Eastern Body, Western Mind

Synopsis

A revised edition of the groundbreaking New Age book that seamlessly merges Western psychology and science with spirituality, creating a compelling interpretation of the Eastern chakra system and its relevance for Westerners today

"A useful tool for contemplating our strengths, weaknesses, and appropriate approaches to growth."-Yoga Journal

In Eastern Body, Western Mind, chakra authority Anodea Judith brought a fresh approach to the yoga-based Eastern chakra system, adapting it to the Western framework of Jungian psychology, somatic therapy, childhood developmental theory, and metaphysics and applying the chakra system to important modern social realities and issues such as addiction, codependence, family dynamics, sexuality, and personal empowerment.

Arranged schematically, the book uses the inherent structure of the chakra system as a map upon which to chart our Western understanding of individual development. Each chapter focuses on a single chakra, starting with a description of its characteristics and then exploring its particular childhood developmental patterns, traumas and abuses, and how to heal and maintain balance.

Summary

Chapter 1: The Two Cultures

* Summary: Discusses the disconnect between Eastern and Western cultures in understanding the human body and mind. Western medicine focuses on the physical body, while Eastern traditions emphasize the interconnectedness of mind and body.
* Example: A Western doctor treating a patient with stress may prescribe medication, while a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner might recommend acupuncture to balance the patient's qi.

Chapter 2: The Body in Space

* Summary: Explores how the body is experienced and perceived differently in Eastern and Western cultures. Westerners tend to view the body as separate from the environment, while Eastern traditions emphasize the body as an integral part of its surroundings.
* Example: In Western art, the human figure is often depicted as a central, isolated subject, while in Eastern traditions, the body is often integrated into the background.

Chapter 3: The Body in Time

* Summary: Discusses the concept of time and how it influences the body and mind. Western cultures value linearity and progress, while Eastern traditions embrace the cyclical nature of life.
* Example: A Western doctor may treat a patient with a chronic illness as a linear progression of symptoms, while a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner might consider the patient's overall health history and lifestyle factors.

Chapter 4: The Body in Motion

* Summary: Explores the role of movement in shaping the body and mind. Western medicine focuses on the body's mechanics and function, while Eastern traditions emphasize the flow and energy of movement.
* Example: A Western physical therapist may focus on rehabilitating a patient's injured shoulder, while a tai chi instructor might teach the patient how to move their entire body in a harmonious way.

Chapter 5: The Body in Health and Sickness

* Summary: Discusses the different approaches to health and illness in Eastern and Western cultures. Western medicine emphasizes diagnosis and treatment, while Eastern traditions focus on prevention and holistic well-being.
* Example: A Western doctor may prescribe antibiotics to treat a bacterial infection, while a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner might recommend dietary changes and herbal remedies to strengthen the patient's immune system.

Chapter 6: The Body in Death

* Summary: Explores the different beliefs and practices surrounding death and the afterlife in Eastern and Western cultures. Western cultures tend to view death as a final end, while Eastern traditions believe in reincarnation and the interconnectedness of life and death.
* Example: In Western society, funerals often focus on mourning and the loss of the physical body, while in Eastern traditions, funerals may celebrate the person's life and the continuation of their spirit.