The Tibetan Art of Positive Thinking: Skillful Thought for Successful Living

Norman Vincent Peale goes to Tibet in this self-help manual based on Bön, the little-known indigenous religion of Tibet that predates Buddhism. Since he was a child, Hansard trained in the spiritual and medical traditions of Bön, and now runs a London clinic where he treats celebrities and commoners with the principles of this ancient wisdom. The first two chapters lay out key ideas and theory before moving to the areas where people commonly experience problems: work, money, relationships, health. The book is long on simple exercises, using concentration and ritual practice to resolve problems. As such, it offers help for particular issues: what to do about bullies, stress and overwork, for example. Some ideas are unique to Bön: a close relationship with another forms a "third person" that needs nurturing in order to foster that relationship. Others are self-help staples: visualize, let your energy flow. The real-life examples—such as a woman who began to treat herself lovingly and was vibrant and joyful six months later—are well-intentioned but unconvincing. Those familiar with Buddhism will find special value in exposure to the religious tradition on which some of the unique forms of Tibetan Buddhism are based. But all can benefit from this problem-solving manual that cultivates concentration and compassion. (Aug. 2)