Passage Meditation: Bringing the Deep Wisdom of the Heart Into Daily Life

I first read this book in search of a method of meditation I could actually practice on a daily basis. I was struck by the clarity and common-sense approach of Eknath Easwaran. Each time I re-read the book, I'm amazed at the depth that is hidden in what seem like very simple, obvious guidelines to meditation and related spiritual practices. This book is not a comparison of different forms of meditation or an in-depth discussion about sitting in meditation. However, if you are hoping to read a book that you can put into practical use, you will soon find what seems basic on the surface leads to an amazingly effective method of meditation and a very rich set of spiritual tools that you can actually use in your daily life. Meditation (in any style) is a practice that involves training your mind and directing your attention. Anyone who meditates daily will find it artificial to try to separate the period of time in which you meditate in the morning from the rest of what you think, say, and do during the day. The practices described in this book actually address this connection in a wholistic, down-to-earth way. Another attraction this book has for me is that the method described in this book honors all religions and does not require the reader to change his or her religious affiliation to be able to meditate.

I recently finished this book and thought it a good place to start if one is having troubles with multi tasking or asking themselves some deeper questions about life. In my experience I have found that some people want to slow down and develop harmony within themselves, they read the words yet don't apply it to their lives. Eknath Easwaran takes you though each level of higher (inner) conscienceness if you are willing to follow,accept and apply it. I particularly enjoyed how one can reach for and obtain unconditional love, unheard of in the psychology world where unconditional love is only between parent and child, that adult love can not be so. He speaks about basic morals in our day to day encounters with others, our spouses, and the world in general, more importantly, for one to be aware that ones actions affects others. On speaking, the suggestion is to ask ones self three questions. First, "are these words true", secondly "are these words necessary", and thirdly "are these words kind". Imagine those with uncontrollable road rage asking themselves this! I have practiced this art of "single mindedness" throughout my life, not able to put it into words. This book reaffirmed me that I am on the right path. A pure delight to read and reflect upon, written in a comprehensive manner and from a person who practices what he preaches. Prayers for meditation at the end are helpful. Hopefully we all will find the right person to share a life that is emotionally rich and empowering, full of mutual love and respect. It starts with you.

If you have been wanting to learn how to meditate this audio is excellent! It was taped at Berkeley during a course Eknath Easwaran was teaching to college students. The steps are easy to follow and his presentation is very entertaining. Not what I expected from an audio on meditation. It takes the hocus-pocus out of the idea of meditation. It is something anyone can do, if they desire it and discipline their mind. I have listened to my tapes several times and learn something new each time I play them. I recommend it highly.

I came across Easwaran's book after having read a few others on the subject - nothing comes close to this one in making the concept of meditation come alive in the minds of people who are not clear on the subject. Easwaran has the knack of getting to the heart of the matter in a flash, and then gently explaining the concepts in a simple fashion, with wry, and sometimes subtle. This is a book by a man who's been there, and done that. Highly recommended for any individual who wants to try to rise above the stress and strain of daily life.

Given today's glut of "new age gurus," it's comforting to find a wise soul like Easwaran. In completely unpretentious, lucid, and humorous prose he describes how meditation and its allied principles will instantly transform your life. MEDITATION does not promise overnight change. Easwaran, rather, says in blunt terms that it's hard work to meditate on the scriptures each morning, put others first, and give one-pointed attention to every detail of our life. The difficulty lies in the fact that these principles go against our conditioning. But I and many other faithful individuals will ensure that this book will dramatically change your life if you give it the chance. To paraphrase the Buddha, Don't go by blind faith, try it out yourself and see if it works. I assure you the journey will be prosperous.