In 'The Anxious Generation', Jonathan Haidt examines the sudden decline in the mental health of adolescents starting in the early 2010s. He attributes this decline to the shift from a 'play-based childhood' to a 'phone-based childhood', highlighting mechanisms such as sleep deprivation, attention fragmentation, addiction, loneliness, social contagion, and perfectionism that interfere with children’s social and neurological development. Haidt proposes four simple rules to address this issue: no smartphones before high school, no social media before age 16, phone-free schools, and more opportunities for independence, free play, and responsibility. The book offers a clear call to action for parents, teachers, schools, tech companies, and governments to restore a more humane childhood and end the epidemic of mental illness among youth.
Be Here Now is a seminal book on spirituality, yoga, and meditation written by Ram Dass. The book is divided into four sections: 'Journey', which details Ram Dass's transformation from a Harvard psychologist to a spiritual seeker; 'From Bindu to Ojas', a core section that includes spiritual themes and inspirational quotes; 'Cookbook for a Sacred Life', a manual for conscious living with practical advice on meditation, yoga, and diet; and 'Painted Cakes (Do Not Satisfy Hunger)', a list of recommended books for further spiritual exploration. The book emphasizes the importance of living in the present moment, shedding ego and material attachments, and finding unity with the divine through unconditional love and mindfulness[2][4][5].
This book redefines age-old concepts of masculinity by arguing that mature masculinity is not abusive or domineering, but rather generative, creative, and empowering. Jungian analysts Robert Moore and Douglas Gillette identify and define the four mature male archetypes: the King (just and creative ordering), the Warrior (aggressive but nonviolent action), the Magician (initiation and transformation), and the Lover (connection to others and the world). They also explore the four immature patterns that interfere with masculine potential: the divine child, oedipal child, trickster, and hero. The book is an exploratory journey to help men and women deepen their understanding of the masculine psyche.
In 'Flourish', Martin E.P. Seligman presents a new concept of well-being that goes beyond traditional psychology's focus on alleviating suffering. He introduces the PERMA model, which consists of Positive Emotion, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning, and Accomplishment. These pillars are essential for a life of profound fulfillment. The book discusses how these elements can be applied in various aspects of life, including education, economics, therapy, and public policy. It also includes inspiring stories of Positive Psychology in action, such as the U.S. Army's training in emotional resilience and innovative school programs. Seligman's work is grounded in extensive research and provides practical exercises for readers to explore their own attitudes and aims.
This book presents a stunning collection of Hafiz's most intimate poems, translated and interpreted by Daniel Ladinsky. It imparts the wonderful qualities of Hafiz as a spiritual teacher, including an audacious love, profound knowledge, wild generosity, and a sweet, playful genius. The poems explore themes of the beloved, faith, and exposing hypocrisy, and are known for their ability to encourage love, happiness, and a deep spiritual connection. Although Ladinsky's renderings are not traditional translations but rather modern interpretations, they have been praised for their accessibility and timeless appeal[1][3][4].
Pat Sperry shares his approach to flourishing through the “Five Pillars of Well-being” and explores how transformative travel experiences, cultural immersion, and ancient practices can help you find fulfillment and well-being on the road and in everyday life.
Pat Sperry is a professional well-being coach, Iyengar yoga teacher, and founder of Flourish—a community that creates healing and transformational experiences through elevated retreats and online education, empowering individuals to live with purpose and compassion.
Pat shares his unique journey from being an athlete, musician, and even David Beckham’s body double to traveling the globe and becoming a leader in personal growth and well-being. You’ll hear about the lessons he learned from studying with spiritual masters and spending time at the Five Immortals Temple in China. From tips on cultivating mindfulness to building a life of meaning, Pat’s insights offer actionable steps on using travel for deeper purpose and connection.
What’s the most life-changing travel experience you’ve had? I'd love to hear about it, and I hope you’ll share by sending me an audio message.
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Tune In To Learn:
- Pat’s fascinating journey from a career in sports and music to a life dedicated to self-discovery
- How his travels and immersive cultural experiences through places like Thailand, China, and India reshaped his views on life, purpose, and fulfillment
- Pat’s philosophy of “traveling light” and how simplifying his life while on the road helped him cultivate gratitude and inner peace
- The concept of the “hedonic treadmill” and insight on how to balance chasing new experiences with finding peace in the present
- An in-depth look at the “Five Pillars of Well-being” and how each can be activated through travel and everyday life
- Why rites of passage matter and how they differ across global cultures
- How to align your travel experiences with personal growth goals and values
- And so much more
Resources:
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