Understanding the Mind: An Explanation of the Nature and Functions of the Mind - Softcover

Gyatso, Geshe Kelsang

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0948006250 ISBN 13: 9780948006258

Publisher: Tharpa Publications, 1992

Synopsis

What is the mind and how does it work?; which types of mind lead to joy and freedom, and which do not?; how can an understanding of our mind be applied to our everyday life? This book provides a practical explanation of the mind in a combination of profound philosophical exploration and practical psychology. Part 1 of the book explains what the mind is and how it works. Contrary to the modern materialistic view, Buddhist psychology is based on an understanding of the mind as a formless continuum that is related to yet separate from the physical body. Through understanding the nature of the mind and the process of cognition, we can attain a lasting state of inner peace and happiness that is independent of internal circumstances. In part 2 the many types of mind are explained from the standpoint of those that are virtuous and lead to joy and freedom, and those that are non-virtuous and are therefore to be abandoned. Throughout the book Geshe Kelsang shows how this understanding of the mindcan be applied in transforming all life situations into a dynamic spiritual path. Geshe Kelsang Gyatso was born in Tibet and is a fully accomplished meditation Master and Spiritual Guide. Resident in England since 1977, he is the author of a number of acclaimed books which bridge the ancient wisdom of the Buddhist faith with contemporary life. He has also founded many Buddhist centres throughout the world.

About this title

About the Author

Geshe Kelsang Gyatso was born in Tibet and is a fully accomplished meditation master and internationally renowned teacher of Buddhism. Living in the West since 1977, he is the author of a series of highly acclaimed books that transmit perfectly the ancient wisdom of Buddhism to our contemporary life. He has also founded over 300 Centres throughout the world for the study and practice of Mahayana Buddhism.

Review

Understanding The Mind is an explanation of the nature and functions of the mind from a Buddhist perspective. Part One explains how Buddhist psychology is based on an understanding of the mind as a formless continuum that is related to, yet separate from, the physical body. Through understanding the nature of the mind and the process of cognition we can attain a lasting state of inner peace and happiness that is independent of external circumstances. Part Two explains the many types of mind and shows how we can abandon those that harm us, while increasing those that lead to personal joy and fulfilment. Thought, Geshe Kelsang skillfully shows how we can apply our understanding of our mind to improve our daily life. -- Midwest Book Review

Edition details

• Publisher: Tharpa Publications
• Publication date: 1992
• ISBN 10: 0948006250
• ISBN 13: 9780948006258
• Binding: Paperback
• Language: English
• Number of pages: 320