Mind, Body & Spirit

Ten years ago, in his bestselling Ethics for a New Millennium, the Dalai Lama first proposed an approach to ethics based on universal rather than religious principles. Now, in Beyond Religion, he elaborates on and deepens his vision for the nonreligious way. This is a stirring call to move beyond religion for guidance on improving human life at individual, community, and global levels, and includes a guided meditation practice for cultivating key human values.

“This delightful book is bound to be the Gold Standard by which all other books on science/spirituality will be measured. Bold, refreshing, lucid, and insightful, this thoughtful collection of essays seeks to unveil the mysterious of our very existence. Is there a purpose to the universe? What is our true role in the cosmos? This book dares to ask some of the deepest, most profound questions about our very existence, and comes up with some surprising, even shocking answers.” —Michio Kaku

Best-selling author Andrew Weil returns with a guide to peak emotional wellness. Drawing upon techniques from Ayurveda, Buddhism, acupuncture, psychotherapy, mindfulness training, and much more, Dr. Weil offers advice on lifestyle, behavior, and dietary changes, and helps readers assess their own emotional wellness and build step-by-step plans to manage their moods. “A comprehensive roadmap for the prized path to true happiness….Weil provides sensible, accessible advice…. Immensely beneficial information for those seeking a self-galvanized life lift.” —Kirkus Reviews

I became a fan of Kate Braestrup when I read Here If You Need Me, her memoir about following her husband’s footsteps to become a public chaplain after he died. Braestrup was not particularly religious, nor could she imagine herself as one of the only women in a world that was dominated by men, but because of these obstacles, her journey is singular and true. In Beginner’s Grace, Braestrup discusses the concept of prayer and how it is both profound and simple. She offers the idea that prayer is about connection, and that it is universal and a way into mindfulness, slowing down, and reaching out. She draws on views about prayer from many faiths and from her own experience of having to reach a multitude of people with different backgrounds at her job. I loved this book for everything it wasn’t—and instead, for all that it offered.

Donna Johnson grew up amongst the wood chips and giant circus tents of a sawdust preacher and faith healer while her mother played the organ. Years after the movement’s downfall, events inspired her to recount her history and explore the ways that it sparked her struggle with faith. This is an eloquent memoir, both funny and moving, a highly unique perspective on an experience that all but vanished with the advent of megachurches.

In his new book, Martin assures us that God wants us to experience joy, to cultivate a sense of holy humor, and to laugh at life’s absurdities—not to mention our own humanity. Father Martin, “official chaplain” of The Colbert Report, invites believers to rediscover the importance of humor and laughter in our daily lives and to embrace an essential truth: Faith leads to joy. “Winsome and comical but also provocative and thoughtful, Martin’s book is a breath of fresh air for those who would take religion—and themselves—too seriously.” —Publishers Weekly