper satisfaction in everyday experiences. In contrast to stimulus-driven pleasure, contentment comes from living a life of meaning that aligns with one's values. The author identifies the common traps people fall into looking for happiness that actually create stress, worries, and fears, and offers authentic mindfulness-based solutions to counteract them.

The Urban Monk, a New York Times best seller, reveals the secrets to finding an open heart, sharp mind, and grounded sense of well-being, even in the most demanding circumstances. Shojai's no-nonsense life mastery program brings together clear tools and exercises that can elevate your existence.

In the heart of war-torn Afghanistan, where cultural traditions and oppressive religious norms dictate every aspect of a woman’s life, Zynab emerges as an extraordinary force of defiance and hope. Born into a modest village and bound by her mother's dying wish to care for her blind brother, Jamal, Zynab’s world shifts when she witnesses the devastating consequences of women being denied access to proper medical care due to their refusal to see male doctors. Determined to change this grim reality, Zynab dreams of becoming a doctor and opening a clinic in her village where women can seek ...

Sadhguru speaks on the "Spirit of Eastern Wisdom: The Intelligence Within". He looks at how "Eastern wisdom does not come from the limited amount of data gathered from books or scriptures but by enhancing one's perception."

The Wisdom of Compassion offers rare insights into the Dalai Lama’s life and his efforts to translate compassion into action through deeply engaging, behind-the-scene stories about his interactions with remarkable people from all walks of life. This is the Dalai Lama at his most human, and...

This program is read by the author Bruce Lee’s daughter illuminates her father’s most powerful life philosophies—demonstrating how martial arts are a perfect metaphor for personal growth, and how we can practice those teachings every day. "Empty your mind; be formless, shapeless like water...

In this fascinating book, David Barash highlights an intriguing patch of common ground between scientific and religious thought, illuminating the many parallels between biology and Buddhism, allowing listeners to see both in a new way. Indeed, he shows that there are numerous places where the Buddhist and biological perspectives coincide. For instance, the cornerstone ecological concept - the interconnectedness and interdependence of all things - is remarkably similar to the fundamental insight of Buddhism.

There’s a reason monks carried The Ladder of Divine Ascent under their robes like a compass—because it didn’t just point north, it pointed upward. This ancient classic has guided seekers for over 1,400 years, yet most people today have never climbed its first rung. Why? Because it’s written for those already halfway up the mountain. The Ladder of Divine Ascent: A Beginner’s Guide: A Step-by-Step Path to Spiritual Growth changes that. It doesn’t water down the original—it translates it for the rest of us. Clear. Accessible. Actionable. Whether you're spiritually restless, ...

Why do smart, capable people still feel anxious, restless, or quietly unsatisfied—even when everything should be fine? It’s not because something’s wrong with you. It’s because no one ever handed you a clear, reliable map for dealing with life’s inner friction. This book is that map. The Four Noble Truths for Beginners: A Step-by-Step Introduction to Buddhist Wisdom takes the Buddha’s earliest, most powerful teaching and makes it usable—right now, in your life, just as it is. You don’t need incense, robes, or a spiritual retreat. You need practical tools that work when ...

Unlocking the I Ching: A Complete Guide to the Book of Changes, Divination, and Timeless Eastern Wisdom is your essential introduction to one of the world’s most profound spiritual and philosophical tools. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to deepen your practice, this accessible guide explores the rich symbolism, historical origins, and practical applications of the I Ching in everyday life. Rooted in ancient Chinese philosophy, the I Ching (also known as the Book of Changes) has guided seekers, scholars, and spiritual practitioners for over 3,000 years. This comprehensive book ...

The Aṣṭāvakra Gītā|also known as the Aṣṭāvakra Saṃhitā|is a short treatise on Advaita Vedānta|ascribed to the great sage Aṣṭāvakra. Sage Aṣṭāvakra demonstrates a profound knowledge of Brahman that Swami Nityaswarupanand of Ramakrishna Mission has placed before the readers in this book in simple|easy-to-understand English. The subtle philosophical truths are expounded in the form of a lucid dialogue between the teenage sage Aṣṭāvakra and his royal disciple|King Janaka.

Discover the timeless wisdom of Sikhism and bring spirituality into your daily life with A Year of Sikh Wisdom: 365 Reflections on Gurbani for Modern Living. This transformative guide offers a year-long journey through the sacred teachings of the Guru Granth Sahib, providing meaningful insights and practical applications to enrich your modern life.What You’ll Find Inside Daily Reflections: Explore a unique verse or teaching for every day of the year, drawn from the profound depths of Sikh scripture and the teachings of the Gurus. Practical Guidance: Learn how to apply the wisdom of ...

Daoist Way of Life: A Beginner’s Guide is your invitation to trade pressure for peace, confusion for clarity, and constant striving for a life that moves with ease. In a world obsessed with hustling harder, this book shows you the surprising power of doing less—and achieving more. The moment you open these pages, you’ll discover why Daoist wisdom has guided seekers, leaders, and thinkers for over two thousand years. Its principles aren’t mystical abstractions; they are practical, transformative tools anyone can use to live a calmer, more meaningful life. This is your roadmap to ...

The comprehensive and accurate edition of the Hagakure is a must-have for serious martial artists or fans of samurai and the Bushido code.

Unlock a world of wisdom, energy, and transformation with Falun Gong for Beginners: An Introduction to Energy, Movement, and Philosophy. This is more than a book—it’s an invitation to discover a life of balance, resilience, and profound spiritual growth. Are you ready to explore the ancient practice that has captivated millions worldwide? Transform Your Life with Core Values: Learn how truthfulness, compassion, and forbearance can reshape your mindset, improve your relationships, and help you navigate life with clarity and purpose. Experience the Power of Gentle Energy Movements: ...