A Unified Theory of Happiness
An East-Meets-West Approach to Fully Loving Your Life
Synopsis: A comprehensive guide to cultivating happiness based on time-tested wisdom and the latest science–combining Eastern and Western thought.
Shortlink to this presskit: http://wp.me/P64an-NX
Andrea Polard, PsyD
May 1, 2012
Hardcover Book / BK02533
ISBN: 978-1-60407-788-9 / ISBN-10: 1-60407-788-3
UPC: 600835-253321
US $ 24.95
Rights: World
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About the Book
When it comes to finding happiness, the East says, “Stop!” while the West says, “Go!” It turns out they’re both right. In A Unified Theory of Happiness, Dr. Andrea Polard marries the can-do drive to achieve with the simple presence of mindful awareness to usher in a new evolution in the way each of us approaches happiness. After our survival needs are met, we can choose to take the path of happiness and learn the skills to stay on that path, teaches Dr. Polard. A Unified Theory of Happiness beautifully synthesizes a 20-year study of Eastern contemplative wisdom and the latest from Western science to illuminate:
• How to navigate the active “Basic Mode” and the non-active “Supreme Mode” of consciousness to respond to life’s complexities with flexibility
• Ambition, competence, confidence, connection—tools for building an engaging “self” that can create an energetic flow
• Receptivity, tranquility, reliance, lightheartedness—paths for realizing “no-self,” our natural connection with the flow of life
• The Theory of Elastic Consciousness—a balanced place in perfect accord with the whole of life
At last, here is a work that provides a comprehensive understanding of happiness that honors the full spectrum of life’s offerings even as it broadens our experience of its inherent joy.
About the Author
Andrea F. Polard, PsyD, is a German-born author and clinical psychologist with an extensive background in psychodynamic therapies, meditation, and Ericksonian mind-body work. Now practicing what she calls “Zen Psychology” in the Los Angeles area, she continues her mission to reduce suffering and promote happiness for individuals wherever they may be.
What People are Saying
Praise for A Unified Theory of Happiness
“A Unified Theory of Happiness is an engaging, warm-hearted, and essential book for anyone looking for sincere ways to find inner peace in modern times. Practical and well-written, it shares specific skills that make happiness much less elusive and much more possible, so that we can address the real-life difficulties we all face balancing our pursuits with serenity.”— Hope Edelman, author of Motherless Daughters and The Possibility of Everything
“A major contribution to the fields of positive and transpersonal psychology.” —Ronald A. Alexander, PhD, author of Wise Mind, Open Mind
“A thought-provoking study of Eastern and Western ideas of happiness showing faith in whole-hearted living and packed with the lived experience of many characters who have had notable lives. Polard’s book, backed with research that carefully examines the being-doing dichotomy, not only shows how each dimension has a vital part in the progress of an awakened life but also provides much useful advice on how to make it so.” —David Brazier, author of Zen Therapy and The Feeling Buddha
