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

By Anodea Judith

Book Overview

A revised edition of the groundbreaking New Age book that seamlessly merges Western psychology and science with spirituality, creating a compelling interpretation of the Eastern chakra system and its relevance for Westerners today

"A useful tool for contemplating our strengths, weaknesses, and appropriate approaches to growth."--Yoga Journal

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

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 and then exploring its particular childhood developmental patterns, traumas and abuses, and how to heal and maintain balance.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1587612259
• ISBN13: 9781587612251
• Release Date: August 2004
• Publisher: Ten Speed Press
• Length: 512 Pages
• Weight: 1.39 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.4" x 5.9" x 8.8"

Customer Reviews

Profound - And Needed

I have to say, this author knows her stuff. As I've learned from reading many of her books, she has long had a history of studying the chakra system. Through personal experience, she has adapted some of the esoteric systems with her own style, which are discussed more fully within her books. This book in particular is an important one. In our culture, we all suffer abuses of some kind or another, even abuses we probably wouldn't consider abuse. Take noise pollution for example - it's a real assault on your senses, although we drown it out and let our body deal with the consequences. But this book deals with the heavier stuff too - relationship issues, physical or sexual abuse, eating disorders, mental imbalances, whatever it may be, it's probably covered in this book. And what I have noticed is this author really knows what she's talking about - she provides insights I have not heard come from anyone else in my entire life. I strongly encourage this book to everyone, regardless of who you are. This is a book for humanity.

A map of the human psyche

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.

One of the best, most comprehensive books on this subject!

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!

In-depth yet readable

I love how easy this book is to read. It reads as easily as a novel, yet contains a wealth of information about human growth and development as it pertains to the chakra system. I highly recommend it!