Untangled: Walking the Eightfold Path to Clarity, Courage, and Compassion

Even though we live in a world that is more connected than ever before, many people still feel lonely and isolated. To address this, we may turn to unhealthy distractions in an attempt to find connection, but this only exacerbates the problem. Untangled is a guidebook that teaches readers how to find true pleasure and meaningful connection through the eightfold path of Buddhism, which combines teachings from Eastern and Western wisdom traditions. By following these roads, readers can transform their lives and experience true joy.

Format: Hardback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 08 December 2022
Publisher: Little, Brown & Company

Though we are seemingly more connected to our world than ever before, many of us cannot ignore a nagging sense of loneliness and isolation. To keep this anxiety and discontentment at bay, we can search for connection through unhealthy distractions, believing these will bring us true nourishment. And yet, loneliness is on the rise, exacting detrimental effects on our mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual wellbeing. Even those of us who have succeeded in the ways that society applauds, often feel unanchored, disengaged, and purposeless. If true pleasure is what we desire, how do we look past the surface, to discover a life filled with meaningful connection and genuine relationships?

Untangled is a welcoming guidebook to finding expansive ease and true joy through what is traditionally called the eightfold path, one of Buddhism's foundational teachings. Psychotherapist and Zen teacher Koshin Paley Ellison compassionately walks readers down these eight roads, leading them on a path of transformation and to experience true joy. Combining teachings from both Eastern and Western wisdom traditions, Paley Ellison equips readers with the tools needed to untangle our tangles and make profound change, inside and out. Infused with Paley Ellison's own anecdotes of his life as a young gay kid facing abuse and discrimination, this approachable guide will help you transform your ever-day interactions, your most intimate relationships, and offers a path for social healing. It is an ancient cure that is up to the challenge of healing the modern dysfunction of our times.

Loneliness is a complex and pervasive issue that affects individuals from all walks of life. While technology has connected us in unprecedented ways, it has also created a sense of isolation and disconnection. We often seek validation and connection through superficial relationships, such as social media and online dating, but these connections often feel shallow and unsatisfying.

The root cause of loneliness is often a lack of meaningful relationships and a sense of belonging. We crave intimacy and connection with others, but our busy schedules and societal pressures can make it difficult to establish and maintain these connections. Additionally, we may struggle with self-esteem issues, anxiety, or depression, which can further isolate us from others.

To address loneliness, we need to prioritize building genuine relationships with others. This can involve taking the time to get to know people, showing empathy and compassion, and being open to vulnerability. It can also involve seeking support from mental health professionals or joining support groups to connect with others who are experiencing similar challenges.

In addition to building relationships, we can also find joy and fulfillment in our own lives. This can involve pursuing hobbies and interests, practicing mindfulness and meditation, or engaging in self-care activities. By focusing on our own well-being, we can become more resilient and better equipped to handle the challenges of loneliness.

Ultimately, loneliness is a complex issue that requires a multifaceted approach. By building meaningful relationships, prioritizing self-care, and seeking support, we can find solace and joy in our lives, even in the face of isolation and disconnection.

Dimension: 210 x 140 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781538708309