Our Inner Ocean

This book describes ancient and new holistic modalities of practitioner-applied bodywork and revitalizing self-care practices that illuminate our human potential and awaken our ability to attain and maintain perfect health and well-being.

Good health is something we all aspire to, but it’s so much more than just being free of disease. A perfectly functioning body, tranquil mind, and vibrant spirit working together harmoniously create the joy and happiness that put the good in good health and the worth into a life worth living. Our Inner Ocean describes ancient and new holistic modalities of practitioner-applied bodywork and revitalizing self-care practices. These illuminate our human potential and awaken our ability to attain and maintain perfect health and well-being. These modalities act as a springboard from which to dive into our inner ocean—the realm of wisdom within that is entered by making the body, breath, and energy our allies. This mystical space of awareness, intuition, peace, and love can become the resting place of the spirit, subtly working its magic on ourselves and others. Bodywork has long been recognized as a way to help people feel better physically, but the magic of touch can also help us tap in to the wisdom of the body, discover the power of the energy that permeates it, and evoke its innate healing ability. Self-care practices such as yoga, qi gong, breathwork, and meditation help us become our own healers. When we pass through these portals into the inner ocean, we can reduce stress and pain, release blockages, prevent and resolve dysfunctions, and ignite our spiritual nature. And in doing so, we make the world a better place.

" What is the meaning of individualism in a modern democracy? In this rich and penetrating book, a major political theorist examines the nature of individualism—the concept of self it implies, the ethic it sustains, the personal connectedness it supports, and the politics it requires—and provides a challenging answer. George Kateb argues that democracy is founded on respect for the dignity of individuals as individuals, and that this respect transforms all human relations. Democratic individuality, in his view, is a way in which individuals whose rights are protected may dare to live their private lives and to conceive their roles as citizens. Kateb employs the concept of individuality not only to criticize communitarianism and to define the limits of the role of the state, but also to approach global concerns involving our relation to nature. The ten essays of this book explore democratic individuality in light of such topics as the power of political institutions to accommodate and express different values, the moral distinctiveness of representative democracy, the implications of the liberal social contract, and the possibility of human extinction. Eloquently addressing issues at the heart of democratic life, The Inner Ocean will be of vital interest to scholars and students in American studies, political theory, and moral philosophy.

Unlock your hidden potential with this practical and approachable introduction to self-directed inquiry--the main meditative practice of the Diamond Approach. Much like the ocean, each of us has inner depths: an entire world beneath the surface of everyday living pulsing with beauty, life, and mystery. The secret depths of our inner worlds are the very things that we spend our lives searching for: love, support, belonging, meaning, joy, and freedom. Through a contemplative practice known as diamond inquiry, you can begin to directly explore your conscious experience just like a diver exploring a reef. You'll discover wondrous treasures and terrifying sights alike, as well as infinite expanses, and limitless potential and freedom. Diamond inquiry combines the depth of meditation with the power of understanding and psychological insight. Guided by your own curiosity, you use a variety of questions to explore your present-moment experience as it unfolds, deepens, and transforms. This method was developed by A. H. Almaas, founder of the Diamond Approach, though the practice is ideal for anyone who wants to explore their inner world. Dominic C. Liber introduces this powerful tool along with step-by-step exercises to develop your understanding. Through this simple yet profound practice, in time every situation will become a doorway to realizing and actualizing deep insight and transformation.

The oceans, and the challenges they face, are so vast that it’s easy to feel powerless to protect them. 50 Ways to Save the Ocean, written by veteran environmental journalist David Helvarg, focuses on practical, easily-implemented actions everyone can take to protect and conserve this vital resource. Well-researched, personal, and sometimes whimsical, the book addresses daily choices that affect the ocean's health: what fish should and should not be eaten; how and where to vacation; storm drains and driveway run-off; protecting local water tables; proper diving, surfing, and tide pool etiquette; and supporting local marine education. Helvarg also looks at what can be done to stir the waters of seemingly daunting issues such as toxic pollutant runoff; protecting wetlands and sanctuaries; keeping oil rigs off shore; saving reef environments; and replenishing fish reserves.

In this eminently readable, evocatively photographed volume, best-selling author Raphael Cushnir provides a simpleand holistic path to achieving lasting peace of mind and body. Through a series of short, deceptively approachable essays, Cushnir details the day-to-day practices that comprise the foundation of a stress-free life. Cushnir's signature mix of personal anecdote and approachable metaphor ensures that each of his 18 lessons rings home. In the spirit of Cushnir's popular How Now: 100 Ways to Celebrate the Present Moment, Surfing Your Inner Sea is a guidebook, a resource, and a wellspring of practical inspiration.

Recounting a five-year journey that encompassed every country and island of the "Inner Sea"--from the mountains of Morocco to the monasteries of Mt. Athos, the bloodstained streets of Beirut, the slums of Naples, and beyond--Fox offers an astonishingly vivid human mosaic that answers the questions, "Who are the new Mediterraneans, and what is the future of their world?"