Awareness Is Freedom: The Adventure of Psychology and Spirituality

Awareness is Freedom provides a clear and practical course in spiritual training. It's an ideal introduction that quickly takes the reader from the shallows to the depths. Save yourself the trouble of learning Sanskrit, Pali or Tibetan in order to read the ancient sutras. Instead, I would advise you start your journey with this illuminating and accessible book. I wish I had had the opportunity to read it years ago before I wandered off to the East. Tim Ward, author of What the Buddha Never Taught: A 'Behind the Robes' Account of life in a Thai Forest Monastery. Itai Ivtzan elucidates not only the meeting point between psychology and spirituality but the synergy and power of the two. Allow this accomplished scholar and meditator to offer you this clear road-map as you take this journey to your indwelling. This important book, peppered with research studies, validated psychological tests, and practical exercises, offers clear and insightful methods for you to re-discover your mindfulness and hence - your freedom. Ryan M. Niemiec, author of Mindfulness and Character Strengths: A Practical Guide to Flourishing. Dr Ivtzan has done a great service to humanity with this beautiful book. Here we have two of our most precious currents of thought, psychology and spirituality, each of which has transformed people's lives for the better, but which until now have remained wary of each other. However, with great skill and artistry, Dr. Ivtzan has brought these together in a 'marriage,' a union which serves to greatly enrich both partners. Moreover, Dr Ivtzan is just the kind of wise and compassionate pastor that we need to skillfully conduct such a union, with his great depths of insight and beauty of expression. However, the most important beneficiary of this 'marriage' is the reader, who is invited to embark upon their own personal journal of transformation. Through a series of 'lessons,' including structured reflections and exercises, the fortunate reader is led gently down a path of mystery, towards realms of the self and of the universe that they may not have suspected existed. Truly, this book has the power to change your life. Tim Lomas, author of Masculinity, Meditation and Mental Health Itai Ivtzan draws on his vast amount of personal and professional knowledge to give readers insight into a very powerful topic area in an incredibly approachable way. Ivtzan is indeed a pioneer and leader in the field and his humour, wisdom and creativity will challenge readers, in so many ways. The book is engaging, stimulating and thought provoking as Ivtzan passionately melds theory with personal exercises and reflection sections. Kata Hefferon, Author of Positive Psychology and the Body: The somatopsychic side to flourishing