Find Inspiration, learn something new.
Find Inspiration, learn something new.
Remember.
Reading and writing are our avenues to remembering. Through every story we learn the humanness that is present within every one of us. Immerse yourself in a story that helps you find your way back home.
Take a peek below at some of my favorite books that have shaped my personal journey towards self-discovery.
The Journey Home
"The Journey Home" by Radhanath Swami is an autobiography full of mind-bending twists and turns. This captivating memoir follows his spiritual quest full of adventure through Europe, the Middle East, and finally to India.
After numerous obstacles and a heart wrenching desire to visit India, he journeys through the Himalayas, along the Yamuna River, Vrindavan, and more. Traveling mostly by foot without any money, he shares the many challenges and sometimes hard-to-believe encounters with various spiritual teachers and traditions along the way.
Chants of a Lifetime
"Chants of a Lifetime" by Krishna Das is a spiritual memoir that tells the story of Krishna Das’s journey from a musician in New York City to becoming a renowned kirtan singer and spiritual teacher.
Krishna Das’s personality shines through this story, with his anecdotes and insights leading the way. His exploration of chanting and the power of Bhakti shines through his story with his love of Maharaj-ji (Neem Karoli Baba) at the forefront.
The Bhagavad Gita As It Is
Swami Prabhupadaji provides detailed explanations of each verse with each purport integrating philosophical insights and practical guidance for living a life of devotion and spiritual discipline to Krishna.
His rendition is full of timeless wisdom that makes the Gita accessible to a modern audience while thoughtfully preserving its traditional spiritual essence.
Yoga Sutras of Patanjali
Swami Satchidananda’s commentary provides insights into the philosophy and practice of yoga through his unique lens. The sutras are described in a clear and accessible manner, making complex concepts understandable for modern readers.
This commentary is used throughout many teacher trainings for its clear and concise descriptions that make the sutras accessible to all. Throughout this book readers learn the importance of the eightfold path of yoga, including: ethical principles, physical postures, breath control, and meditation.
It’s Here Now, (Are You?)
"It's Here Now (Are You?)" by Bhagavan Das is a memoir that spans from his humble upbringing as a California hippie to a spiritual seeker in India. Relatable, funny, and real, this memoir will have you feeling like you wish you could be on the journey with him.
This humorous and hard to believe story details his experiences with various gurus as well as fellow spiritual seekers. Along with Ram Das and Krishna Das, he shares his exploration of Eastern spiritual practices and love for their renowned teacher Neem Karoli Baba.
Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance
As Pirsig searches for the meaning of life, the reader is also left pondering the philosophical debates offered in this story. Part autobiography, philosophy, and firsthand accounts of the travel across the country, this book leaves you questioning the profundity of human existence and the meaning of life
Autobiography of a Yogi
This powerful and insightful story offers the reader a jaw dropping memoir as well as a deeper look into the principles of yoga and meditation. Yogananda emphasizes the unity of all religions and the potential for divine realization similar to Swami Satchidananda.
Kailash Journal
"Kailash Journal" by Swami Satchidananda is a spiritual memoir documenting his pilgrimage to Mount Kailash as well as the surrounding areas.
This short read captures the physical and spiritual challenges faced during his journey. As a former resident of Swami Satchidananda’s Ashram at Yogaville, I found it fascinating to read about his early travels through India and Tibet prior to his prominent role of Guru.
Inner Engineering
Sadhguru combines insights from ancient yogic science with a modern spin, emphasizing the importance of aligning the body, mind, and energy for a harmonious life. This funny and down-to-earth book provides techniques and practices for self-awareness and inner growth.
A Return to Love
Full of practical advice and personal reflections on how to shift from fear to love in various aspects of life, Marianne leaves the reader with epiphany after epiphany on how to navigate life through the lens of love.
Whether you are looking to transform your relationships, work, or find more depth and connection to your inner world, this book continues to amaze me year after year.