Eastern Body, Western Mind: Psychology and the Chakra System as a Path to the Self [Paperback]

Judith Anodea (Author)

Book Description

Release date: March 1, 2004

In EASTERN BODY, WESTERN MIND, chakra authority Anodea Judith brought a fresh approach to the yoga-based Eastern chakra system, adapting it to the Western framework of Jungian psychology, somatic therapy, childhood developmental theory, and metaphysics. This groundbreaking work in transpersonal psychology has been revised and redesigned for a more accessible presentation. Arranged schematically, the book uses the inherent structure of the chakra system as a map upon which to chart our Western understanding of individual development. Each chapter focuses on a single chakra, starting with a description of its characteristics, then exploring its particular childhood developmental patterns, traumas and abuses, and how to heal and maintain balance. Illuminated with personal anecdotes and case studies, EASTERN BODY, WESTERN MIND seamlessly merges the East and West, science and philosophy, and psychology and spirituality into a compelling interpretation of the chakra system and its relevance for Westerners today.

Revised edition of the groundbreaking New Age book that seamlessly integrates Western psychology and the Eastern chakra system, including a new introduction from the author.

Applies the chakra system to important modern social realities and issues such as addiction, codependence, family dynamics, sexuality, and personal empowerment.

Previous edition has sold more than 55,000 copies.

Editorial Reviews

From Library Journal

Judith (Sevenfold Journey, LJ 4/1/93), a healer, elucidates the chakra system and how it shapes and is shaped by human behavior. The seven chakras, or human biocomputer, are located at various levels of our bodies. The chakras start with survival (at the base of the spine), followed by sexuality (lower back), power (solar plexus), love (heart area), communication (throat), intuition (brow), and cognition (crown). Giving an understanding of the chakras and their corresponding psychological character, Judith then invites the reader to explore multidimensional healing processes to bring the chakras into balance. To provide illustrations of practical applications, she offers personal stories. Although her book contains a lot of information, it is user-friendly, allowing the reader to view pertinent chapters through the use of subtitles and reference charts. Like Rickie Moore's Goddess in My Shoes (Humanics, 1988), this work would be popular in New Age collections.?L. Kriz, West Des Moines Lib., Iowa
Copyright 1997 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Review

Rather than presenting an esoteric borrowing from Indian culture, Judith employs the metaphoric language of the chakra system within the context of modern psychology. Her clear organization and numerous charts make browsing for subjects of personal relevance a breeze, and her comparison of the various maps of psychological development (Freudian, Piagetian, Eriksonian, Reichian, and others) is intriguing. The book provides a useful tool for contemplating our strengths, weaknesses, and appropriate approaches to growth. -Yoga Journal". . . [S]parkles with insight. Spiritual seeker, client, and therapist alike will find treasures here."-PanGaia magazine

See all Editorial Reviews

Product Details

• Paperback: 502 pages
• Publisher: Celestial Arts (March 1, 2004)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 9780890878156
• ISBN-13: 978-0890878156
• ASIN: 0890878153
• Product Dimensions: 9.1 x 6.1 x 1.5 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.3 pounds
• Average Customer Review: 4.7 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (17 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #174,800 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)
  • #38 in Books > Politics & Social Sciences > Philosophy > Eastern > Indian
  • #48 in Books > Religion & Spirituality > Hinduism > Chakras

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

46 of 48 people found the following review helpful

5.0 out of 5 stars A map of the human psyche January 24, 2000

By A Customer

Format:Paperback

I loved this book - I found so much of myself in it, it was scary! I really think she has found a way to map the human spirit - and gives gentle encouragement and exercises to assist in healing any parts that have been blocked or damaged. Anyone who is even mildly interested in the Chakras (or even looking to deepen a yoga experience) should consider this book.

34 of 37 people found the following review helpful

5.0 out of 5 stars Fantastic read, can't put it down September 14, 1999

By A Customer

Format:Paperback

This book clearly summarizes the chakra energy systems and links them to psychological information that is incredibly useful and insightful. I can't say enough good things about this book.....it is very illuminating and the author has put an enormous amount of work into the research. It is easily read, thought provoking and her charts of the different personality types and what causes the different types to develop as a result of childhood trauma is very well done.... I found this book to be inspiring and extremely well written.

36 of 41 people found the following review helpful

5.0 out of 5 stars One of the best, most comprehensive books on this subject! January 20, 2000

By Michelle Hughes

Format:Paperback

I would recommend this,"Hands of Light" by Barbara Brennan, and "Energy Medicine" by Donna Eden as the best books for those interested in managing their energy. All three give concrete examples of causes of dis-ease and ways to reverse damage to our energy systems. In Anodea's book, she gives physical, mental, and spiritual exercises to work on and she makes the information easy to understand!