The Books That Changed My Mind
A growing list of recommended enlightening reading…
This is by no means an exhaustive list nor inclusive of all the books I’ve read that I loved. But all of these expanded my mind. This list is also limited to my range of literary exposure, time and what genuinely impacted me. I hope you find value in this curated selection of esoteric and provocative writing as I did. These books often crossed my path at pivotal moments or were discovered in unexpected metaphysical shops. You can treat this page as a little online occult library. Many of these selections were challenging for me to understand but that is also the beauty. So, I would encourage you, if so inclined, to choose one that calls to you and take your time with the physical copy like the old days. Make it a companion for a stretch of your journey, write in it and contemplate. These are not in any particular order and when more titles are added, they appear near the top…
Women Who Run with the Wolves by Clarissa Pinkola Estes, Ph.D.
Storytelling is a profound art that can be a form of initiation into higher states of consciousness or a powerful method of learning. Dr. Estes blends this art with Jungian pschyoanalysis. In a gentle and lovingly supportive way, the reader is guided back to nature and healing. Some concepts that struck me are the risks of overdosed intellect, talking is the voice of humans, singing is the voice of spirit, and on the 8th day God created dancing. She explains mythological themes like the desert as symbolic of the alienation we are likely to encounter, like a desert growing up without love. But then reveals the lessons from the small things that grow. “If you live long enought, the culture will see the truth of your eccentricity and embrace it.”
Sadhana: The Realization of Life by Rabindranath Tagore
Tagore was a 20th centure Indian Bengali poet and Nobel Laureate. Sadhana was his masterful attempt at English prose. He is as much a spiritual influence as a musical one because he wrote transcendent songs in a collection known as Gitanjali. Sadhana loosely translate as “spiritual discipline” but is such a deep philosophical concept. This book is a collection of essays and Chapter 3: “The Problem of Evil” hit hard and really transformed my understanding of human flaws and cruelty. It offered me a whole new lens with which to investigate my mistakes and those of civilization.
The Fire Next Time by James Baldwin
"The finest essay I’ve ever read.” —Ta-Nehisi Coates. Whether you decide to read this or another of Baldwin’s works, I just think it is important for his voice to continue to resound in modern society. He is so vulnerable, honest but coming from a place of love and hope. Even reviewing hashtags of his quotes circulating on social media can transform your attitude. Here is one: “There is reason, after all, that some people wish to colonize the moon, and others dance before it as an ancient friend” or “The purpose of art is to lay bare the questions that have been hidden by the answers” or “If everyone had been in love they’d treat their children differently. They’d treat each other differently."
The Wandering Taoist by Ming-Dao Deng
I believe this story is mostly historical fiction but a fascinating adventure nonetheless. The author takes you into the world of a Taoist monastic as he encounters various masters and lessons. It takes you deeper into concepts like the power of yin energy and other practices associated with the martial arts. Sometimes a good story teaches us more than non-fiction.
The Art of Being by Erich Fromm
This book got me pondering being vs having. It is not an argument against owning possessions but more about understanding modes of existence. While we may have a home or a family or a career, how do we experience these cirumstance and how present can we be, especially considering the brevity and uncertainty of life?
The Denial of Death by Ernest Becker
Winner of the 1974 Pulitzer Prize, Becker’s seminal work confronts the last taboo, death, in a raw and rational manner. If you check this out, maybe just digest bits and pieces to help you wade in this difficult subject to talk about but inevitable for everyone. A concept that resonated with me was the “immortality projects” that most people are unwittingly engaged in, which may yield deeper insight to the why of life.
The Will to Change: Men, Masculinity, and Love by bell hooks
This book is about what the patriarchy does to men. It is intense and thought-provoking and a manual for social transformation. Women who read will also likely experience a validation in their being. For me, it was powerful to reflect on my privilege from the perspective of a woman of color.
The Tao of Physics by Fritjof Capra
This was helpful for me to have some way to approach quantum physics and Eastern mysticism as a lay person. “Physicists do not need mysticism,” Dr. Capra says, “and mystics do not need physics, but humanity needs both.” Many years later, the message is still meaningful and that’s hard to achieve for very long with a book about science.
The Vodou Quantum Leap by Reginald Crowsley
Alternate realities, power and mysticism - this book, much like Capra’s Tao of Physics, parralels the mysteries of quantum physics but instead with Voodoo. More importantly, it’s a better introduction to the historically mistreated religion of Haiti which combines elements of indigenous wisdom and African spirituality.
Earth by Frank Townshend
This book was published in 1938 and contains the simple, honest observations of probably a fully awakened but sincerely humble man during his travels around the world. The second part contains a vision of the earth. Both sections are strikingly beautiful and pure. This collection of poetic reflections seems to be out of print and I’ve occasionally seen used copies appear on Amazon - sometimes going for hundreds of dollars. I’ve given away multiple copies over the years and thankful that I still have one. If you can get a copy, it’s worth the investment.
Dokkodo (The Way of Aloneness) by Miyamoto Musashi
Musashi was a 17th century samurai and kensei or sword-saint. Surviving 65 duels to the death, his insights about the nature of awareness probably have value for anyone. This short treatise was offered to his student right before his death in 1645. So, I believe it is intended for a warrior and therefore many precepts may seem impractical for us. However, if even one resonates and can be implemented resolutely, one’s life can embody resilience and have the character of a modern warrior in the face of modern problems.
Ecstatic Poems by Kabir (translated by Robert Bly)
Much like Rumi or Hafiz, these poems reach all the way to the heart and stir the soul. Kabir was a weaver by day and mystic by night. His real eloquence was weaving with knowledge, devotion and right action and making the resolution of the deepest existential concerns acccessible to students of Islam and Hinduisim in the region of his time.
I Am That by Sri Nisargadatta Maharaj
This is a book that I will probably never finish because every few paragraphs or so can penetrate layers of mental noise. Then, you just want to sit with those concepts or rather with the absence of some illusory lens. And just enjoy the unraveled peace. It’s a powerful modern classic and the question/answer format like Talks with Ramana support the transmission.
Spiritual Enlightenment: The Damnedest Thing by Jed McKenna
I don’t know how authentic the author is or if this autobiographical account is pure fiction or if a Jed even exists as opposed to a group hiding behind the pseudonym. It doesn’t really matter though. The ideas and questions that arise in the dialogues can and will challenge your notions of spirituality. Do you want to be “spiritual” or do you really want to know what’s true. Good to know the difference and can save a lot of time and regret.
The Myth of Sisyphus by Albert Camus
Camus is certainly not for everyone. And this book is borderline disturbing but it was mind-bending and provocative. While I’m pretty sure I disagree with his views, his brand of courage would be necessary to ascertain anything true about the human condition for oneself and exposes how passive our understanding of existence can be. His concept of “the absurd” and how suicide is the first and most serious philosophical debate provide a framework for existential therapy.
Letters to a Young Poet by Rainer Maria Rilke
Rainer Maria Rilke is one of the most significant German voices of all time. I know this is from an actual correspondence with aspiring writer Franz Kappus but it would be just as impactful if it was just poetry or self-reflection. At first, it was confused by the passion but then came to realize this is how a man on fire lives - ecstatically. I don’t mean happy, especially since this is a treatise on the stark realization of aloneness, but rather full on aliveness. You can start here and then it may become a choose your adventure with his other writings like the Book of Hours or follow other literary threads prescribed by Rilke himself.
I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou
After poetry, autobiographies have had the most significant impact on my mind and life and with Maya Angelou, you get both. I didn’t think to include this at first because it’s such a famous modern American classic but it’s necessary reading for every generation of Americans to come. I was struck by the pain and power of transformation and that’s what I take away more than details now as I often find myself reflecting on her legacy of love. As she expressed, people will forget what you said but not how you made them feel. I felt inspired and concerned for the world.
The Big Red Book by Rumi (translated by Coleman Barks)
I mean, what else is needed really? All the magic and wisdom of the spiritual life can be found in Rumi’s great masterpiece celebrating mystical love and friendship. It’s probably more accurate to say it will find you. Another new poem and another from him see to arrive at the right time.
House of Light by Mary Oliver
The winner of the 1984 Pulitzer Prize, Mary Oliver has a way of stirring the mind toward infinity. I didn’t come across her work until later in life but when I encountered The Summer Day (in this book), printed on a wall of a secluded cabin in the woods near Mt. Shasta it was exactly what I needed to make the most of that reflective time in retreat.
The Order of Time by Carlo Rovelli
This book blew my mind and expanded or challenged all my notions of time. It’s a fun albeit wild ride. “Now” is a point in time as “here” is a point in space. We feel like on the edge of time but not on the edge of space. Curious! Rovelli illuminates that there are not really things but only events. A kiss is not a thing. A war is not a thing. These are events in time. The spiritual takeaway for me is the acceptance that life is not a thing but a process, a long event. If you listen on audible.com then you also get to enjoy the amazing narration by Benedict Cumberbatch!
Art of Peace by Morihei Ueshiba
This little book of spiritual wisdom contains the words and calligraphy of perhaps the greatest maritial arts master of Japan, Morihei Ueshiba, the founder of Aikido. Aikido means gate of love and is unique because the techniques of self-defense do not include ways to harm the enemy. The principles can be applied to personal growth and communication in relationships. This book may also be of special interest to those looking to cultivate a warrior mindset.
Secret Life of Plants by Peter Tompkins and others
Plants are amazing! Learn about the wild tale of Cleve Baxter and his experiments with polygraphs on his draconia plant. Are plants much more conscious than we realize? They can learn and store memories and have up to 26 senses and may even be able to sense our intentions. I think this book inspires one to appreciate all the subtle life around us more.
How To Change Your Mind by Michael Pollan
Building off the plant theme, this is a newer release from the brilliant writer Michael Pollan which beautifully summarizes the history and current state of research of psychedlics. The emerging evdience of the efficacy of psilocybin from mushrooms to treat PTSD and depression is very encouraging and enlightening. One way I conceptualize this is understanding that someone with crippling anxiety or depression is actually trapped in a bad trip. So it’s conceivable that psychotherapy with psychedelics could alter this in a very positive way and that is what the research is showing. It is especially hopeful for the thousands of war veterans still suffering from debilitating PTSD.
Rabia of Basra: Selected Poems by Rabia Al Basri
I love learning more about this this Sufi mystic and her devotion to spirituality. Poetry is such a powerful tool for contemplation. Her story and expressions of love transcend religion and faith but that is also the creative beauty of Sufism.
Autobiography of a Yogi by Paramahamsa Yogananda
This book is a profound look into the life of one of India’s greatest modern saints. I was drawn to it in a spiritual bookstore when I saw his image on the cover a little before my 25th birthday. It’s a little slow in the beginning but then takes off. It really inspired me further on my spiritual journey and I even had some metaphysical experiences while reading it. It directly led me to the practice of Kriya Yoga.
Siddhartha by Herman Hesse
A short read, Hesse’s fictional adventure takes you into the spiritual adventure of young Siddhartha. I was gifted this book in college and enjoyed it immensely. I re-read every so often. Siddhartha identifies one of his three core talents: “I can wait.” That really intrigued me.
The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho
The first book by Coelho also came to me in college. It is a fictional adventure about embracing one’s “personal legend.” After reading this, I really got into his other books, some which I enjoyed as much as this one including Warrior of the Light, Manuscript Found in Accra and Brida.
Peace Pilgrim
My guru in India first drew my attention to this book when I was 27 years old. It is about a truly courageous spiritual American woman. Strange that I had to travel all the way to India to learn about such a great moral hero of our country. She walked over 25,000 miles on foot for peace and shared her wisdom with those she encountered along the way. She reveals the way of listening and beautifully describes the process of evolving from self-centered life to a life centered in the good of the whole. This biography was compiled by friends of Peace Pilgrim in her own words.
What is Art? by Leo Tolstoy
Perhaps more geared toward creative types but really gets you thinking deeply about the meaning behind what we do. I confess that I’ve not read nor had much interest in his epic works but I find plenty of wisdom in his essays and short stories. I don’t always agree with his strict views but admire his moral strength and integrity.
Talks with Ramana Maharshi: On Realizing Abiding Peace and Happiness by Ramana Maharshi
This is perhaps the most influential mystical book of my life. It became the measuring stick with which to find a true spiritual guide. It is a compilation of questions and answers recorded by a devotee over multiple decades. It may be hard to understand philosophically at first but you may read little by little and contemplate. His wisdom of self-inquiry really cuts through all religious dogma.
The Prophet by Khalil Gibran
Such a beautiful poetic gift of loving understanding on how to live. It is the Lebanese mystic’s masterpiece. You can reference the topics like love, work, and friendship again and again and find a compass towards one’s true potential.
Unposted Letter by Mahatria Ra
A timely gift from one of my Indian friends, in 2016, was very comforting during a painful loss. It is a very practical spiritual book. It is a collection of short essays and so it is very easy to read. I suggest reading just one excerpt and trying to apply the wisdom to life or love or business.
Sapiens: A brief history of Humankind by Yuval Noah Harari
So grounded in rationality, it is scary. It can really bring balance to the mind entangled with religious beliefs. I read it more recently and understand why it’s an international bestseller. I have also listened to conversations with Yuval and his sincere practice of meditation has been a source of clarity in his writing.
Black Elk Speaks transcribed by John Neihardt
Such a fascinating and poignant glimpse into the life and plight of the Lakota people during the late 19th century and my introduction to Native American spirituality. It was a powerful exercise in radical empathy for me to read this account and try to absorb that history from the perspective of his indigenous people. It makes me sad to think that so much invaluable knowledge is likely lost due to the ruthless colonial expansion and development of the west. But at least this priceless gem is available to us.
Old Path, White Clouds by Thich Nhat Hanh
This book must have been such an undertaking but labor of love from the Vietnamese monk and Zen master Thich Nhat Hanh. 600 pages! It is a beautiful retelling of the life of Siddhartha Gautama who became the Buddha. It draws from dozens of sources and brings the story to life. Despite it’s length, I read the whole book in a short amount of time because it is so inspiring. I would like to read it again because it’s been a long time but it’s a good introduction to this legendary seeker and the philosophy known as Buddhism.
The Gift by Hafiz
This book of poetry of the great Sufi Mystic, Hafiz, was impressively translated by Daniel Ladinsky. There should be a scale called PQ (poetic intelligence) and another way to learn along with visual learning, hands on learning etc. I learn so much from mystic poetry, probably more than from non-fiction. These poems are especially inspiring for those who feel called to the spiritual search through devotion.
Man’s Search For Meaning by Viktor Frankl
This book really shook me. Viktor Frankl was a Jewish doctor and professor who survived 3 years at Auschwitz, Dachau, and other concentration camps. The juxtaposition of terror and grace is overwhelming but powerfully inspirational. His wisdom of resilience motivated by the choice of attitude as the last human freedom will give you so much perspective and strength to face your difficulties with courage.
I Ching translated by Brian Browne Walker
This is a beautiful translation of the ancient Chinese book of changes. It is not only a book but an oracle. Brian Browne Walker renders wonderfully applicable interpretations of the 64 hexagrams, guides to life’s turning points. There is so much wisdom here if you use with an open mind. My feeling about oracle is that life and the universe is always expressing itself. Tools like this simply open our mind and hearts to listen.
Be Here Now by Ram Dass
This book is as much visual art as it is literature. Ram Dass’ books about meeting his Guru, Neem Karoli Baba, and his expressions of surrender really made a difference in my seeking and oriented me towards similar experiences as a student in India. With this book, you can meditate on a single page and just let the mysticism sink in for the day.
The Art of Thinking Clearly by Rolf Dobelli
This is a smart read in the era of “post-truth.” The author has compiled a long list of patterned flaws in human thinking and gives excellent examples. It will help you study yourself and give you multiple lenses to investigate the nature of reality. A wise mind understands the balance between reason/logic and emotion/intuition.
The Manual by Epictetus
This is the best literary introduction and guide to the path of Stoicism and this translation by Sam Torode is timeless. Epictetus explains that philosophy is not just thinking but applied knowledge. It is a way of life. Stoicism is not just being tough and stuffing feelings, but rather the wisdom that destroys mental suffering. And Epictetus was no stranger to suffering. He grew up a slave and lived with a disability and walked with a crutch. He was brought to Rome and ultimately taught and greatly influenced the future emperor Marcus Aurelius.
The Tao of Health, Sex and Longevity by Daniel Reid
In my early twenties, I worked overnight full time at a psychiatric hospital. I had a lot of down time to read and this was one of the books I studied and applied. It helped me revolutionize the way I approached self-care and honoring the temple that is our body.
Loving and Leaving the Good Life by Helen Nearing
What a book! I would have never known of it if it wasn’t gifted to me on my birthday with a note “this is just one of those books.” Her husband Scott Nearing was the known as the fierce social reformer and radical but Helen is very powerful. The love, environmentalism, philosophy and practical spirituality of this couple is so thought-provoking. She describes her husband’s intentional departure from this life at 100 years old and the love and presence is unparalleled but reminds me of the cremation of the master by the student in the film “Why Has Bodhidharma Left for the East.”
Mind Body Code by Dr. Mario Martinez
I first heard Dr. Mario Martinez on the very progressive San Francisco local NPR radio and was blown away by his theory of Bio-cognition. I don’t think traditional psychotherapy is always enough for healing some forms of trauma and we need holistic mind body approaches to recalibrate our systems. He is insights and case studies in this book are also powerful tools for all of us on our healing and spiritual journey.
On Having No Head by Douglas Harding
This strange book about Zen by a Western mystic and writer moved me in unexpected ways. We never actually see our own head. Yes we can see its reflection in the mirror or a photograph of it, but never do we actually see it. We see other heads and assume they can see ours. It is interesting how much importance we give to our face even though we never see it. Furthermore, when two people are really attracted to each and want to be as physically close as possible, neither can see anyone’s head.
Tao Te Ching by Lao Tzu
I continue to read this treasure of Taoism again and again. It has been translated into English more than any other Chinese document. It contains 81 short verses of profound and practical spiritual wisdom. Not all translations do justice to the original message. The book that is linked is by far the best version I have found and it doesn’t even tell who translated it. This version is often out of print, so I would suggest to purchase if available and interested.
Chuang Tzu translated by Thomas Merton
Another classic of Taoism. There are different translations but I do like this one and it also takes you into the mind of Merton a bit. Another version that is really wonderful is called The Tao of Happiness by Derek Lee. Chuang Tzu was a philosopher-sage and the book includes many stories of the wonders and mysteries and humor of The Tao. Many of these ancient tales are still very relevant to modern life.
The Book: On the Taboo of Knowing Who You Are by Alan Watts
He called himself a spiritual entertainer and few can compare to the oratory and written ability to present esoteric concepts in such a fun, brilliant manner. The scope of insight and how much he must have read and studied seems like it would have required multiple lifetimes. Likely, you have listened to lectures online but it is also worth reading this book.
On the Road by Jack Kerouac
I have just recently returned to this book and all its fast-paced, stream-of-consciousness beat flow. As wild as he was, the emphasis on the primacy of discovering meaning in every experience is quite profound. The aliveness oozes out of the book and even if you struggle to keep up, you can simply read a paragraph and contemplate. He has an incredible way of making the most unexpected pairings of words fit so well together.