Magick Matters

“Buddhist Biology: Ancient Eastern Wisdom Meets Modern Western Science” by David P. Barash

"Many high-profile public intellectuals — including "New Atheists" like Richard Dawkins, Daniel Dennett, and the late Christopher Hitchens — have argued that religion and science are deeply antagonistic, representing two world views that are utterly incompatible. David Barash, a renowned biologist with forty years of experience, largely agrees with them, but with one very big exception: Buddhism. In this fascinating book, David Barash highlights the intriguing common ground between scientific and religious thought, illuminating the many parallels between biology and Buddhism, allowing readers to see both in a new way. Indeed, he shows that there are numerous places where Buddhist and biological perspectives coincide and reinforce each other. For instance, the cornerstone ecological concept —...>>

“Buddhism Without Beliefs: A Contemporary Guide to Awakening” by Stephen Batchelor

"A national bestseller and acclaimed guide to Buddhism for beginners and practitioners alike In this simple but important volume, Stephen Batchelor reminds us that the Buddha was not a mystic who claimed privileged, esoteric knowledge of the universe, but a man who challenged us to understand the nature of anguish, let go of its origins, and bring into being a way of life that is available to us all. The concepts and practices of Buddhism, says Batchelor, are not something to believe in but something to do—and as he explains clearly and compellingly, it is a practice that we can engage in, regardless of our background or beliefs, as we live every day on the...>>

“The Buddha Walks into a Bar…: A Guide to Life for a New Generation”

"A guide to Buddhism for 20-somethings who are grappling with the ups and downs of adulthood—from an eloquent and funny young teacher This isn’t your grandmother’s book on meditation. The Buddha Walks Into a Bar... is about integrating that "spiritual practice thing" into a life that includes beer, sex, social media, and a boss who doesn’t understand you. It’s about making a difference in yourself and making a difference in your world, whether you’ve got everything figured out yet or not. This is Buddhism for a new generation—one that is leaving the safe growth spurts of college and entering a turbulent, uncertain workforce. With humor and candor, teacher Lodro Rinzler offers an introduction to...>>

“Heavily Meditated: Your Down-to-Earth Guide to Learning Meditation and Getting High on Life” by Caitlin Cady

"Heavily Meditated has everything you need to know to get hooked on meditation for good. Presented in a simple, friendly, accessible style that even the busiest of meditation-doubters can relate to, this book clearly outlines: What meditation is Five fundamental meditation techniques (and which one is right for you) Where, when and how to sit How to deal with thoughts Why meditation is so damn good for you How to measure your meditation practice How to set goals and get hooked on meditation How to upgrade your practice from habit...>>

“The Power of Sound: How to Be Healthy and Productive Using Music and Sound” by Joshua Leeds (updated 2nd edition)

"Customize your sound environment for a better quality of life • Shows how to use music and sound to reduce stress, enhance learning, and improve performance • Provides detailed guidelines for musicians and health care professionals What we hear, and how we process it, has a far greater impact on our daily living than we realize. From the womb to the moment we die we are surrounded by sound, and what we hear can either energize or deplete our nervous systems. It is no exaggeration to say that what goes into our ears can harm us or heal us. Joshua Leeds—a pioneer in the application of music for health, learning, and productivity—explains how sound can be a powerful...>>