I have browsed a few of this author's books, and most of the time, his 'books' remind me of infographic primers where the least minimum of info is condensed. Thank goodness it was NOT the case this time!

Loved how the author chose to go deep/er into his experience in Nepal and not only how this changed his life, but also why. The first 10% itself, with the advice it provides, could have stood alone as the best advice given to anyone who's been going into the realm of consciousness and finding themselves out in meditation and stillness.

The book then builds onto this concept, delivering a profoundly moving and life-changing roadmap if one were to follow the advice and use it to find their own way and own path in the world. 

- netgalley reviewer

In this expanded 2nd edition, the author, who is a qualified psychiatrist, offers his experiences and concepts on ways to cope with a number of stressful conditions. His views are informed by his experience and training in Nepalese meditation practices.

The book is constructed in sections so that reader may go to find information and ideas on coping with some specific situations. He illustrates his concepts through case examples from his own practice.

As I licensed psychotherapist, I do agree with the author that those coming from most Western cultures often find meditation difficult or ineffective because they are not able to focus their minds sufficiently for meditation to be effective.

Methods for preparing the mind to accept mindfulness and meditation practices are offered here. The practices outlined here are not necessarily simple or quick; they require an ongoing commitment of time and effort and considerable self-discipline.

In my opinion, many of these practice ideas might be ineffective or contraindicated for persons with certain psychological conditions. For that reason, I cannot recommend this book as a self-help manual. As the author says, it is best used in conjunction with ongoing supervision from a licensed mental health professional.

My thanks to author, publisher and NetGalley for providing an advance copy to read and review.

 - Netgalley Reviewer

A highly informative guide to happiness that is full of fascinating theology and practical tips... A must read!

In this engrossing reflection on the happy state of mind, board-certified Psychiatrist Altshuler uses the Tibetan and Nepalese philosophy (of meditation and praying as a power to transform one's mind) as a guide for attaining happiness.

Exploring his personal journey, which narrates his years of misdiagnosis and sufferings and gradual recovery with regular meditation and a balanced diet,

Altshuler asserts that Tibetan and Nepalese concept of transformation of mind through meditation and praying when combined with a balanced diet can be real antidote to the anxieties, fears, and general confusions that beset a person's mental and physical wellness. He analyzes the connection between biochemistry of brain and a person's ability to stay happy, demonstrating that the meditation on a daily basis encourages positivity, clarity, and concentration and have a transformative effect on one's mind.

He discusses several techniques of mediations throughout the narrative and asserts that by engaging with a particular meditation practice, a person can achieve a profoundly calm and energized state of mind leading to a new understanding of life and the ability to stay perpetually happy.

He puts emphasis on taking holistic approaches to treatment of depression, anxiety, insomnia, and dementia and offers a list of practices (relaxation method, the box, mirror method, and common sense as a therapy).

Altshuler also discusses direct relation between increase of insulin level and onset of metabolic syndrome, a link between psychological stress and obesity, positive effects of a balanced diet, Nepalese meditation techniques of losing weight along with the role of intuition in a person's mental wellbeing and trashing of negative entities.

Besides the thoughtful Buddhist theology, Altshuler offers practical suggestions for how readers can learn proper techniques of meditation and modify their diet according to their physical symptoms.

The book is divided into several sections, and each section is complete in itself, making the book a valuable resource guide for a person's psychological wellbeing. Altshuler's writing is highly accessible, the pacing smooth, and the narrative engrossing.

By following the Tibetan and Nepalese concepts and sharing his own journey and professional experience as a psychiatrist, Altshuler makes the concept of transformation of mind with meditation and praying accessible to all his readers.

This reflective guide of attaining true happiness by following holistic techniques is highly worthwhile for any reader. A keeper that should find its way easily on both readers and non-readers' shelves.

PRAIRIES BOOK REVIEW