Member Reviews
A book where Eastern philosophies have been tweaked and tailored for the Western outlook. A guidebook to self transformation and reflection.
I spent some time sitting with this one, trying to absorb and incorporate the lessons in this thoroughly researched guide to personal evolution. Not everyone is up for this (or even interested in it) but for the target audience, this book will be revelatory and inspiring.
The author investigates a variety of practices and philosophies across different cultures and contexts, in hopes of gently guiding us toward true wisdom. And what is true wisdom? In this case, it represents a meaningful framework for considering our experiences and perspectives on our world, our society, and how we belong to both. It gives us the opportunity to view our experiences, with positive and negative, as milestones on a journey, opportunities to learn and grow and come out the other side better and more connected to the world around us. I'm so glad I got to read this and I know I will come back to it again and again in my journey.
I appreciate NetGalley and the publisher for access to a digital ARC. My honest review is my own opinion.
I received an ARC from Netgalley
Mónica Esgueva explores The 7 Levels of Wisdom in her book, discussing stages of human development, mindfulness, meditation, and the difference between religion and spirituality. She encourages readers to make their own choices and view the world with sharper eyes, offering a framework for personal growth and transformation. Handy book to own
Thanks to Netgalley, the publishers and Mónica Esgueva. Unfortunately, I just couldn't get into it. The introduction sort of through me off, and I wasn't really engaged or interested in reading anymore. DNF around 30 pages.
I was interested in reading this as it states in the blurb that it “offers the richness of Eastern philosophies tailored for the Western mind” which is something I’m interested in.
My personal opinion is that Western culture has become too reliant on capitalism and we could benefit from living our lives more spiritually. Unfortunately I didn’t make it past the introduction. There was far too much ‘conspiracy theory’ for me which really isn’t the way to try and get people to think differently. This is a shame as there may be some valuable insights in this book but i just can’t get past the preachy tone of the introduction.
What is your place in the world, spiritually? The world is full of so much that is unspiritual, that keeps us from being happy and connected with the universe.
In this book, the author goes through life conditions and what we can do to grow. There are big general things, like volunteering, and smaller exercises, like specific exercises where you can answer questions or learn to meditate.
There is a small section about people who basically gave up the materialistic world and chose a life of spirituality.
Overall, a book with great advice if you're struggling with why you're not happy.
Thanks to NetGalley for letting me read this