Overview

"Active Mind/Receptive Mind: The Journey of Mindfulness is designed to provide readers with a comprehensive introduction to mindfulness and its relationship to constructive action. It also provides readers with a systematic comparison between Eastern and Western models of mindfulness and in-depth instructions for ""holding"" and transcending negative psychological states. The book serves as a resource for academics, psychotherapists, and for those who would like to explore the benefits of mindful self-exploration."

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9781912698127

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Reviews

Mindfulness is a term so widely used these days that it sometimes seem to teeter on the brink of meaninglessness. Fortunately we have John Monopoli's book to guide us to clarity. He begins by examining the difference between the 'Active Mind' and the 'Receptive Mind', and he does this through the lens of Buddhist teachings. Luckily he explains this in straightforward and easy to assimilate sections, writing clearly and with admirable precision so that the reader is not left bemused. Put simply, the Active Mind is what we in the West tend to value most highly - the ability to see, categorize and come to judgments as we navigate our world. The Receptive Mind, in contrast, is seen as the Buddhist notion of not judging, of simply being open to the experience. The problem is that the rush to judgment characteristic of the Active Mind tends to distort what we think we know - since we all have prejudices, biases and fears that shape what we think is going on. And this can lead to psychological distortions and mental distress. Monopoli suggests that the way forwards is to employ both Active and Receptive thinking, treading a middle path and using meditation to help us detach from the pain of what we think is happening. In the process we may find that the story we tell ourselves about what is going on, and who we are, is simply not accurate. This, then, becomes the core of healing therapies. Monopoli has navigated an immense amount of research (Maslow, Fromm, Perls, Deikman, Herrigel, Hayes, Hahn and many others all make appearances), but at no point does the reader feel overwhelmed with this learning. He wears it lightly and guides us through it without ever getting bogged down. It's a fascinating and valuable book, and speaks gently and eloquently to the reader of what we can all do to dismantle our 'mind forged manacles', and move closer to real happiness. -Dr. Allan G. Hunter, author of The Path of Synchronicity

Author Information

Dr. Monopoli, a licensed psychologist for 33 years, treats individuals using a combination of Mindfulness psychotherapy, meditation, hypnotherapy and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy. He believes that a clear, focused, relaxed and lucid mind is the best instrument for self-discovery, the resolution of personal difficulties, and the identification of a personal life path. He enjoys working with a wide range of individuals, especially young adults and those seeking answers in their spiritual and philosophical paths. His areas of expertise include the treatment of depression, anxiety, stress and a range of life issues using meditative techniques and guided self-analysis.

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