Working with Karma: Understanding and Transforming Your Karma

by Gill Farrer-Halls

Karma is the spiritual philosophy at the heart of Buddhism, Hinduism, and other religions of the Indian subcontinent and it can be a confusing concept. It is, simply put, the totality of everything we have done, are doing, and will do, in this life, and in past and future existences. Written for those just beginning their exploration of karmic thought, this deeply contemplative guide explodes the myths and explains karma's true influence upon relationships, career, prosperity and health. Also, there are rituals to put ideas into practice, along with suggested meditations, a discussion of the 10 Positive Actions, and The Buddha's eight-step guide to spiritual awakening.

Genres: Philosophy

144 pages, Paperback

First published July 1, 2006

About the author

Gill Farrer-Halls is a practicing Buddhist who has spent time studying in India and Nepal during her career. She has published several Buddhism-related books as well as those focused on alternative therapies. Besides writing, Gill is a producer for London's Meridian Trust Buddhist Film and Video Archive, and she teaches aromatherapy, meditation, and spiritual-awareness workshops. Artist and writer Robert Beer is well-known for his colorful and detailed illustrations. He has studied and practiced Tibetan art for more than 30 years. His works appear in several hundred books on Tibetan Buddhist art and religion.

Reviews

[Alison Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really useful well produced book.
see http://thebooksmithblog.wordpress.com

[David Montoya · Rating 3 out of 5]

Sencillo pero sabroso.

[Veronique Der]

In Dutch

[Allison · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have several Buddhist friends and I'm one of those folks always curious to learn about different belief systems. "Karma" is one of those terms that has entered mainstream language but hasn't retained its original meaning - this book explains it in its original sense. It also provides concrete guided examples of meditation rituals. I found it very interesting, so much so that I actually intend to purchase my own copy of this book (something I rarely do at this point in my life).

I believe that even for folks who aren't interested in 'test-driving' Buddhism, the meditation exercises and simple wisdom conveyed through the explanation of karma given in this book can be helpful. Many of the exercises herein could very easily serve a different purpose completely - stress management. There is some mention of tarot reading and I-Ching reading that I was surprised to find but this not the focus of this book. However, for folks put off by the concept of reincarnation, and/or religion in general, this book can still be very helpful.

I believe that essentially, we all want to have more peace in our souls and whether one is Buddhist, Muslim, Southern Baptist, Wiccan, or atheist, or some other flavor of spiritual all together, the exercises and messages this book contains can be of benefit.

[Danny Kelly · Rating 3 out of 5]

Well, what can I say. This book begins assuming you already believe in karma and are totally willing to accept and believe in everything the book describes. As a skeptic myself, exploring buddhism is one thing, and although I believe living with karma in mind can't harm anyone, I also won't accept it as truth after reading this book.

[Leah · Rating 1 out of 5]

I don't agree with the "past lives" theory..... karma follows us from our "past lives".....she states that someone who is taken at a young age (child), is because that child must have murdered or have not protected others in their "previous life"....those who are weathly, were generous in previous life or lives......so on.....

I do not recommend this book.