New and Notable
Some of these titles are not yet released, but order from Amazon.com today and they will send it to you as soon as it rolls off the press. To visit the publisher, Inner Traditions, click here. To return to Inner Traditions, Part I, click here.
Nei Kung: The Secret Teachings of the Warrior Sages
by Kosta Danaos
Book Description
Explains the art and science behind nei kung and how its dynamic use of yang energy distinguishes it from other practices that teach the mastery of c'hi.
* Establishes the existence and understanding of nei kung in the practices of many of the world's ancient cultures.
* Includes a step-by-step guide to the meditation that forms the basis of the practice of nei kung.
* By Kosta Danaos, author of The Magus of Java and apprentice to an immortal of the Mo-Pai tradition.
More than a decade ago, Kosta Danaos was accepted as an apprentice by John Chang, a Chinese-Javanese Taoist immortal and a master of nei kung. Unlike c'hi kung and other methods of mastering c'hi, nei kung uses the body's yin energy reserves to compress solar yang energy into the region of the body known as the dantien through meditation, breath retention, and physical exercises. The stored yang energy literally alters an individual's mental and physical makeup--it even modifies DNA structure--and gives the practitioner superior powers such as pyrokinesis, telekinesis, levitation, telepathy, and more.
At one time this practice was part of the working knowledge of shamans and martial artists throughout the world, but with the shifting of religious authority from shamans to priests the practice was abandoned and almost forgotten. Now, for the first time, modern readers are offered a step-by-step guide to the once-secret meditation practice that is the foundation of nei kung, the basis that, if followed regularly, allows control of yang energy--the first step on the path of becoming a Taoist immortal. With his engaging storytelling and clear, physics-based explanations for seemingly mystical phenomena, Kosta Danaos once again reveals the power of a practice that ultimately could transform our destructive, materialistic vision of the world to one based on cosmic principles--what the Chinese called the "will of Heaven."
The Pagan Mysteries of Halloween: Celebrating the Dark Half of the Year
by Jean Markale
Book Description
A comprehensive examination of the rituals and philosophies of the Celtic holiday of Samhain, the inspiration for Halloween.
* Presents the true meaning of this ancient holiday and shows how contemporary observances still faithfully reflect the rituals of pagan ancestors.
* Explains why this holiday, largely confined to the English-speaking world since the advent of Christianity, has spread throughout the rest of Europe over the last two decades.
One of humanity's most enduring myths is that the dead, on certain nights of the year, can leave the Other World and move freely about the land of the living. Every year on October 31, when the children of the world parade through the streets dressed as monsters, skeletons, and witches, they reenact a sacred ceremony whose roots extend to the dawn of time. By receiving gifts of sweets from strangers, the children establish, on a symbolic plane that exceeds their understanding, a fraternal exchange between the visible world and the invisible world. Author Jean Markale meticulously examines the rituals and ceremonies of ancient festivities on this holiday and shows how they still shape the customs of today's celebration. During the night of Samhain, the Celtic precursor of today's holiday, the borders between life and death were no longer regarded as insurmountable barriers. Two-way traffic was temporarily permitted between this world and the Other World, and the wealth and wisdom of the sidhe, or fairy folk, were available to the intrepid individuals who dared to enter their realm. Markale enriches our understanding of how the transition from the light to the dark half of the year was a moment in which time stopped and allowed the participants in the week-long festival to attain a level of consciousness not possible in everyday life, an experience we honor in our modern celebrations of Halloween.
The Peaceful Way: A Children's Guide to the Traditions of the Martial Arts
by Claudio A. Iedwab, Roxanne L. Standefer
Book Description
The first book on the hows and whys of martial arts practice written especially for children. * More than four million children study some form of martial arts in North America. * Explains the respectful, nonviolent discipline fundamental to all martial arts. * Shows young readers what to expect when they study a martial art--from beginner to Black Belt. * For children ages 8-12.
The Peaceful Way makes it clear that martial arts are not about fighting, rather they are about resolving conflict in life. The key word in the practice of martial arts is respect--for teachers, others, and self. By cultivating a positive attitude of humility, honesty, awareness, and discipline, the martial arts student gains both physical and mental focus.
In clear, simple language the authors lead young readers into the world of martial arts. From the leaving of shoes at the door of the dojo to the mastery of black-belt skills, they emphasize that a cooperative spirit is the key to success in any martial art. Each point is beautifully illustrated with graphics, sidebars, and anecdotes to hold the young reader's attention. Furthermore, its glossary and references for additional exploration make it the perfect educational tool for the young martial artist and a powerful resource for librarians, parents, teachers, and martial arts educators.
Power Animal Meditations: Shamanic Journeys With Your Spirit Allies
by Nicki Scully
Book Description
A collection of guided journeys and meditations to help the reader connect with and learn from power animals and spirit allies.
* More than 40 unique power animal and spirit guide meditations.
* Illustrated by the award-winning artist of Medicine Cards, Angela Werneke.
* 7 additional journeys going to new levels added since first edition.
What can the hawk teach you about your life purpose? What does the salmon know of fertile dreams, goal setting, and self actualization? Calling upon the magical wisdom of nature, Nicki Scully guides us into the spirit world of sacred totems, oracles, and animal teachings from many cultures, including Africa, Egypt, and North America. Encounter the archetypal wisdom teachings of Cobra, Eagle, Dolphin, Lioness, White Buffalo, Coyote, Cedar Tree, and many others. Each totem is exquisitely illustrated by Angela Werneke, the award-winning illustrator of Medicine Cards.
The Psychedelic Sacrament: Manna, Meditation, and Mystical Experience
by Daniel Merkur, Dan Merkur
Book Description
Reveals the secret teachings from the Judeo-Christian traditions that promote the use of psychedelic substances to enhance religious transcendence. * Explains how special meditations were designed to be performed while partaking of the "psychedelic sacrament". * By the author of The Mystery of Manna, Powers Which We Do Not Know, Gnosis, and The Ecstatic Imagination.
In The Mystery of Manna, religious historian Dan Merkur provided compelling evidence that the miraculous bread that God fed the Israelites in the wilderness was psychedelic, made from bread containing ergot--the psychoactive fungus containing the same chemicals from which LSD is made. Many religious authorities over the centuries have secretly known the identity and experience of manna and have left a rich record of their involvement with this sacred substance.
In The Psychedelic Sacrament, a companion work to The Mystery of Manna, Dan Merkur elucidates a body of Jewish and Christian writings especially devoted to this tradition of visionary mysticism. He discusses the specific teachings of Philo of Alexandria, Rabbi Moses Maimonides, and St. Bernard of Clairvaux that refer to special meditations designed to be performed while partaking of the "psychedelic sacrament." These meditations combine the revelatory power of psychedelics with the rational exercise of the mind, enabling the seeker to achieve a qualitatively enhanced state of religious transcendence. The Psychedelic Sacrament sheds new light on the use of psychedelics in the Western mystery tradition and deepens our understanding of the human desire for divine union.
How to Read Signs and Omens in Everyday Life
by Sarvananda, Ph.D. Bluestone
Book Description
Discover your psychic powers and learn to use the wonders of nature and the world around you as magical tools of divination.
* Practical and enjoyable exercises help readers reconnect with their innate psychic sensitivity.
* Includes 75 methods and practices of divination from around the world.
Since the beginning of time, diviners and seers have been finding signs and omens in the world around them--in pools of water, tea leaves, delicate patterns of cracked animal bones, and the ripples of clouds in the sky. Because these observers have been able to tap into a deeper level of awareness, they have come to sense hidden truths in powerful and mysterious ways. In modern times we call those who possess these abilities "psychic," but native cultures accepted that each of us has an innate sixth sense and can learn how to read the forces of nature that appear before us.
In this fascinating and enlightening guide, historian and psychic Sarvananda Bluestone shows us how our innate knowledge can be rediscovered, allowing us to become far more in tune with our surroundings than we ever dreamed possible. He teaches us to use everyday objects and the wonders of nature as magical tools that offer a window into the future--and ourselves. Whether watching birds cross the morning sky or divining the subtle energies of the earth, you will see the world in an entirely new light. Filled with practical exercises, How to Read Signs and Omens in Everyday Life demonstrates how the discovery of the power within ourselves requires nothing more than a little guidance and a willingness to see.
Call of the Great Spirit: The Shamanic Life and Teachings of Medicine Grizzly Bear
by Bobby Lake-Thom
Book Description
A traditional Native American healer from the Karuk tribe shares his personal story of reconnection to the Great Spirit in contemporary America.
* By Bobby Lake-Thom, author of the bestseller Native Healer.
* Provides Native American shamanic perspective on disease and healing.
* Explores indigenous social identity in a spiritual and political context.
* Reveals authentic indigenous traditions and ceremonies from numerous tribes.
This redemption story of Native American healer Bobby Lake-Thom invites the reader to enter a world of authentic indigenous traditions and ceremonies. Bobby, also known as Medicine Grizzly Bear, didn't recognize his shamanic calling at first. He didn't know that his vivid dreams, psychic abilities, and visitations by wild animals and ghostly figures were calls from the Great Spirit.
In the age-old shamanic tradition, it took a near-death experience for the message to get through to him. Though still a young man, he was wracked with debilitating arthritis. Unable to handle the physical and psychic pain, he set out into the wilderness determined to kill himself with an overdose of drugs and alcohol. But before downing the substances, he approximated a Native American ceremony as best he could, sending a heartfelt prayer for assistance to the Great Spirit. He woke up--alive--the next morning and received a message from Eagle, telling him to seek help from Wahsek, a medicine man in the northern mountains. And so Bobby's apprenticeship began. Forbidden to reveal Wahsek's secrets until 10 years after his death, Bobby is now free to share this fascinating story with the world.
About the Author Bobby Lake-Thom (Medicine Grizzly Bear) is a traditional native healer and spiritual teacher trained by 16 medicine men and women from different tribes. He lectures, conducts workshops, and has doctored hundreds of people from all walks of life. He has also served as Professor for Native American Studies at Humbolt State University and as an Indian affairs specialist for numerous Indian tribes and organizations in the United States. He lives in California.
Tai Chi for Kids: Move With the Animals
by Stuart Alve Olson
Book Description
The first tai chi book exclusively for children ages 4 to 8.
* Uses children's delight in imitating animals to teach the eight basic tai chi forms essential for health.
* Each exercise is accompanied by colorful artwork and photographs of the author's 7-year-old son demonstrating postures.
* Written as a story to invite imaginative play and learning.
* Designed for children and parents to play with together and for independent learning by older children.
Qigong Teachings of a Taoist Immortal: The Eight Essential Exercises of Master Li Ching-Yun
by Stuart Alve Olson
Book Description
The first English translation of Master Li Ching-yun's teachings on the Eight Brocades, the central practice of qigong.
* Explains the physical and spiritual benefits of the Eight Brocades and offers step-by-step instructions for this powerful sequence of postures.
* 85 illustrations highlight the postures and philosophies.
* Author's commentary provides insight and depth to the original translation.
Throughout history Taoists have promoted the development and restoration of the Three Treasures-- body, breath, and spirit--through the gentle practice of qigong. At the center of the qigong practice are the Eight Brocades, a series of postures that developed during the 3,000-year Taoist quest for longevity and vitality. Now qigong expert Stuart Olson translates into English Master Li Ching-yun's treasured teachings on the Eight Brocades. One of the most famous qigong masters of this century, Master Li Ching-yun is reliably chronicled to have lived more than 250 years, during which he practiced the Eight Brocades on a daily basis. His longevity and personal endorsements attest to and validate the Eight Brocades as the quintessence of Taoist health and qigong practices.
With Master Li Ching-yun's original teachings as a guide, Stuart Olson presents an authentic yet accessible approach to this unique practice. Each exercise is accompanied by original text from Master Li, step-by-step instructions for each posture, illustrations of the positions, and insights on theory and practice. Because the Eight Brocades are the foundation of all qigong, this book provides valuable advice for all practitioners, regardless of the style they practice or the depth of their experience.
The Practice of Tibetan Meditation: Exercises, Visualizations, and Mantras for Health and Well-Being
by Lama Dagsay Tulku Rinpoche
Book Description
A practical and comprehensive step-by-step handbook to Tibetan meditation from a world-renowned Tibetan Lama.
* Contains more than 30 meditation exercises and accompanying mantras for both the beginner and the more advanced practitioner.
* Includes a 60-minute CD of mantras to accompany each meditation.
* Incorporates Tibetan breath work, massage techniques, and physical exercises.
For centuries, Tibetan Lamas have transmitted spiritual knowledge through the teachings of mind-training meditation, although many of these teachings remain relatively unknown in the West. Lama Dagsay Tulku Rinpoche now shares these rare jewels of Tibetan wisdom in an easy and accessible manner, leading the Western reader toward the path of true happiness.
Lama Dagsay Tulku's teachings range from introductory sessions designed to create an oasis of calmness in daily life to deep practices for cleansing and healing. He also offers traditional meditations to prepare for death, the ultimate transition. True to the rich sensory nature of Tibetan Buddhism, these meditations are enhanced with instructions for relaxing massage and an accompanying 60-minute CD of mantras.
About the Author Born in the Tibetan village of Tartsedo in 1936, Lama Dagsay Tulku was discovered and recognized as the reincarnation of the previous Dagsay Tulku and brought to the famous Chokri monastery in eastern Tibet, where he came to serve as Chief Lama. Escaping persecution in 1959, he traveled to India, where he continued his studies and practice until, upon the request of the Dalai Lama, he accepted a post as the spiritual leader to a small community of Tibetan settlers in Switzerland, where he currently resides. Lama Dagsay Tulku teaches courses in Buddhist meditation and performs blessings and initiations. In addition to introducing the West to the spiritual practices of Tibet, he has been actively involved in the rebuilding of the Chokri Monastery in his homeland.
The Toltec Path of Recapitulation: Healing Your Past to Free Your Soul
by Victor Sanchez
Book Description
A ten-step technique, based on the teachings of the Toltecs, that allows the reader to heal from traumatic life events and emerge with new energy and direction. * Introduces the practice of Recapitulation, a method used by the indigenous people of Mexico to restore balance to the psyche. * Ideal for people suffering the effects of childhood trauma, broken relationships, abuse, depression, anxiety, and other psychological stresses. * Written by Victor Sanchez, author of The Teachings of Don Carlos.
What if it were possible to revisit the traumatic or difficult events of our past and emerge renewed, re-energized, and healed from the damage left within us by these events? The practice of Recapitulation can do just this through a series of energetic exercises that can ultimately free us from the repetitive emotional conflicts and persistent negative patterns that often result from trauma.
Victor Sanchez shares with the reader both the philosophy and practical applications of this ancient Toltec technique. Anyone who has lived through a long, difficult experience--perhaps a serious illness, broken relationship, sexual abuse, or a childhood spent in a divisive family environment--can benefit from this process. Recapitulation makes it possible to actually relive and resolve the events that have caused emotional distress. In this clear and straightforward workbook, the author guides readers through the ten steps of Recapitulation and invites them to experience the powerful and positive new energy that results from healing the wounds of the past. The Toltec Path of Recapitulation offers an ancient ritual of renewal for the contemporary world.
About the Author Victor Sanchez has dedicated his life to the preservation of the traditions of the indigenous peoples of Mexico with whom he has lived for 15 years. He is the author of The Teachings of Don Carlos and Toltecs of the New Millenium and conducts workshops worldwide. He lives in central Mexico.
Sacred Geometry Oracle Deck
by Francene Hart
Amazon description:
The first divination tool based on the ancient science and sacred language of geometry.
* A 64-card deck with original artwork by Francene Hart.
* Allows readers to balance their energy fields and access higher levels of consciousness.
* Comprehensive guide includes spreads, card explanations, and reflective insights from a wide variety of sacred traditions.
Sacred geometry is the key that unlocks all of the world's art, science, and architecture. Called the language of light, its images and shapes are embedded in DNA, mandalas, pyramids, crystals, atoms, and hieroglyphs. Anyone who has ever gazed at a spider's web, meditated on a mandala or yantra, visited a pyramid, walked a labyrinth, or peered through a microscope has felt the effects of sacred geometry. Now the Sacred Geometry Oracle Deck introduces an entirely new way for you to gain access to this wisdom and unlock its power.
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