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Essential Spirituality: The 7 Central Practices to Awaken Heart and Mind
Based on over twenty years of research and spiritual practice, this is a groundbreaking and life-changing book. In his decades of study, Dr. Roger Walsh has discovered that each of the great spiritual traditions has both a common goal and seven common practices to reach that recognizing the sacred and divine that exist both within and around us. Filled with stories, exercises, meditations, myths, prayers, and practical advice, Essential Spirituality shows how you can integrate these seven principles into one truly rewarding way of life in which kindness, love, joy, peace, vision, wisdom, and generosity become an ever-growing part of everything you do.
320 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1999
148 people are currently reading
918 people want to read
About the author
Roger Walsh
30 books31 followersDr. Roger N. Walsh, MD, Ph.D., is an Australian professor of Psychiatry, Philosophy and Anthropology at the University of California, Irvine, in the Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, within UCI's College of Medicine. Walsh is respected for his views on psychoactive drugs and altered states of consciousness in relation with the religious/spiritual experience, and has been quoted in the media regarding psychology, spirituality, and the medical effects of meditation.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
March 10, 2012
I did not want this book to end because each and every time I opened it I got a shot of truth, inspiration, spiritual growth and insights. I was interested in learning the ways the seven major world religions agree on core issues--enough so Dr. Walsh was able to come up with seven practices to transform yourself and benefit others. The exercises are amazing and do transform your thinking, beliefs and philosophy at times. The meditations are widely varied and effective. (This book wiped away my problems with meditation and broke it down simply and still reverently.)
This is a spiritual book. It is not a religious book except to acquaint the reader with some interesting tidbits about various religions. You can learn of religions' basic core beliefs and teachings before they went south and alienated so many churchgoers for a variety of reasons you might already know or can read here.
I believe an agnostic or even an atheist could get a lot out of this book. There is no proselytizing or Bible rants. It is not a Christian book, nor a Buddhist nor a Muslim. It is the core of true spirituality.
It talks about mindfulness, of course, and I really appreciated the section on mindful eating. "Seeing the Sacred In All Things" became my new goal along with many others. I journalled so much of the book and its exercises and things it made me aware of; i.e. I wanted to write out my philosophy of life because we all have them and they impact on us whether we gave them careful thought or even conscious thought or not.
I could go on and on about this brilliant, loving, compassionate, unpretentious (even though the author is a M.D., Ph.D.) exciting, vital book that blows all the nambie-pambie dust off of spiritual ideas that religions have lost in their marketing, wars, infighting, etc.
I took this book out of the library, but soon realized I wanted to mark it up, highlight passages, write in the margins, and keep it forever or until I meet someone who wants to read it and doesn't mind my marks. It is a wonderful addition to my collection of books on spirituality.
This is a spiritual book. It is not a religious book except to acquaint the reader with some interesting tidbits about various religions. You can learn of religions' basic core beliefs and teachings before they went south and alienated so many churchgoers for a variety of reasons you might already know or can read here.
I believe an agnostic or even an atheist could get a lot out of this book. There is no proselytizing or Bible rants. It is not a Christian book, nor a Buddhist nor a Muslim. It is the core of true spirituality.
It talks about mindfulness, of course, and I really appreciated the section on mindful eating. "Seeing the Sacred In All Things" became my new goal along with many others. I journalled so much of the book and its exercises and things it made me aware of; i.e. I wanted to write out my philosophy of life because we all have them and they impact on us whether we gave them careful thought or even conscious thought or not.
I could go on and on about this brilliant, loving, compassionate, unpretentious (even though the author is a M.D., Ph.D.) exciting, vital book that blows all the nambie-pambie dust off of spiritual ideas that religions have lost in their marketing, wars, infighting, etc.
I took this book out of the library, but soon realized I wanted to mark it up, highlight passages, write in the margins, and keep it forever or until I meet someone who wants to read it and doesn't mind my marks. It is a wonderful addition to my collection of books on spirituality.
October 28, 2009
I know Dr. Walsh personally from my time at UC Irvine. He gave me a copy of this book and I must say... if you want a definitive book on the basics of spiritual growth, this is it. He speaks as a psychiatrist, a professor, an M.D., and a human being. His writing is clear and the entire book flows so easily and quickly. This book and Thich Nhat Hanh's "Peace is Every Step" are easily the foundations of my spiritual practice.
January 19, 2014
Something beautiful, and truly astounding to me, happened as a result of one of the meditation exercises from this book.
It was a short meditation focusing on love. It's pleasant, even fun to do, and it gives a peaceful feeling as you bring loved ones to mind, tell them an encouraging message, and visualize them smiling back at you. Anyway, afterwards I blew out a tea light I had lit for the session, and looked at it to find that the pastel green wax had collected much darker around the wick, forming the shape of a perfect heart. I have lit many a candle in my day, but never had I seen one do THAT. I felt it was a gift~ a kind of nudge to continue on in the practice of simply loving. Consequently, my first meditation on love is something I will always remember fondly.
Something I love about this book is the similarities it draws from several major religions and practices. It's my personal belief that they should never be at war with each other; one should never feel it is the only true way, that other ways are false and will end in souls doomed for punishment. Rather, we can see that they each foster the same themes of goodness, which all ultimately lead to living a life of compassion for others. One of my favorite quotes is from the Prophet Muhammad:
"There are as many paths to God as there are human breaths."
I learned much about my mind and how I constantly keep it feeling guilty, worried, or afraid. The moment I started to relax, I'd feel a pang of anxiety rush through, as if I am conditioned to constantly punish myself~ to prevent myself from feeling peace. This book has shown me that fears don't exist; only now exists and every moment is a new chance to cultivate positive feelings. Love, compassion, generosity, peace. It's wonderful to begin to understand that there is never any real reason to fear.
I come away from this book with new inspiration to achieve my goals. I can let go of my attachments, take joy in giving to and serving others, cultivate loving compassion for humankind, continue seeing the sacred in nature and its creatures, and eventually, I hope to see God in everyone, and in myself.
It was a short meditation focusing on love. It's pleasant, even fun to do, and it gives a peaceful feeling as you bring loved ones to mind, tell them an encouraging message, and visualize them smiling back at you. Anyway, afterwards I blew out a tea light I had lit for the session, and looked at it to find that the pastel green wax had collected much darker around the wick, forming the shape of a perfect heart. I have lit many a candle in my day, but never had I seen one do THAT. I felt it was a gift~ a kind of nudge to continue on in the practice of simply loving. Consequently, my first meditation on love is something I will always remember fondly.
Something I love about this book is the similarities it draws from several major religions and practices. It's my personal belief that they should never be at war with each other; one should never feel it is the only true way, that other ways are false and will end in souls doomed for punishment. Rather, we can see that they each foster the same themes of goodness, which all ultimately lead to living a life of compassion for others. One of my favorite quotes is from the Prophet Muhammad:
"There are as many paths to God as there are human breaths."
I learned much about my mind and how I constantly keep it feeling guilty, worried, or afraid. The moment I started to relax, I'd feel a pang of anxiety rush through, as if I am conditioned to constantly punish myself~ to prevent myself from feeling peace. This book has shown me that fears don't exist; only now exists and every moment is a new chance to cultivate positive feelings. Love, compassion, generosity, peace. It's wonderful to begin to understand that there is never any real reason to fear.
I come away from this book with new inspiration to achieve my goals. I can let go of my attachments, take joy in giving to and serving others, cultivate loving compassion for humankind, continue seeing the sacred in nature and its creatures, and eventually, I hope to see God in everyone, and in myself.
March 7, 2019
DNF at p. 85, after he describes faith-healing his daughter, although he doesn't call it that. ----- Up to that point I thought it was a good beginner book for seekers of a wider idea of spirituality, as it gave a decent overview of the major concepts & historical thinkers. Then I came upon that bit I mentioned, & I was done. I'd been put off by a lot of references to "God," although they weren't specifically references to the god of any particular religion, but I'd let those go thinking that perhaps some readers new to these concepts might need that familiar conceptual reference point. Then p. 85 happened, like I said, & I'm out.
November 2, 2014
Walsh does an excellent job of teasing out 7 practices from the world's religions, describing why they are important and giving exercises that you can do to bring spirituality into your life. I really appreciate the type of practices he suggests as they can fit into your current lifestyle(no need to become a hermit, monk or nun). These are practical practices I plan to include in my life forever. This book has helped me to eat healthier, as I learn to release my addictions.
June 28, 2010
Explores the sameness of all major religions. We are much more alike than we know.
January 25, 2022
My "can't sleep" book for over a year, and both on its own and for that purpose, it's wonderful. The idea is: what are some major ideas and practices that run through the world's major religions that promote personal and community wellbeing. You need not be religious, either formally or informally, to appreciate this. Walsh organizes and explains the practices expertly, using quotes and a couple of cultural parables, and providing basically a bulleted list for each central practice that can promote meaning and value. I'd recently read Trauma Stewardship, which I found to be a slog because it's 80% "The world is broken, your fight to fix it is nearly impossible, and here's what that's doing to your psyche," and 20% "Here are some healing practices." If you're looking for some help and comfort, that ratio is demoralizing. This book is 95% healing practices, which are better and more concretely described.
August 10, 2019
This is an essential book. Written in accessible language, it describes and synthesizes the 7 central practices common to the world’s great religions. The book is inspiring as well as instructional. There is everyday wisdom soaring to Truth on almost every page.
Dr. Roger Walsh conveys these practices with gentle spaciousness. Seen through his lens, (he is a psychiatrist, a psychologist, and a seasoned practitioner of these exercises) Walsh seamlessly orchestrates complicated material and illustrates with teaching stories. His writing encourages implementation.
For anyone on a Path, who has ever had doubts along the way, this book will offer experiential suggestions which will take you further. This is a book not to be read once, but to be savored and re-tasted along the way.
Dr. Roger Walsh conveys these practices with gentle spaciousness. Seen through his lens, (he is a psychiatrist, a psychologist, and a seasoned practitioner of these exercises) Walsh seamlessly orchestrates complicated material and illustrates with teaching stories. His writing encourages implementation.
For anyone on a Path, who has ever had doubts along the way, this book will offer experiential suggestions which will take you further. This is a book not to be read once, but to be savored and re-tasted along the way.
February 10, 2022
While not per se a bad piece of work, it felt quite old and out of date—even for a book written in the year 2000. It contains many allusions to metaphysical idealism and perennialism, which I don't think we have any reasons to be sure about, but which the author expresses in terms of being absolute givens. I can nevertheless understand how some might enjoy this book and the practices it prescribes, but for me personally, this one was a letdown.
March 28, 2023
One of the most profound books and writing I have ever come across. I have read a lot in my lifetime and can confidently say this is the one singular book that has impacted me the most. It drastically changed many factors for me, and I will definitely be re-reading it in due time. I found myself highlighting every single sentence and was truly sad the book had to end. For anyone interested in spirituality and/or how to apply spiritual concepts in their everyday life, this book is for you.
March 12, 2020
Pivotal. A rite of passage
I do quite a lot of spiritual reading. Few sources have impressed me as deeply as this one.
I especially appreciate how wonderfully referenced it is...replete with citations from so many sacred traditions. Brilliant. ANY reader can come here and be affirmed in one's belief.
Thank you Roger.
I do quite a lot of spiritual reading. Few sources have impressed me as deeply as this one.
I especially appreciate how wonderfully referenced it is...replete with citations from so many sacred traditions. Brilliant. ANY reader can come here and be affirmed in one's belief.
Thank you Roger.
January 13, 2021
Read this for a book study group. These practices will become part of my daily life I hope. It is clear, well organized and uplifting. I wish I had bought the hard copy instead of Kindle because it's a book one wants to come back to often over time.
January 31, 2022
Informative, but on a beginner's level. As someone who has been practicing spirituality for a few years and doing research prior to this book, a lot of the information was repetitive for me. Still a great reference though!
January 29, 2025
This is a perfect book for someone beginning their spirituality journey. Walsh explains what it means to be spiritual and how to strengthen one's spiritual practice along with insights and quotations from religious figures throughout history.
May 28, 2019
inspiring, life-changing, motivational and so calming.
March 30, 2024
This book has practical exercises which could help people connect to their own spirituality. As in all work of this type, humble perseverance is beneficial.
November 29, 2024
Spiritually uplifting
March 27, 2026
foundational
December 15, 2016
4.5 stars. This was a very good book. I would have given it 5 stars but the last quarter of the book wasn't as captivating for me and I couldn't concentrate on it. Need to reread this. I enjoyed the topics of training our minds, self awareness (mindfulness), and knowing ourselves\self acceptance.
Some key points: What we put into our minds is just as important (if not more, I think) as what we put into our mouths. Mediation helps us have greater empathy towards others. Being self aware includes truly knowing yourself. To know ourselves is to recognize that we are far, far more than we believe. What we get from each moment depends on the quality of attention we give it. Self acceptance means working on our shortcomings as well as not being cruel to ourselves because of our weaknesses.
Some key points: What we put into our minds is just as important (if not more, I think) as what we put into our mouths. Mediation helps us have greater empathy towards others. Being self aware includes truly knowing yourself. To know ourselves is to recognize that we are far, far more than we believe. What we get from each moment depends on the quality of attention we give it. Self acceptance means working on our shortcomings as well as not being cruel to ourselves because of our weaknesses.
May 30, 2015
What a fantastic book! Essential Spirituality describes 7 "Central Practices" that if practiced with dedication and over time will transform the practitioner. Walsh draws from all of the great world wisdom traditions, sprinkling his book with quotes and stories. One of this book's greatest virtues is its practicality. Anybody can do these practices anywhere, for free, and over time they will gain so much in their personal development. Examples include meditation, mindful eating and working, service to others, mindful driving, giving, and many more.
The book is well organized and highly readable. Walsh's writing is clear and engaging. And doing the practices in this book does not require "Belief" or "Faith." Walsh has found some of the greatest activities found in most great religions, distilled practices one can do from them in everyday life, and shown how the doing of these practices leads to wisdom, joy and love. An inspiring read, whatever your religious background, or even with no faith at all! I have gifted this great book to many whom I care about.
The book is well organized and highly readable. Walsh's writing is clear and engaging. And doing the practices in this book does not require "Belief" or "Faith." Walsh has found some of the greatest activities found in most great religions, distilled practices one can do from them in everyday life, and shown how the doing of these practices leads to wisdom, joy and love. An inspiring read, whatever your religious background, or even with no faith at all! I have gifted this great book to many whom I care about.
May 26, 2012
A Dr's perspective on spirituality - secular and lot of common sense good advice
Science and Religion
Science unable to examine subjective experiences, meaning and purpose
Really a war between pseudoscience (materialism) vs pseudo religion (dogmas and manipulated claims)
Becoming dogmatic can turn us into mechanical beings
Story: person asked to deliver electric shocks, will obey and do as told
Awakening of compassion, mental comfort
Clarify awareness
Ethics
Meditation unveiled
Service to others
7 principles
Science and Religion
Science unable to examine subjective experiences, meaning and purpose
Really a war between pseudoscience (materialism) vs pseudo religion (dogmas and manipulated claims)
Becoming dogmatic can turn us into mechanical beings
Story: person asked to deliver electric shocks, will obey and do as told
Awakening of compassion, mental comfort
Clarify awareness
Ethics
Meditation unveiled
Service to others
7 principles
May 6, 2015
„Over time it becomes increasingly obvious that the happiness of others is our own and that to practice for the benefit of all is not a sacrifice but rather a delight. Our spiritual work not only helps us but is, according to Ramana Maharshi, "the best help you can possibly render to others." Our task is simply to do our practice as fully as we can. In this way we gradually learn to awaken ourselves, to love and serve life in all its infinite forms, to see the sacred in all things, and to care for our troubled world.”
June 30, 2015
I love that the author has a background in both science and psychology. This book offers many practical, action-oriented applications to every day human struggles which can help us live a more ethical existence. He pulls theology from all the great religions, but the book is far from religious. It is practical for anyone no matter what your beliefs. It is a very in-depth study on becoming more mindful and conscious in our every day living.
April 18, 2015
Great book that explains spirituality---not religion. It focuses on identifying seven core spiritual practices that are part of all religions, such as ethics, concentration, wisdom, service, and peace. It also provides the reader with exercises on how to live a spiritual life.
March 29, 2016
It helps me a lot
It's a easy reading book that starts with spiritual practices that makes you reflect about your whole life and them set you in the right way to improve every aspect of your daily journey that affects you in some way.
It's a easy reading book that starts with spiritual practices that makes you reflect about your whole life and them set you in the right way to improve every aspect of your daily journey that affects you in some way.
June 30, 2018
It was okay. I didn't find anything new or enthralling to keep me interested, though, I've been around so much information regarding spirituality and the person within that it's difficult to find anything new.
Read
June 5, 2009I skimmed this book at the library. I looks like a nice introduction to spiritual practises, but did not resinate with my current needs.
June 28, 2009
Forgiving is the most important bcs of yourself to be free.Find friends who are truthful. Push out mental rubbish.Your body is the castle of your spirit.Be master of your minds, but not slave.
July 7, 2009
A recipe book of things to do when you want to feel more grounded and alert to your surroundings.
Want to read
August 24, 2011Haven't read it yet, but I'm currently taking a meditation course from him on-campus, so I'm looking forward to learning more through his book!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews