Heart, Self, & Soul: The Sufi Approach to Growth, Balance, and Harmony: The Sufi Psychology of Growth, Balance, and Harmony - Softcover

The first book by a Western psychologist to explore the rich spiritual tradition of Sufism as a path for personal growth. Western psychology aims largely to help us eliminate neurotic traits formed in childhood and adapt to society. In contrast, the Sufi goal is ultimately spiritual. Yes, we need to transform our negativity and be effective in the world; but beyond that, we need to reach a state of harmony with the Divine. Full of stories, poetry, meditations, journaling exercises and colorful everyday examples, this book will open the heart, nourish the self, and quicken the soul. "Wise and profound! Robert Frager is uniquely qualified to bring the ancient wisdom of Sufism to the modern study of psychology. He unites both in a compelling fashion and succeeds admirably in presenting a Sufi psychology for today's world."--Ken Wilber, author of "The Spectrum of Consciousness," "The Atman Project," "A Brief History of Everything, and other books. "An extremely accessible and effective book by a great American teacher. Frager's blend of stories, practices, and loving kindness captures the elusive nature of real Sufi teaching. A delight for the curious seeker and a companion to anyone seriously on any spiritual path."--James Fadiman, Ph.D., coeditor of "Essential Sufism" and author of "Unlimit Your Life."

Robert Frager, Ph.D., received his doctorate in social psychology from Harvard University in 1967. In 1975, he founded the Institute of Transpersonal Psychology in Palo Alto, where he is currently Professor of Psychology and Director of the Spiritual Guidance Masters Program. Before founding the Institute, Frager taught psychology and religious studies for seven years at University of California Berkeley and University of California Santa Cruz. In 1985, Frager was ordained as a sheikh, or spiritual guide, in the Sufi mystical tradition. He is now the president of the Jerrahi Order of California and has been a Sufi spiritual guide for over 25 years. Frager has written three books on Sufism: Essential Sufism, Love is the Wine: Teachings of a Sufi Master in America and Heart, Self, and Soul: The Sufi Psychology of Growth, Balance, and Harmony. He is the editor of Sharing Sacred Stories: Current Approaches to Spiritual Direction and Guidance. A personal student of the founder of Aikido, Frager trained in the art in Japan and holds a 7th degree black belt?the highest honor ever awarded to a westerner. He has been an instructor in Aikido for over 45 years. Frager is also a transpersonal psychologist, consultant, and educator. He currently resides in Northern California.