I have personally adopted many of the practices Rupert describes in
his book and experienced more love, joy, empathy, gratitude, and
equanimity as a result. We are all indebted to Rupert, who has
tirelessly brought us deep insights from both science and spirituality."
―Deepak Chopra
The effects of spiritual practices are now being investigated
scientifically as never before, and many studies have shown that
religious and spiritual practices generally make people happier and
healthier. In this pioneering book, Rupert Sheldrake shows how science
helps validate seven practices on which many religions are built, and
which are part of our common human heritage: meditation, gratitude,
connecting with nature, relating to plants, rituals, singing and
chanting, and pilgrimage and holy places.
Sheldrake summarizes the latest scientific research on what happens when
we take part in these practices, and suggests ways that readers can
explore these fields for themselves. For those who are religious,
Science and Spiritual Practices will illuminate the evolutionary
origins of their own traditions and give a new appreciation of their
power. For the nonreligious, this book will show how the core practices
of spirituality are accessible to all.
This is a book for anyone who suspects that in the drive toward radical
secularism, something valuable has been left behind. Rupert Sheldrake
compellingly argues that by opening ourselves to the spiritual
dimension, we may find the strength to live more fulfilling lives.
