We can’t possibly review all the wonderful books we receive, so every issue features several that look particularly intriguing. This quartet of approaches to enlightened living includes the sublime to what could be considered mundane: recycling your poop.
Sacred Jewels of Yoga
Wisdom from India’s Beloved Scriptures, Teachers, Masters and Monks
Ed. by Dave DeLuca
Some morning are easier than others to actually still the body (and cortisol) enough to start a meditation. But a piece of sacred text can be just the thing to either slide you into something longer, or quickly center you for a short, concise period of time. Rather than having to shuffle through several books, you can use this compilation to access many illuminated verses in one place. You could page through for a title that strikes your fancy, or simply trust that you’ll open to “the right verse for today,” which can bring unexpected insights. For example, I opened to: “Still your mind in me . . . If you lack the will . . . engage yourself in . . . selfless service.” There. Done. (New World Library)
Serious Fun
Ingenious Improvisations on Money, Food, Waste, Water & Home
By Carolyn North
Sustainability may be serious business, but woohoo, can we have fun doing it! Author Carolyn North clearly takes great pleasure in saving the planet, and her choice offerings are a great way to reignite your own sense of pleasure in the task. For example, where else can you read about the joys of a doorless outhouse? Or directions for building a scavenged “sound sculpture”? Or even inspiration to tear up your paved driveway? There’s a lot of emphasis on poop—“Except for breathing, defecating is probably the most intimate exchange we have with the natural world,” writes North; and food (can’t wait to try her leftover Thanksgiving turkey fritters). She provides plenty of sobering facts, but her packaging is pure delight. (Findhorn)
Your Guide to Earth’s Pivotal Years
A Direct Path to Enlightened Living
By Selacia
There is no question as to whether the earth is changing or if humankind will face extraordinary challenges, but as always, the devil—or in this case, the light—is in the details. Author Selacia, formerly an international journalist, was fortunate to recognize at a very early age that many of the answers lie within. Now she shares her spiritual guidance and wisdom in a step-by-step process for understanding shifting paradigms and finding your individual path through coming changes and potential crises. From demystifying the process of choice to recognizing truth, she outlines guidance for heart-centered living in both practical matters—e.g. relationships, dealing with illness, making sense of violence—and for shifting your personal mission to stay in alignment with coming changes. (iUniverse)
Someone to Talk To
Understanding How Therapy Heals
By Joyce Houser
Half a century ago, anyone who wanted to talk to a professional about his problems had basically two choices: a psychiatrist or a minister. Now, of course, there’s a full range of therapies available, but for whatever reason, some people still feel embarrassed about seeking help with their life challenges. Santa Monica psychotherapist Joyce Houser, who has been in private practice for more than 20 years, takes the reader through the process of talk therapy, sharing many anecdotes of others who have struggled with common issues. She details her own first steps in finding help, and makes suggestions for others who are in pain. Therapy—or any healing process—is a journey, and it’s important to have guides you can trust. Houser can help you recognize them. (Motivational Press)
