Books For Inner Development

The selections in this compilation provide an overview of the meaning, nature, and processes of inner development. These include the first awakening of consciousness, the basic requisites and initial stages of inner growth, the individual means and methods to grow in consciousness, some of the difficulties and pitfalls along the way, and the eventual new birth into a spiritual life that comes from a reversal of consciousness. The focus of the book is inner growth as an experiential process based on certain universal psychological elements and principles, and its purpose is to help seekers understand and recognise the processes and experiences of inner development and foster its growth in their lives.

The focus of this book is the spiritual work in the "school"--the community--of Michael. What does this mean? At the end of the eighteenth century, the Archangel Michael revealed the new mystery that has manifested on Earth as spiritual science, or anthroposophy. Its essence involves the renewal of our knowledge of the mysteries of karma and human destiny. Those who are drawn to this school have a special relationship to the human faculty of thinking--their inner feeling for truth has the strength of iron. This feeling for truth helps them to become companions of Michael at the threshold of the spiritual world. These talks deal with the spiritual path of anthroposophy in its Christian Rosicrudian aspect. Tomberg speaks openly and honestly about meditation, the various stages of consciousness (imagination, inspiration, and intuition), the "guardian of the threshold," and the esoteric trials one encounters along the way. He concludes by describing the life of Rudolf Steiner as the life of a Christian initiate.

Rudolf Steiner is perhaps best known for his influence and wisdom in the fields of education, agriculture, medicine, science, and art. It is often forgotten that it was as a spiritual teacher that he made these contributions. Unfortunately, while his immediate students had the advantage of Steiner as a personal guide to their inner lives, later readers have had only his written works to guide them. Steiner, however, did give a few lectures on inner development--especially on beginning a path of practice. This book now collects these lectures--some of which have never been in English--for the first time. It also contains a number of the basic meditations and exercises shared by Steiner with his students. Here readers will find descriptions of various practical exercises, including exercises for the moral qualities that students must develop, and for the various qualities of consciousness that inner development requires. This book is not only for beginners. Wherever you are on the path, this book will be your companion. CONTENTS: Introduction by Christopher Bamford 1. The Inner Life 2. The Path 3. First Steps 4. Ways to Inner Development (extracts) Six Essential Exercises The Three Ways The Christian Way 5. How Does the Soul Find Its True Being? Bibliography

Thousands of years ago, the Greek philosopher Socrates argued that "The unexamined life is not worth living." In Self-Development and the Way to Power, author L.W. Rogers expounds on that contention, arguing that individuals must work constantly to grow, to develop, and to achieve our full potential. This self-help classic is a must-read for every reader who is bound and determined to make the most out of life.

"A profound, insightful, extensively researched, sensitive and much needed essay which provides a precious roadmap for traveling together towards a better world" – Mathieu Ricard What would a wisdom-based or “spiritual” approach to politics look like? How can we tap into science to support our collective conscious evolution? In this groundbreaking work, Thomas Legrand Ph.D. proposes to fundamentally reframe our model of development from its current emphasis on “having” to one focused on “being”. Mobilizing a wealth of scientific research from many different fields, the core teachings of wisdom traditions, and his own personal experience, Legrand articulates how politics can support human flourishing and the collective shift of consciousness that our current challenges demand. An awakening journey into our human and social potential, Politics of Being charts the way for a truly human development in the 21st century, one to reconcile our minds and hearts, and the whole Earth community. Decision and policy-makers, scholars, sustainability and spiritual practitioners, social activists and citizens will benefit from: - an integral map of such a politics as it emerges; - concrete examples and recommendations in numerous areas ranging from education to governance, to justice and economy; - a complex question converted into a clear and tangible agenda; - a wealth of references to deepen their exploration; - and much more. A unique, field-defining, work on what may be the most important subject of our times… and history!

“My sincere hope is that everyone will read this treasure trove of essential inner knowledge. This book is a magnificent accomplishment." -- Caroline Myss, author of Anatomy of the Spirit Alchemy is the science of transformation—how to change one thing into something else. In The Alchemy of Inner Work, Dechar and Fox examine how illness, suffering, and dis-ease—the “lead” of our lives—can become the “gold” of our authentic selves, and the key to good health and well-being. Drawing on traditional Chinese medicine, Eastern and Western alchemical traditions, Kabbalah, and Jungian psychology—plus case studies from working with patients—the authors provide hands-on insights for bringing “the soul of medicine” back into our lives. The book includes: A simple introduction to the ancient practices and principles alchemy How the alchemical model offers a profoundly new path to true health and well-being An array of practices for removing the barriers that block our own healing energy An invitation to alchemical “dream work” as a support on the path of healing

A complete guide to awakening your full potential, CENTERING offers techniques that help you take charge of your destiny. Through a process of consciousness expansion, this book shows how to enhance learning power; heighten awareness of the world around you; discover new talents and how to use them; relieve stress; increase career satisfaction and financial security; enjoy better health and more fulfilling relationships; and even more.